The BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo (G32) 640i Steptronic, produced from 2017 to 2020, represents BMW’s attempt to blend the luxury and performance of the 6 Series coupe with the practicality of a hatchback. Positioned as a premium grand tourer, the 640i variant occupied a middle ground within the G32 lineup, offering a balance between performance and efficiency compared to the range-topping 650i. It was primarily marketed towards buyers seeking a comfortable, spacious, and capable vehicle for long-distance travel, with a focus on refined driving dynamics. The G32 Gran Turismo aimed to carve out a niche for itself, competing with vehicles like the Audi A7 Sportback and Porsche Panamera.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 6 Series |
| Generation | 6 Series Gran Turismo (G32) |
| Type (Engine) | 640i (340 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Grand Tourer |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.6-9.8 l/100 km (24.5 – 24 US mpg, 29.4 – 28.8 UK mpg, 10.4 – 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.4-6.0 l/100 km (43.6 – 39.2 US mpg, 52.3 – 47.1 UK mpg, 18.5 – 16.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.0-7.4 l/100 km (33.6 – 31.8 US mpg, 40.4 – 38.2 UK mpg, 14.3 – 13.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 159-169 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.2 kg/Hp, 192.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm, 254.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 340 Hp @ 5500-6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 113.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 450 Nm @ 1380-5200 rpm (331.9 lb.-ft. @ 1380-5200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | B58B30C |
| Engine displacement | 2998 cm3 (182.95 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 94.6 mm (3.72 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.5 l (11.1 US qt | 9.24 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1770 kg (3902.18 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2450 kg (5401.33 lbs.) |
| Max load | 680 kg (1499.14 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 610 l (21.54 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1800 l (63.57 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 68 l (17.96 US gal | 14.96 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 5091 mm (200.43 in.) |
| Width | 1902 mm (74.88 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2158 mm (84.96 in.) |
| Height | 1538 mm (60.55 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3070 mm (120.87 in.) |
| Front track | 1615 mm (63.58 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1649 mm (64.92 in.) |
| Front overhang | 871 mm (34.29 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1150 mm (45.28 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 138 mm (5.43 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.26 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.3 m (40.35 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Steptronic |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/60 R17; 245/50 R18; 245/45 R19; 275/40 R19; 245/40 R20; 275/35 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18; 8.5J x 19; 9.5J x 19; 8.5J x 20; 10J x 20 |
INTRODUCTION
The BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo 640i Steptronic, launched in 2017, was a significant departure from the traditional 6 Series formula. Instead of a coupe or convertible, BMW opted for a five-door, hatchback-style “Gran Turismo” body. Built on the G32 platform, which shared components with the 7 Series, the 640i aimed to provide a more practical and spacious alternative to its more sporting siblings. The G32 replaced the previous 5 Series Gran Turismo (F07) and represented a more premium and refined offering. The 640i, powered by the B58 engine, was positioned as a sweet spot in the range, offering strong performance without the higher price tag of the 650i.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 640i lies BMW’s B58B30C 3.0-liter inline-six engine. This engine is a member of BMW’s modular engine family and features a single twin-scroll turbocharger, direct fuel injection, and Double-VANOS variable valve timing. The B58 is known for its smooth power delivery and responsiveness. The engine produces 340 horsepower at 5500-6500 rpm and 450 Nm (331.9 lb-ft) of torque between 1380 and 5200 rpm. This power is channeled through an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission, which offers both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles. The transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, providing quick and smooth shifts. The engine’s longitudinal layout contributes to balanced weight distribution.
Driving Characteristics
The 640i Steptronic delivers a refined and comfortable driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the 6 Series coupe, it offers ample power for effortless cruising and confident overtaking. The eight-speed automatic transmission is a key contributor to the smooth driving experience, selecting the appropriate gear for any given situation. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 5.1 seconds. The Gran Turismo’s longer wheelbase and sophisticated suspension setup contribute to a comfortable ride, even on less-than-perfect road surfaces. Compared to the 650i, the 640i feels slightly less urgent in its acceleration, but the difference is not dramatic. The automatic transmission, while efficient, can sometimes feel a bit hesitant when downshifting for quick bursts of acceleration compared to a manual gearbox.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 640i Gran Turismo came standard with a generous array of features, including leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium sound system. BMW’s iDrive infotainment system with a 10.25-inch touchscreen display was also standard, offering navigation, connectivity, and vehicle settings control. Optional extras included adaptive cruise control, a head-up display, ventilated front seats, and a rear-seat entertainment system. Interior trim options ranged from fine wood veneers to aluminum accents. The rear seats offered ample legroom and headroom, making the 640i a comfortable choice for passengers.
Chassis & Braking
The G32 Gran Turismo features a double-wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling precision. The 640i typically came equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) were standard safety features. The steering is electrically assisted, offering precise and responsive control. The Gran Turismo’s relatively long wheelbase contributes to its stability at highway speeds.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 6 Series Gran Turismo, including the 640i variant, received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and refined powertrain, some critics found the styling somewhat awkward and the overall driving experience less engaging than that of the 6 Series coupe. Compared to the 650i, the 640i offered a more affordable entry point into the Gran Turismo range, with comparable levels of luxury and technology. Fuel economy was generally considered good for a vehicle of its size and performance, with combined figures ranging from 31.8 to 33.6 US mpg. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with the B58 engine proving to be a robust and dependable unit.
Legacy
The BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo was discontinued in 2020, replaced by the 8 Series Gran Coupe. However, the 640i variant remains a desirable option in the used car market. The B58 engine’s reputation for reliability and performance ensures that these vehicles continue to hold their value. The 640i’s spacious interior and comfortable ride make it a practical choice for families and long-distance travelers. While it may not be as focused on outright performance as some of its rivals, the 640i Gran Turismo offers a unique blend of luxury, practicality, and refinement.
