BMW 6 Series GT review

Despite looking much like the old BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo, the new 6 GT is a far more accomplished car. Supposedly mixing the space and tech of a 7 Series with the dynamic grace of a 5 Series, the 6 GT should be the perfect compromise, but in reality it’s not as appealing. It feels suitably luxurious, and space in the back is very impressive, but it still feels a little lardy on the road. Its heavy-handed styling and bulky rear-end means it’s not ideally suited to European tastes, and will remain a bit of a niche offering here.

The 6 GT badge was brand-new for 2017. Despite looking much like the old BMW 5 GT, the new car is actually based on the larger 7 Series. BMW has seen huge success from its supposedly ‘niche’ models – especially ones like the X4 and X6 – and as a result has chosen to funnel funds at its large executive hatchback.

Rather than turn its back on the slow-selling 5 GT, BMW reinvented it as a 6 Series variant. Said to offer the space and tech of a 7 Series but with the handling prowess of the smaller 5 Series, the 6 GT should offer the best of both world. In reality, it doesn’t quite work. 

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Available in just one bodystyle (even the standard 6 Series Coupe and Convertible will use the 8 Series badge in 2018), the 6 GT is a five-seat executive hatchback with little in the way of direct rivals. BMW may mention models like the Audi A7 and Mercedes CLS, but their sleek shapes offer quite different propositions.

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The engine line-up is a bit limited, too, with only three options at launch. The entry-level 630i GT gets a four-cylinder turbo petrol motor, while the flagship six-cylinder cars are badged 630d and 640i. We’ve not driven the most basic model yet, and every car we’ve tried has been in M Sport spec. An SE is also available. All cars use an eight-speed Sport Automatic gearbox, while xDrive all-wheel drive is optional on the 30d. It’s standard on the 40i.