At the Auto Expo this year, BMW introduced a new line/model in the Indian market. It sits atop the 5 Series, offers more space, but doesn’t rival the 7 Series in terms of luxury or, more importantly, pricing. It’s called the BMW 6 Series GT. And after a rather nice welcome by the show-goers early this month, the production of the car has begun at the company’s Chennai-based manufacturing facility.
The diesel-engined version will be brought out a little later but for now the company will make the petrol variant: 630i Gran Turismo Sport Line. It’s powered by a 2-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine that makes 255 bhp, and manages a 0-100 kph in just 6.3 seconds. Like in most other BMWs, power is sent to the rear wheels via an 8-speed automatic gearbox.
Priced at Rs 58.9 lakh (ex-showroom), the BMW 6 Series GT offers a 50:50 weight distribution, a variety of driver aids, a feature-packed lush interior (including things like Gesture Control, Display Key, Welcome Light Carpet, etc.) and up to 1800 litres of boot space. The Sport Line variant includes exterior features covered in high-gloss black, sports seats, multifunction sports steering wheel, and exclusive key with chrome high-gloss detailing.
The company has achieved close to 50 per cent of localisation for the products it makes in India. The list includes the 3 Series, 5 Series, X1, X3, X5, 7 Series, 3 Series GT, 6 Series GT, and the new MINI Countryman (production to begin from 2018 onwards).
BMW Group Plant’s (Chennai), MD, Dr Jochen Stallkamp said, “BMW Group Plant Chennai is proud to roll-out the first-ever BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo in India. The BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo is not only a unique concept but also makes a significant mark through its advanced engineering, technology and innovations. Now locally-produced in India, it will create a novel segment and set new benchmarks in the Indian luxury car segment. As always, BMW Group Plant Chennai is committed to deliver the best-in-class products for discerning customers who value the highest level of quality in every detail.”
