[RPM90]

Originally Posted by hokie4life03

Agree. Why bother to make this car? It looks nice but coupe means 2-door!

I agree.

Yes, it does look nice, if one wants an even bigger 3 series.
This "gran coupe" idea is getting out of hand.
BMW already has a 4 series sedan, it's called the "3 series".
The 4 series is supposed to be the 3 series coupe version.
If BMW wanted to see a "gran coupe", then why not just design the 3 series to look like that?

BMW decided to break tradition by giving the coupe versions of their sedans a different number. But then, they decide to make a different looking sedan based on the coupe and simply call it a "4 gran coupe". It's NOT coupe.
It's a SEDAN, clear and simple.

As for a smaller sedan, I welcome the idea of a 1/2 series sedan. If BMW feels compelled to call it a "2 gran coupe", ok whatever. But don't make a 1/2 series sedan and then make a 'gran coupe'. It's just too freaking many cosmetic variants.

If the 4 coupe is based on the 3 series chassis, then how different will a
gran coupe, based on the 4 coupe that's based on the 3 series, actually be in terms of driving experience?
A longer wheelbase will make for a better ride, but won't be as nimble as a shorter wheelbase.
Seems the size of the 4 gran coupe is close to a 5 series. So why not just make the 5 series look that? It makes no sense to me. It's an experiment in cosmetics and visual appeal.

[RPM90]

Originally Posted by jlstyle

If somehow testmule developes into something like that rendering, I would totally get it over 3 sedan IF it doesn't carry $20K premium.
I can only suspect that it will start somewhere around $48000~50000 for 4 cyl version and will be around $60k with couple of options. I think it's going to fill in the gap between 528 and 535.

Gap between a 528 and 535, what gap?
It's the same chassis and one gets a turbo 4 and the other a turbo 6.
I don't see a 'gap' in there.

Also, I don't think the 4GC chassis is based on the 5, but on the 3.

This BMW GC idea is an answer to a question no on asked. It works better as a single stylish model in the lineup the way it is with VW, Audi, and MB.
BMW, it seems, wants a GC for all of it's series. That's what I don't get.

The VW CC is cool because it's a unique style that isn't coming from a coupe or sedan, style wise. It's unique mode in the VW lineup.
Likewise the CLS.
The Audi A7 is also no based on a coupe. It shares Audi/VW MLB chassis, which is what the 2012 A6 is on. There isn't an A6 coupe.

[RPM90]

Originally Posted by SCOTT26

Why the sudden interest in four door Coupe's?
Well the demographic for standard Coupe models is changing because of the emergence of new markets the customers are getting younger and with that demographic comes the responsibilities that the customer requires , extra flexibility for a family or business clients yet they still crave the sleek looks and performance of a Coupe. BMW are not alone in extending their product line to include more practical Coupe models.

Ok. If that's true, then design the new sedans to give that look, and it will appeal to those who seek a sleeker look.

To my eye, I don't see anything on the GC's that would appeal to a coupe buyer who needs more room. The GC's are LONGER than the coupe, thus negating the appeal of a coupe that gives the car a smaller look vs it's sedan variant, even if it isnt'.

I see this GC as alternatives for sedan buyers not couple buyers. Those who want a coupe want a 2 door, at least I do. When I got my 135i I liked it because of it's 2 door styling.

The GC does look nice, great style. If both the F30 and the 4 GC were out, I'd consider either one. But if I really wanted a coupe, it would be a 2 door.

[brad0]

when is this car - the 4GC expected to be in showrooms?

[SCOTT26]

Answers to your questions.

Ok. If that's true, then design the new sedans to give that look, and it will appeal to those who seek a sleeker look.

With BMW as well as conventional new car markets there is huge reliance on fleet markets throughout Europe and the UK. If we made the 3er more like the 4er Gran Coupe then right away the car would become unpractical for fleet sales and would drive customers into larger and more practical sedans from our competitors.
The 4er Gran Coupe like the 6er GC is a niche model therefore a model that will bring a considerable return thanks to its positioning.

To my eye, I don't see anything on the GC's that would appeal to a coupe buyer who needs more room. The GC's are LONGER than the coupe, thus negating the appeal of a coupe that gives the car a smaller look vs it's sedan variant, even if it isnt'.
As I said customers and demographics are getting younger especially in important emerging markets and with that comes the requirement for more flexibility. Yet they still want a Coupe.

I see this GC as alternatives for sedan buyers not couple buyers. Those who want a coupe want a 2 door, at least I do. When I got my 135i I liked it because of it's 2 door styling.
It is all a matter of preference , but with the 6er Gran Coupe I know some customers who like the 6er Coupe but require extra flexibility for family and business needs.

The GC does look nice, great style. If both the F30 and the 4 GC were out, I'd consider either one. But if I really wanted a coupe, it would be a 2 door.
The 4er will be available as both 2dr and 4dr.

[soolman32]

Oh am I glad I've waited before buying an F30. Love how sleek the 6 GC looks. It's clear that the 4 GC variant will cost a little more than the 3 series but if it's reasonable I can honestly say that I'd be more inclined to buy the GC. Best of both world in my opinion, coupe styling with 4 door convenience... I'm sold if it look like that rendering!

[claykin]

Originally Posted by soolman32

Oh am I glad I've waited before buying an F30. Love how sleek the 6 GC looks. It's clear that the 4 GC variant will cost a little more than the 3 series but if it's reasonable I can honestly say that I'd be more inclined to buy the GC. Best of both world in my opinion, coupe styling with 4 door convenience... I'm sold if it look like that rendering!

My guess is optioned similarly to an F30, the 4GC will be $7-10K more expensive. And lease residuals very likely be lower than the F30 so lease customers will see a bigger hit.

[soolman32]

Originally Posted by claykin

My guess is optioned similarly to an F30, the 4GC will be $7-10K more expensive. And lease residuals very likely be lower than the F30 so lease customers will see a bigger hit.

That price difference would be acceptable. Why do think the residual value would be lower on the 4GC?

[claykin]

Originally Posted by soolman32

That price difference would be acceptable. Why do think the residual value would be lower on the 4GC?

As models go upmarket, residuals are less. Fewer resale buyers.

[soolman32]

Originally Posted by claykin

As models go upmarket, residuals are less. Fewer resale buyers.

Makes sense. Thanks for the quick lesson.

[Alpine F31]

Originally Posted by soolman32

Oh am I glad I've waited before buying an F30. Love how sleek the 6 GC looks. It's clear that the 4 GC variant will cost a little more than the 3 series but if it's reasonable I can honestly say that I'd be more inclined to buy the GC. Best of both world in my opinion, coupe styling with 4 door convenience... I'm sold if it look like that rendering!

I sat in the back of a 6 GC and while it indeed has four doors, the back seat is decidedly coupe like. A full sized adult wouldn't want to ride very far in the back seat. My skinny 10 year old daughter complained about the space. I'm not sure if the 4 GC will be cramped, but the 6 sure is. It's BEAUTIFUL though!