BMW has just released the 6 Series Coupe Concept, a model that is scheduled to be unveiled at the Paris Auto Show and is believed to enter production in 2011. The refined styling, first shown on the four-door Grand Coupe concept in April at the Beijing motor show, provides the new 6-series with clear visual links to other recent BMW models.
The concept’s focus is very much on providing a premium, luxurious feel to the new car, with features such as full LED headlights for the first time, imposing L-shaped taillights (also LED) and a full-length glass roof to allow plenty of light into the opulent cabin. There are no details on the engines to power the new BMW model, but voices are suggesting that a 4.4-liter V8 configuration that would develop around 395 horsepower and 609 Nm of torque is under consideration and has the biggest chances to make it to the 6 Series.
Inside, a cacophony of different materials and textures are on show, from piano-black panels to two-tone leather and generous wood in-fill panels, many of which are framed by elegant silver trim. Atop the dash sits a huge 10.2-inch widescreen display, used for the first time in conjunction with the latest generation iDrive system. The technology doesn’t stop there either, with a head-up display, 16-speaker Bang & Olufsen stereo system, and a ‘black panel’ instrument display generating the dash information and dials electronically.
The sound system integrates the clean Danish design of Bang & Olufsen with BMW’s dynamic three-dimensional style and complements beautifully the interior of the BMW 6 Series Concept car. The B&O High-End Surround Sound System fitted in the BMW coupé comprises of 16 loudspeakers. The tweeter and mid-range drivers sit at the center of the dashboard while four pairs of tweeter and mid-range drivers are located by each seat. There are two additional pairs behind the rear seats. The two subwoofers under the front seats help to produce an even base performance throughout the whole cabin.
The B&O Acoustic Lens Technology (ALT) is responsible for maximizing the sound stage in front of the unit. The 16 loudspeakers are covered with solid aluminum grilles that beautifully complement the lush interiors of this car. The grilles are finished in anodized ‘Perl Glanz’ color, sport a laser-engraved Bang & Olufsen logo, and appear to float above the interior surface.