BMW’s R&D chief, Dr. Klaus Draeger, has reconfirmed once again BMW’s plans to launch a production model of the recently unveiled Gran Coupe Concept. The upcoming four-door coupe would be positioned alongside the 6 Series in terms of pricing and technology, but the final naming convention has yet to be determined. The 6 Series starts at 70,450 euros (about $93,560) in Germany.
In an interview for AutoWeek, Dr. Draeger revealed that the Gran Coupe model will launch in 2012. UK magazine Autocar talks about the possibility of the car being badged as an 8 Series vehicle, but the information has not been confirmed by BMW officials and we also find it to be highly speculative.
Furthermore, Dr. Draeger said a hybrid version was also possible. “We are in position to bring out an additional hybrid version since we are using the same powertrain architecture as the 5-, 6- or 7-series.”
Among other groups, BMW wants the Gran Coupe to appeal to 7 Series customers who don’t need a chauffeur-driven sedan.
Draeger said the new car’s 2012 launch would follow that of the two-door 6-series next year.
[Source: AutoWeek ]
