Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid Version 2.0

Porsche has announced that they will be entering an improved version of the Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid into the upcoming N�rburgring 24 hour race on June 25, 2011. Priority of the new car�s development was given to the improvement of efficiency through the targeted optimization of hybrid components, which also resulted in a 20 percent weight reduction. Version 2.0 of the 911 GT3 R Hybrid is intended to achieve the same lap times as its predecessor but with even less fuel consumption.

The Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid Version 2.0 is powered by a hybrid system that combines a 480 HP 4.0 Liter flat six engine placed in the rear with two electric motors that drive the front wheels. The two motors will add an extra 200 HP (100 hp each) as opposed to the 150 HP offered on the first model. This power is automatically activated through the throttle pedal and can be quickly called upon when zipping around a competitor. Other than situations where the extra power can be used to overtake the competition for a few seconds, the Porsche will rely on the 4.0L engine for its stamina.

The other main difference with the new hybrid system is that the flywheel accumulator and other hybrid system components will be housed in a new carbon fibre safety cell positioned in the passenger-side area of the interior. This means these components, previously exposed to heat, won�t need to be cooled by aerodynamic-hindering large vents in the rear haunches. This means Version 2.0 will more slippery through the air.

Overall, the new 911 GT3 R Hybrid Version 2.0 now weighs 1300kg, a 50kg reduction from the previous car's weight of 1350kg. The interior has also been updated, with the displays and controls moved to the steering wheel. According to Porsche, drivers can operate the rest of the functions via backlit buttons now situated on the centre console.





Press Release

N�rburgring 24 hour race

Porsche lines up with an even more efficient 911 GT3 R Hybrid

Stuttgart. Porsche takes up the N�rburgring 24 hour race on 25 June with a further developed version of the Porsche 911 GT3 R Hybrid. Priority of the development was given to the improvement of efficiency through the targeted optimisation of hybrid components, which also resulted in a 20 percent weight reduction. Version 2.0 of the 911 GT3 R Hybrid is intended to achieve the same lap times as its predecessor but with less fuel consumption.

The general layout of the hybrid was adopted from the 2010 model. A portal axle with two electric motors drives the front wheels and supplements the four-litre, depending on the balance of performance classification approximately 470 hp, six-cylinder boxer engine at the rear. The output of both electric motors has increased from 60 to 75 kilowatts each. For seconds at a time, pilots now have almost an additional 200 hp at their disposal with the 911 GT3 R Hybrid 2.0. Depending on the programming, this power is automatically activated through use of the throttle pedal. Moreover, pilots can manually call up this extra power, for instance when overtaking.

The electric flywheel accumulator, with its rotor spinning up to 40,000 rpm and stor-ing energy mechanically as rotational energy, is now housed with the other hybrid components in a carbon fibre safety cell on the passenger's side.

At first glance, the new GT3 R Hybrid is clearly distinguishable from the 2010 model. Thanks to the optimisation of the hybrid system's high voltage components, the large louvres in front of the rear fenders were no longer necessary. This reduces drag and also lowers fuel consumption. All in all, the weight of the vehicle decreased from 1,350 to 1,300 kilograms.

"We've collected a great deal of information from our races on the N�rburgring, at the ALMS race at Road Atlanta in the USA, as well as from the ILMC race on China's Zhuhai circuit, which was an invaluable help for the further development of our racing laboratory," says Hartmut Kristen, head of Porsche motorsport. "The emphasis of our work was on improving efficiency. That means we want to keep the lap times consis-tent with 2010 but use less energy, hence less fuel. In this way, we support future developments of road-going, sporting hybrid vehicles."

The cockpit of the 911 GT3 R Hybrid has also been completely revised. Most of the displays and controls have moved to the steering wheel. Drivers can operate the rest of the functions via backlit buttons now situated on the centre console. Priority was placed on the ergonomics and the clear layout for pilots - particularly in darkness.

The new 911 GT3 R Hybrid is a perfect example of the �Porsche Intelligent Perform-ance' philosophy, a principle found in every Porsche: More power on less fuel, more efficiency and lower CO2 emissions - on the race track and on the road.

Porsche releases new Cajun in detail

The new Porsche Cajun baby SUV will be built alongside the Cayenne and Panamera at the company's factory in Leipzig, Germany.

Since its inauguration in 2002, this plant has been producing the Cayenne. After its first expansion, the four-seater Panamera Gran Turismo has been built there since 2009, which is produced in a model mix with the Cayenne. With the plans for the plant to become a full-fledged production for the Cajun along with body assembly line and paint shop, it is said that it will create about 1000 new jobs at Porsche in Leipzig along with even more opportunities created in Zuffenhausen and Weissach.

The Cajun is expected to be derived from the platform of the Audi Q5. Engines are said to include a pair of 3.0-liter V6s, with the normally aspirated version developing 290 horsepower and the twin-turbo unit making 350 hp.

The new "light and easy to handle" Cajun will be released in late 2012 or early 2013.




Press Release

Porsche builds the new "Cajun" in Leipzig

Stuttgart/Leipzig. The decision about the production site for the fifth model line of the Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, has been taken: The new vehicle with the project designation "Cajun" will be manufactured at the Porsche plant in Leipzig. This was decided by the supervisory board. The monitoring body authorised the board of management to finalise plans for the Saxony plant to become a fully-fledged production site for the "Cajun" including body assembly line and paint shop. Within the context of the Cajun production, at least one thousand new jobs are to be created in Leipzig, and additional new jobs at Porsche in Zuffenhausen and Weissach. Subject to approval by the authorities, construction work at the 400 hectare (1.54 square miles) site is scheduled to begin in 2011.

"During the production of the Cayenne and the Panamera, our Leipzig plant has impressively proved that it can produce premium vehicles of highest quality," says Matthias M�ller, chairman of the Porsche AG board of management. "The decision in favour of this location is proof of our trust in the skills and qualifications of our Leipzig associates, and at the same time another contribution to the economic advancement of the region."

Uwe H�ck, chairman of the group works council, said: "I am happy that I can sit back now. We had tough but fair negotiations. The employees' representatives have always been convinced that it is worthwhile to make the "Cajun" at our Saxony plant. At the end of the day, the high flexibility and productivity of our colleagues, male and female, has convinced the management board and the supervisory board to produce the "Cajun" in Leipzig. We are therefore very happy that the supervisory board authorised the board of management to plan the expansion of the Leipzig plant and turn it into a fully-fledged factory. The production of the Cajun is a very good sign for Leipzig. However, we cannot rest now but have to start talks about a further expansion of the Zuffenhausen plant in order to adapt our parent plant to future growth, too."

Burkhard Jung, mayor of the city of Leipzig, said: "The decision of the Porsche AG proves yet again that Leipzig with its professional city administration is an attractive, cosmopolitan city and, therefore, an international business site with a future."

With the efficient and agile "Cajun", Porsche extends its SUV segment which is in high demand all over the world. In addition to the new generation of the Cayenne which has clearly managed to strengthen its market position as one of the most successful sporty off-road vehicles in the premium segment, the light and easy-to-handle "Cajun" so typical of a Porsche will create further momentum. As an attractive entry-level modeI, it is expected to pave the way for new, even younger customers to enter the world of Porsche, in addition to the Boxster as the market leader among the two-seat mid-engine sports cars.

Since its inauguration in 2002, the highly modern plant in Saxony, Germany, has been producing the Cayenne. After its first expansion, the Gran Turismo Panamera four-seater has been built there since 2009. It is produced in a model mix with the sporty off-road vehicle. Up until today, Porsche has invested around 280 million euro in Leipzig.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class by Inden Design

Inden Design, a German based tuning firm, unveiled their latest package that aims to make the Mercedes-Benz S500 (W221) look more like the S65 AMG.

Along with the S65 AMG front end, Inden Design further modified the front end, side skirts and rear diffuser to reflect their style. Daytime running lights were also installed while the taillights and mirrors were refinished. Accent the entire package with a charcoal-gray matte wrap and you�ve got one clean luxury sedan.

Power has been bumped to 420 hp, in particular thanks to a stainless steel exhaust system with two AMG tailpipes left and right. Due to the increased power, the braking system was converted to 6-piston front calipers and 4-piston rear calipers.

New 20-inch alloy rims fitted with 265/30 front and 275/30 rear tires are available alongside a new braking system with six and four pistons and a ground clearance lowered by 50 mm thanks to the new suspension. Inside, Inden Design fitted the German model with carbon fiber trim, Alcantara and leather.

Inside, the S-Class receives more luxury refinement with the A, B and C Pillars, headliner, dashboard and door panels reupholstered in two-tone leather and black Alcantara. The wood accents have been replaced with black carbon counterparts.




Press Release

FLY EXPRESS - unequal rival by INDEN Design

An icon of good style in the luxury class is the Mercedes-Benz S-Class without any doubts. Unending comfort, last future-oriented technologies, as well as all conceivable safety precautions are inevitable in the car of this category.

The widely known beyond the borders of the Hessian Haiger-Flammersbach noble tuner INDEN Design specializes in the just discussed vehicles, located very near the top category. In this case, Joachim Inden, which is known for so many masterpieces, has undertaken to rebuild the S500 of W221 series from Stuttgart to the facelift version of the S65 AMG. The modifications at the front, the side sills and rear diffuser are associated with the highly visible and distinctive quality of INDEN-Design. Of course, daytime running lights were also installed, and tail lights and mirrors were retouched. The vehicle is completed with the chrome parts, coated with charcoal-gray matte film.

The performance increase up to 420 hp, in particular thanks to a stainless steel exhaust system with two AMG tailpipes left and right, almost inevitably involves lifting of the Vmax limiter. Due to the increased power, the braking system was "converted" to the S600 V12 BiTurbo model with 6-piston front calipers and 4-piston brake calipers. The right set of rims for the perfect vehicle in dimension of 10.5 x 20" with tires in 265/30-20 at the front and 275/30-20 - at the rear axle was fully installed. The standards of agility are set by lowering by 50 millimeters.

As might be expected, the interior was also not spared. The A, B and C pillars, the headliner at the dashboard and door panel are trimmed with two-color leather in combination with black Alcantara. In addition, all former wood pieces were replaced with black carbon parts. The speedometer change to a 360 km/h-scale closes the series of changes inside the vehicle.

As seen in the photos, thanks to INDEN-Design, the Mercedes stomp their hooves impatiently in anticipation of a power struggle with the unequal rival...

2012 BMW 6-Series Coupe

BMW has launched its redesigned 6 Series Coupe, on the back of the 6 Series Convertible which was released last month, the 2012 BMW 6 Series coupe has officially arrived. Its lines are tighter, its bite is more potent and it's heading to your local BMW dealership sometime this fall. Under the hood sits the same 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 that our man Chris Paukert sampled in the convertible. It produces 400 horsepower between 5,500 rpm and 6,400 rpm, and a stout 450 pound-feet of torque from 1,750 rpm up through 4,500 rpm.

At launch, two engines will be available. The 640i features a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six that develops 315 hp (235 kW / 320 PS) and 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) of torque. When paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission, the car accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 5.4 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). Despite the impressive performance, the engine is relatively frugal as the average fuel consumption is 7.7 L/100km (36.7 mpg imp / 30.5 mpg US) and CO2 emissions are 179 g/km.

Inside, the newest 6-Series gets more in synch with the 5-Series sedans�including a highly detailed, wraparound feel for the instrument panel. The high-definition central display is freestanding and now measures 10.2 inches across, with a vivid, flat-screen-monitor look. The latest fourth-generation version of iDrive, which we no longer loathe, is standard.




Press Release

The new BMW 6 Series Coupe

Captivating aesthetics, top-class performance, an exclusive interior and exceptionally innovative equipment features give the third-generation BMW 6 Series Coupe "dream car" credentials.

• Vehicle concept is unparalleled in the premium segment, combining the dynamics of a 2+2-seater sports car with outstanding touring com-fort; body length and wheelbase 75 millimetres longer than the prede-cessor model, enhancing seating comfort for rear passengers; ex-tremely sporty appearance thanks to a 39-millimetre increase in width and 5-millimetre reduction in height.
• Two engine variants available from launch: BMW 650i Coupe with eight-cylinder powerplant (300 kW/407 hp), BMW 640i Coupe with six-in-line petrol unit (235 kW/320 hp).
• Both engine variants come as standard with an eight-speed Sports au-tomatic gearbox; BMW EfficientDynamics measures unmatched in the segment (including Auto Start-Stop function and ECO PRO mode in the BMW 640i Coupe); optimised efficiency combined with significant output increase over predecessor models of 30 kW (BMW 650i) and 35 kW (BMW 640i).
• Newly developed chassis; only car in the segment available with Elec-tric Power Steering and optional Integral Active Steering; Drive Dynam-ic Control fitted as standard, Dynamic Damper Control and Adaptive Drive optional.
• First car in the segment with Adaptive LED Headlights for low and high beam, including cornering function, foglamps and rear lights also with LED technology.
• Standard BMW iDrive control system with freestanding Control Dis-play; unrivalled range of BMW ConnectedDrive features, including lat-est-generation BMW Head-Up Display (with high-definition, full-colour-spectrum graphics), rear-view camera, Surround View, Speed Limit In-fo, BMW Night Vision and Parking Assistant
• Driving pleasure tailored to individual preferences thanks to unique equipment options, including comfort and sports seats, active seats, seat ventilation, Exclusive Nappa leather, ceramic applications, and a newly developed and model-specific Bang & Olufsen High-End Surround Sound System.

Model variants:
BMW 650i Coupe: V8 petrol engine, BMW TwinPower Turbo tech-nology with High Precision Injection direct injection.
Displacement: 4,395 cc, output: 300 kW/407 hp at 5,500 - 6,400 rpm,
max. torque: 600 Nm at 1,750 - 4,500 rpm.
Acceleration 0-100 km/h (62 mph): 4.9 seconds,
top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph).
Average fuel consumption according to EU standard: 10.4 litres/100 kilometres (27.2 mpg imp)*,
CO2 emissions according to EU standard: 243 g/km*,
exhaust standard: EU5.
BMW 640i Coupe: Six-cylinder in-line petrol engine,
BMW TwinPower Turbo technology with direct-injection High Precision Injection and VALVETRONIC.
Displacement: 2,979 cc, output: 235 kW/320 hp at 5,800 rpm,
max. torque: 450 Nm at 1,300 - 4,500 rpm.
Acceleration 0-100 km/h (62 mph): 5.4 seconds,
top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph).
Average fuel consumption according to EU standard: 7.7 litres/100 kilometres (36.7 mpg imp)*,
CO2 emissions according to EU standard: 179 g/km*,
exhaust standard: EU5.

Inspired by a passion for aesthetics and dynamics: The new BMW 6 Series Coupe.

The hearts of sports car aficionados with an eye for beauty and a thirst for luxury and innovative technology will beat a little faster with the arrival of the new BMW 6 Series Coupe. The third generation of the top-class Coupe sees premium carmaker BMW adding another intoxicating chapter to its decades-long tradition in the production of exclusive dream cars. The new BMW 6 Series Coupe impresses with its irresistible design and inspires with even sharper driving dynamics than its predecessor, noticeably optimised comfort levels and extra space. This is the only car in the segment to offer the combination of top-class sporting ability, exclusive touring comfort and a 460-litre (16.24 cu. ft) luggage space. Also on board to deliver the BMW 6 Series Coupe's signature driving experience are a range of innovative driver assistance systems and BMW ConnectedDrive infotainment features. The new car therefore meets the highest - not to mention the broadest - ex-pectations of driving pleasure in a large, premium 2+2-seater in incomparable style.

Its unmistakable design language gives the new BMW 6 Series Coupe an aura of athletic elegance. The sweeping bonnet, short front overhang and set-back passenger compartment team up with a 74-millimetre increase in body length (4,894 mm) over its predecessor and a 75-millimetre longer wheelbase (2,855 mm) to create the hallmark proportions of a BMW Coupe. Meanwhile, the extra width of the new car - it is now 39 millimetres wider (at 1,894 mm) thanks to its increased track width - makes for an exceptionally powerful stance that emphasises its impressive roadholding. All of which ensures that observers are struck by the car's dynamic forward-surging presence and promise of majestic driving ability the moment they set eyes on it. The faithful reflection of the car's character in its exterior styling is given particular appeal by the lines running along the full length of the body and its harmoniously curved surfaces. The inspiration for these design features was the natural movement of waves. In the same way as water is parted by an object in flowing water, the car body's shaping lines fan out from the BMW badge on the bon-net to both sides of the body.

BMW TwinPower Turbo technology with petrol direct injection provides both sporty power development and exceptional efficiency in the engines available for the new BMW 6 Series Coupe from launch. In the new BMW 650i Coupe, a V8 powerplant with turbochargers positioned between the cylinder banks develops maximum output of 300 kW/407 hp. An exclusive feature of the 235 kW/320 hp six-cylinder in-line engine in the new BMW 640i Coupe, meanwhile, is the addition of VALVETRONIC variable valve control. Both units are hooked up to an eight-speed Sports automatic gearbox as standard. Also part of the standard specification is an extensive range of BMW EfficientDynamics technology, including the Auto Start-Stop function and ECO PRO mode (in the BMW 640i Coupe).
The new BMW 6 Series Coupe strikes an ideal balance between dynamic handling and ride comfort thanks to a newly developed chassis. Its standard Electric Power Steering and optional Integral Active Steering both break new ground in this segment. Also on the options list are Dynamic Damper Control and the Adaptive Drive system, complete with roll stabilisation. Drive Dynamic Control - which allows drivers to adjust the car's set-up to their individual tastes - comes as standard in the new BMW 6 Series Coupe.

The innovations in the new BMW 6 Series Coupe also extend to light technol-ogy, in the shape of Adaptive LED Headlights. Their bright white light provides an extremely intense and evenly spread illumination of the road. This technol-ogy is unparalleled in the segment and also allows the beam of the headlights to follow the progression of corners. Customers can also order their Coupe with optional LED foglamps.

Other features that set the new car apart from its rivals are the BMW ConnectedDrive driver assistance systems and mobility services. The rear-view camera, Surround View, Parking Assistant, BMW Night Vision with pedestrian recognition, Speed Limit Info, Lane Departure Warning System and Lane Change Warning System are joined on the list of available equipment items by the new generation of the BMW Head-Up-Display. The latest incar-nation of the system uses a full spectrum of colours to display the information projected onto the windscreen. The BMW iDrive control system, meanwhile, is included as standard in the BMW 6 Series Coupe as an operating portal for the navigation, communications and infotainment functions. Its Control Display comes in the form of a fixed, freestanding flatscreen, which adds an extra exclusive flourish to the generously sized and luxurious interior. Elsewhere, the optional Bang & Olufsen High-End Surround Sound System lays on a feast of aural pleasure seldom experienced inside a car.

The design: commanding presence and athletic elegance.
The new BMW 6 Series Coupe heralds the arrival of an exceptionally sporty and exclusive 2+2-seater in the premium segment of top-class Coupes. The new model's extra length and width over its predecessor model combine with its 5-millimetre lower height to produce a strikingly low-set and powerful de-sign. The new interpretation of the traditional BMW Coupe proportions is em-bellished by lines and surfaces inspired by the movement of waves. Flowing lines and harmonious curves create a feeling of athletic grace, complemented by extremely classy and eye-catching design features which underline the opulent character and elegant appearance of the two-door BMW.

The expressive front end is dominated by the large and slightly forward-slanting BMW kidney grille. The grille emphasises the car's sporting pedigree with a broad, flat design, and creates a visual connection with the engine nestl-ing behind. The kidney grille slats, angled slightly towards the top, lend addi-tional emphasis to the front end's "shark nose" character. The contour lines of the bonnet converge towards the kidney grille, forming a V-shape which is continued by the contours of the headlights, kidney and wide air intake to give a road-focused look. High-quality chrome elements and the LED units of the optional foglamps positioned in front of them guide the eye to the muscular wheel arches.

High-visibility innovation: Adaptive LED Headlights.
The new BMW 6 Series Coupe is equipped with bi-xenon headlights as standard. An accentuating trim element cuts across the top of the hallmark BMW twin round headlights to produce the intent look familiar from other BMW models. The optional Adaptive LED Headlights provide a fresh take on this established feature. The Adaptive LED Headlights for low beam and high beam contain LED light rings for the parking lights and daytime running lights, which are levelled off at the lower edge and overlapped at their top edge by an accent light - also featuring LEDs. The result is a stunning, distinctively BMW showcase for the innovative light technology below the surface. In addition, they also generate the low beam and high beam light from the two light rings. The light sources here are horizontal LED ribs positioned in the centre of the light rings. The brand's hallmark twin round headlight look is therefore ex-pressed even more strikingly not only with the daytime running lights switched on, but also when the headlights are activated in the dark.

However, the Adaptive LED Headlights are about more than just looking good; they also ensure the driver can see well. Their bright white light provides an intense and even illumination of the road ahead. From a colour perspective, the light comes much closer to natural daylight than that created by conven-tional halogen or xenon headlights, lending even reflective objects far greater contrast. The cornering element of the Adaptive LED Headlights is also tai-lored to the car's speed, steering angle and yaw rate, allowing the pivot of the headlights to adapt automatically to the line of the corner. Meanwhile, a light source positioned specially in the headlight housing generates the cornering light which, at low speeds, ensures illumination of the road surface in the direc-tion the car is turning. LED technology is also deployed for the direction indica-tors, each of which consists of eight LED units arranged in a row underneath the light rings. As well as enhancing visibility in the dark, the Adaptive LED Headlights thus also significantly improve the signalling effect of the car's lights.
Side view: elegant roofline, powerfully curved surfaces.

Tightly curved surfaces and character lines stretching the full length of the body define the side view of the BMW 6 Series Coupe. The forward-slanting BMW kidney grille is particularly clear from this angle. Despite its smooth curves and innovative pedestrian protection measures, the long bonnet still has a flat appearance. Its contour lines fan out wide and extend towards the rear. In combination with the car's typical Coupe proportions, this creates a particularly elegant, elongated silhouette.
The exterior design has been inspired by waves with clearly defined lines and volume formed around an object in flowing water. This gives the new BMW 6 Series Coupe a naturally powerful and sporty edge. The typical BMW swage line extends out from behind the front wheel arch, takes in the sporty gill feature and extends dynamically along the flank of the car to the rear. In so doing, it stretches the new BMW 6 Series Coupe visually and lends it a dy-namic yet elegant allure. The door handles are integrated precisely into the swage line. A further character line emerges from the swell of the front wheel arch, before dropping down between the gill and the door and then levelling out towards the rear, its path replicating a forward-surging wave. The door sill line underneath it and an additional crease give the lower edge of the body a light and sporty appearance.

The roofline of the new BMW 6 Series Coupe also swoops in an elegant, flat progression into the tail. It comes across as especially svelte when viewed from the side, creating a contrast typical of BMW Coupes between the power-ful body and light passenger compartment. Doors with frameless windows underline this impression. The chromed side window border emphasises the "counter-swing" at the foot of the C-pillar (known as the Hofmeister kink) with its particularly tight line.
Rear view: striking indications of dynamic and secure roadholding.

From the rear, the new BMW 6 Series Coupe exudes power, athleticism and solidity. Bulging wheel arches accentuate the wide track of the new car, offer-ing a hint of its impressive roadholding. Added to which, horizontal lines and the broadening impression of the car's shape as you follow it towards the rear paint a clear picture of the sporting performance waiting to be unlocked. The slightly concave lower section of the boot lid generates light and shade effects which lend an extra lightness to the rear of the car. The edges of the boot lid and the licence plate surround create a V-shape, which - similarly to the front of the car - steers the eye towards the road. The exhaust tailpipes are posi-tioned on either side of a diffusor-style apron. On the BMW 650i Coupe they are trapezoidal in shape while on the BMW 640i Coupe they are circular.

The two-part rear light clusters display the customary BMW L-shape in a par-ticularly wide rendition that extends far into the boot lid, while the swage line that flows into the rear lights forges a harmonious link between the side and the rear of the car. Inside the rear light clusters, two LED-powered light strips generate the familiar BMW night-time look, an effect that is reinforced by the L-shaped lower light unit. The direction indicators and brake lights are also LED-powered. The wide additional brake light is located in the upper edge of the boot lid.

Interior: driver-oriented cockpit, exclusive ambience.
The driver-oriented cockpit layout familiar from BMW models down the years and a dynamic forward-surging movement define the design of the interior. The centre section of the instrument panel - including the Control Display, the central air vent and the controls for the audio system and climate control - is angled slightly towards the driver. The gearshift lever is located on a surface that opens out towards the driver and is set lower than the front passenger side of the centre console. This structure is repeated in the central section of the instrument panel, further enhancing the driver-focused feel. The fluent transition between the centre console and instrument panel can be accentuat-ed with optional stitching in contrasting colour for the leather surfaces.

The horizontal structuring of the instrument panel is accentuated by an elec-troplated strip on the driver's side of the cabin. This is extended into the front-passenger side in the form of a subtle crease in the glove compartment. Meanwhile, powerfully taut waistline surfaces - which are carried forward into the instrument panel - embody the feeling of dynamic forward movement in-side the cabin. The decorative surface of the instrument panel extends into the centre console with an elegant, slightly curving sweep to lend the front-passenger side an exclusive allure.

The rear seats also provide their passengers with a very pleasant level of tour-ing comfort thanks to their individual-seat character and greater shoulder and elbowroom compared with the outgoing model. In addition, there is also more headroom for all the passengers, despite the reduced overall height of the car. The rear seat backrests can be specified as an option with a through-loading facility for a ski bag, allowing two pairs of skis to be transported in comfort. The luggage area can accommodate 460 litres (16.24 cu. ft) of luggage, which means that the BMW 6 Series Coupe can carry three 46-inch golf bags or two medium-sized hard-shell cases plus a flight case.

Optimised display, exclusive feel: instruments in black-panel technology, Control Display with flatscreen design.

The instrument cluster in black-panel technology combines state-of-the-art display technology with classic sports-car circular instruments. A high-resolution 9.2-inch display below the four dials includes the mileage counter, fuel consumption and Efficient Dynamics display, as well as feedback from the driver assistance systems and Check/Control messages. This black-panel technology, which made its debut in the BMW 7 Series, is also used for the climate control displays in the centre section of the instrument panel.

In addition to the Controller with direct menu control buttons positioned on the console centre, the standard-fitted iDrive operating system also comes with a new monitor in exclusive flatscreen design. This freestanding Control Display is located in a prominent and optimal position within the instrument panel, and creates the feeling of a powerboat cockpit rising up dynamically in front of the driver and front passenger. The central Control Display in the new BMW 6 Series Coupe has a 7-inch-diameter screen as standard. However, if the optional Navigation system Professional is specified, this is upgraded to a 10.2-inch version - the largest on-board monitor in the segment - bordered by a high-class electroplated chrome surround.

The exterior paintwork of the new BMW 6 Series Coupe can be ordered in a choice of eight metallic and two non-metallic shades, allowing customers to highlight both the sporting credentials of the Coupe and its modern and ele-gant character. The standard Dakota leather trim is available in three colour variants, the optional Exclusive Nappa leather in a choice of four shades. As an alternative to the standard Softskin surfacing, the instrument panel, door and side panels can be specified with Exclusive Nappa leather trim. Also, double French seams in a contrasting colour matching the seat covers can be ordered in place of the black French seams. The interior trim comes as standard in High-gloss Black, but can alternatively be ordered as an option in Brushed Aluminium, Poplar Grain Grey or American Oak high-gloss. Optional ceramic applications for the audio system and air conditioning controls, gearshift lever and iDrive Controller lend the interior an extra flourish.

Outstanding seat comfort, comprehensive safety equipment, body with excellent torsional rigidity.
The lightweight seats with integrated belt system developed for the new BMW 6 Series range are available in three variants. The integrated belt system makes it easier both to reach the belt and to climb into the rear of the car. The standard-fitted driver and front passenger seats boast electric adjustment for the seat height and fore/aft position, backrest angle and head restraint height - including memory function - as well as seat heating and an easy-entry function to facilitate access to the rear compartment.

The optional sports seats offer optimal lateral support with their raised seat and backrest sides, and come fitted with integrated head restraints as well as manually adjustable thigh support. Comfort seats are another option, adding comfort head restraints, lumbar support, and electric adjustment of the thigh support, backrest width and angle of the upper backrest segment. Offering an alternative to the standard Dakota leather upholstery is Exclusive Nappa leath-er with extended features. For the sports seats and comfort seats, there is the added option of active seat ventilation. Plus, comfort seats can also be speci-fied with the active seat function.

All the seat variants available for the new BMW 6 Series Coupe come with crash-activated head restraints. The standard safety specification also includes front airbags, seat frame-mounted side airbags, side curtain head airbags for both rows of seats, three-point inertia-reel seatbelts on all seats, belt force limiters and belt latch tensioners, as well as ISOFIX child seat attachments in the rear. To optimise passive pedestrian protection, in some national markets the new BMW 6 Series Coupe is equipped with an active bonnet system; in the event of a collision with a pedestrian, a pyrotechnic actuator mechanism automatically raises the front and rear of the bonnet.

The new BMW 6 Series Coupe is fitted with robust load-path structures, pre-cisely defined deformation zones and an extremely rigid safety passenger cell. These safety features ensure maximum occupant protection in all types of collision. Carefully targeted advances in the use of materials have increased the strength and lowered the weight of the body with the aim of enhancing both the safety and agility of the car. Indeed, the static torsional rigidity of the new Coupe is around 53 per cent greater than that of its predecessor. In the interests of weight optimisation, the doors, bonnet and front axle spring mounts are all aluminium, while the front side panels are made from plastic and the boot lid from glass fibre composite.

Top-class performance from eight or six cylinders: BMW TwinPower Turbo in the new BMW 6 Series Coupe.

One V8 and one six-cylinder in-line engine are available for the new BMW 6 Series Coupe from market launch, and both can claim unique features.

These power units are kitted out with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, including High Precision Injection petrol direct injection, and stand out with their instantaneous power development, majestic in-gear acceleration, out-standing refinement and exemplary efficiency for their output class.
The eight-cylinder power unit in the new BMW 650i Coupe produces maxi-mum output of 300 kW/407 hp from its 4.4-litre displacement between 5,500 and 6,400 rpm. This unique engine, whose turbochargers are posi-tioned in the V-shaped area between the cylinder banks, produces an instan-taneous and sustained wave of power, making it a feast for the enthusiast driv-er. Peak torque of 600 Newton metres (443 lb-ft) is served up between 1,750 and 4,500 rpm. The sporting performance attributes of the V8 engine enable the new BMW 650i Coupe to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.9 seconds, leaving the engine electronics to call a halt to proceedings at 250 km/h (155 mph). And yet the range-topping model also demonstrates extraordinary efficiency for this output class, recording average fuel consump-tion of 10.4 litres* per 100 kilometres (27.2 mpg imp) in the EU test cycle, together with CO2 emissions of 243 grams* per kilometre.

The new BMW 640i Coupe is powered by a six-cylinder in-line engine in which the BMW TwinPower Turbo technology brings both direct injection and VALVETRONIC fully variable valve control to the table. This combination optimises both the responsiveness and efficiency of the 3.0-litre powerplant, which generates maximum output of 235 kW/320 hp at 5,800 rpm and puts its peak torque of 450 Newton metres (332 lb-ft) on tap between 1,300 and 4,500 rpm. The BMW 640i Coupe completes the sprint from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.4 seconds, and its top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155 mph). Average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle stands at 7.7 litres* per 100 kilometres (36.7 mpg imp), while CO2 emissions come in at 179 grams* per kilometre.
Standard-fitted eight-speed Sports automatic gearbox with steering wheel shift paddles; BMW 640i Coupe with Auto Start-Stop function.

Both the BMW 650i Coupe and BMW 640i Coupe transfer their power to the rear wheels via an eight-speed Sports automatic gearbox. This standard-fitted unit enhances sporty driving with exceptionally rapid gear changes, offers out-standing shift comfort and also optimises the efficiency of both model variants.

The innovative gear set configuration of the compact, low-weight automatic allows it to offer eight gears and a correspondingly wide gear spread. This not only enhances the car's sprinting ability, but also supports economical driving at low revs. With its minimal converter slip and impressive inherent efficiency, the eight-speed Sports automatic helps to ensure efficient power transmis-sion. And the driver can also change gear manually using the shift paddles mounted on the steering wheel.

Extensive BMW EfficientDynamics technology also plays its part in cutting fuel consumption and emissions in the new BMW 6 Series Coupe. Among the systems fitted as standard are Brake Energy Regeneration, Electric Power Steering (EPS), the on-demand operation of ancillary components, intelligent lightweight construction and low-rolling-resistance tyres. The new BMW 640i Coupe is also fitted with automatic active air flap control and the Auto Start-Stop function. When the driver draws to a standstill at junctions or in a traffic jam, the engine is automatically switched off to prevent unnecessary fuel consumption at idle. As soon as the driver releases the brake pedal, the engine starts up again. If the driver is using the Auto Hold function, the engine is restarted when the accelerator is depressed.

Another innovation also helps smooth the way to particularly low fuel con-sumption while on the move. A touch of the Drive Dynamic Control button allows BMW 640i Coupe drivers to activate ECO PRO mode and unlock addi-tional efficiency-boosting potential. ECO PRO mode tweaks the engine man-agement, the accelerator mapping and the shift characteristics of the automat-ic gearbox to favour a consciously relaxed and frugal driving style at low engine revs. At the same time, efficient power usage for electrically operated func-tions such as the climate control system and the seat and exterior mirror heat-ing ensures extremely efficient in-car energy management. Special readouts in the instrument cluster and Control Display keep the driver informed on the levels of energy efficiency currently being achieved, as well as keeping a rec-ord for the journey up to that point, and encourage a driving style that minimis-es fuel consumption. For example, the increase in range achieved by using ECO PRO mode is shown in kilometres.

Advanced chassis technology and optional Adaptive Drive deliver the perfect balance of sports performance and comfort.
The driving experience in the new BMW 6 Series Coupe is defined by sporty handling characteristics. However, the cutting-edge chassis technology of the two-door car also delivers impressive ride comfort. Both the double wishbone front axle and the integral rear axle are made predominantly from aluminium. The chassis set-up is geared to the requirements of drivers with sporting in-tentions, although the dampers also respond sensitively to bumps in the road surface under high lateral acceleration.

Available as options for both model variants are Dynamic Damper Control and the Adaptive Drive system, which also includes Dynamic Drive active roll stabi-lisation. The electronically controlled dampers adapt to both the nature of the road surface and the driver's style to prevent unwanted movements in the car body, while an innovative damping system adjusts the compression and re-bound settings continuously and independently from one another. For exam-ple, a stiff chassis setting can be impressively combined with comfortable re-sponses to unevenness in the road surface. The roll stabilisation feature also reduces effects such as body roll in high-speed corners and under sudden changes in direction.

Unmatched in the segment: Electric Power Steering as standard, In-tegral Active Steering optional.
The Electric Power Steering system with Servotronic function delivering speed-sensitive power assistance is unique in the BMW 6 Series Coupe seg-ment and combines customary BMW precision, comfort and efficiency. In con-trast to conventional mechanical/hydraulic systems, the power assistance is provided by an electric motor, which only goes to work - and therefore uses energy - if power assistance is required or desired by the driver.

In addition, the new BMW 6 Series Coupe is the first car in its class that can be ordered, as an option, with Integral Active Steering. This system combines the Active Steering system for the front axle - already available for the predeces-sor model - with a steering rear axle, allowing the steering angle and power assistance to be controlled at both the front and the rear with the help of elec-tric motors. Precisely harmonised wheel deflections pave the way for extraor-dinary agility in dynamic driving situations. Also, Integral Active Steering displays an impressively deft touch around twisty mountain passes and in city traffic. At speeds of up to 60 km/h (37 mph), the rear wheels are turned in the opposite direction to the steering angle of the front wheels. This has the effect of reducing the car's turning circle and the amount of steering effort required. At higher speeds, Integral Active Steering gives the car extremely comfortable and assured reactions when changing lanes and cornering. The rear wheels follow the same steering movements as the front wheels, enabling the car to follow the course set by the driver with even greater immediacy and precision.

Drive Dynamic Control gives the driver the choice of car set-up.
With Drive Dynamic Control, the virtues of sportiness and comfort can take precedence as the situation demands. Drivers can make their own choice of suspension settings in NORMAL, SPORT and SPORT+ modes using a button on the centre console. In the new BMW 640i Coupe, ECO PRO mode can also be activated. If the Dynamic Damper Control or Adaptive Drive option has been specified, the COMFORT setting can also be used. In this mode, as well as adjusting the accelerator pedal progression, engine responses, power steering characteristics, DSC response thresholds and the shift dynamics of the automatic gearbox, Drive Dynamic Control also tweaks the damper re-sponses and, if necessary, the roll stabilisation settings. On cars also fitted with Integral Active Steering, the basic steering set-up is also adjusted according to the mode selected, as well as the level of power assistance. As a result, in SPORT and SPORT+ modes the car's sporting responses are sharpened even further.

The lightweight, floating-calliper brakes with inner-vented discs are easy to use with precision, and their effectiveness is reinforced by Dynamic Stability Control (DSC). This driving stability system brings together technology such as the anti-lock braking system (ABS), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Corner-ing Brake Control (CBC), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), the Start-Off Assis-tant, the automatic Brake Drying function and brake fade compensation. Standard equipment also includes 18-inch light-alloy wheels on the new BMW 650i Coupe or 17-inch rims for the new BMW 640i Coupe, as well as runflat tyres and a runflat indicator.