At the other end of the spectrum, BMW is planning the return of the number 6, a figure that embodied grand touring over a decade ago. The new 6 will be spun off the next-generation 5 Series (E60) platform, but it will more be than a mere two-door 5. Designated E63 internally, the coupe will benefit from hardware and manufacturing synergies, but push its own style boundaries even further than the 5's reported dynamic design. The 6 Series will showcase modern, progressive styling with a flat nose, protruding wheel arches, and a steeply raked windshield that flows gracefully from the hood into the curved roofline.

BMW prepared the world for this design direction with the gullwinged Z9 show car, and introduced new technology, such as iDrive. A key element to the concept car was the innovative approach to simplifying controls, with a rotary-push knob on the center console communicating with a high-mounted color display. Interior features a 2+2 seat layout with emphasis on personal luxury. Expect a full complement of infotainment, safety, and comfort features (including iDrive) pioneered on the new 7 Series to be shared with this flagship coupe.

The exclusively eight-cylinder powertrains will be shared with the 5, including a rumored tuned V-8 producing upwards of 450 horsepower for the anticipated M6. Transmission choices may include six-speed manual and six-speed Steptronic transmissions, with the M car to receive the six-speed sequential manual gearbox debuting on the 2002 M3. Suspension will likely retain a familiar MacPherson strut front/multilink rear setup with weight-saving aluminum componentry.

Within a year of marketing the premium 6 coupe, a convertible version (E64) will reach showrooms continuing BMW's ambitious new product rollout.

Motor Trend, April 2001

Spyshot of BMW 6 Series on road trials.