BMW just launched its all-new 640i Gran Coupe, a model designed to compete with Audi's A7, Mercedes' CLS550 and Porsche's Panamera in the sleek, four-door "coupe" market. The BMW is clearly a looker with its low, sweeping shape. It's almost identical to the 6-series coupe from the front. The questions remains, though, is the BMW 640i Gran Coupe a car worthy of BMW's Ultimate Driving Machine motto?
Unfortunately, it appears BMW missed the mark on the driving and pricing of the 640i Gran Coupe. "The steering is light and direct, albeit a bit numb, and the adjustable suspension can be tailored for highway comfort or canyon-road firmness. But while it's an easy and impressive car to hustle through the curves, the GC falters a bit in terms of driver engagement. In other words, the style and luxury outweigh the sport. It's so good at trying to be the ultimate four-door coupe that it misses the bull's-eye for being the ultimate driving machine."
"The 640i Gran Coupe starts at $76,895, which is considerably more than the A7 ($60,125) and about the same as the CLS ($72,175) and Panamera V-6 ($76,825). Problem for the GC, though, is that the A7 and CLS are quicker, and the Panamera is more engaging and dynamically capable. Moreover, our well-equipped tester exited the checkout line at $99,645. Ouch. The last CLS550 we tested -- with a 402-hp twin-turbo V-8, mind you -- totaled just over 80 large. Value, it appears, is not the Gran Coupe's strong suit. Want a GC with a V-8? This fall BMW will offer a 445-hp 650i Gran Coupe, but it will cost you back some $87,395 to start."
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