2018 BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe

Pros: High-end interior trimmings; invigorating performance, especially with 650 models, Alpina, and M6; convenience of four doors

Cons: Cramped rear-seat room; high-performance models ride somewhat stiffly; low seating position compromises visibility somewhat

CG Says: The 2018 BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe is not really a coupe, but it’s a 4-door sedan with a coupe-like roofline. Also in BMW’s 6-Series line are a convertible (see separate review) and a 4-door hatchback dubbed Gran Tourismo (see separate review). The base 640i has a 315-horsepower turbocharged 3.0-liter 6-cylinder, while the 650i is powered by a 445-horsepower turbocharged 4.4-liter V8. Both are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and offer available all-wheel drive. The M6 packs a 552-hp turbo 4.4-liter V8 and the Alpina B6 has a 600-hp version of that engine. The rear-wheel-drive M6 offers a choice of 6-speed manual or 7-speed automated-manual transmissions, while the all-wheel-drive Alpina has an 8-speed automatic. The premium midsize 6-Series Gran Coupe effectively fills the niche between BMW’s 5 Series and 7 Series sedans. The high-performance M6 and Alpina models take the all-around athleticism even higher, but, like all 6-Series cars, their sheer size and heft means they’re not as agile as some of their smaller, lighter competitors. The prices are high, but these are attractive, well-finished cars with bracing performance.