Spotlight: BMW 640i Gran Coupe

The very mention of BMW conjures up images of sporty sedans, coupes and SUV's. And that's is precisely what BMW is about. They inject each and every one of their vehicles with a sporty punch, while also balancing a luxurious ride and cabin life. My mom and brother, Brandon (pictured above) have both owned two separate BMW's. My mom had a 2006 330i and now a 2013 X6. Brandon had a 2004 745Li and now the vehicle you see him with in the photo, a 2013 640i Gran Coupe.

So as not to bore you with all the technical details, I will get down to some unique aspects to this vehicle. The "Gran Coupe" term comes to the shaping of the vehicle. Although a sedan, the sloped roof in the back gives a "coupe-like" look. Many vehicles have started following this trend, it began in 2004 with the Mercedes-Benz CLS.

The "40" at the end of BMW numbers determines the engine size, although it can de extremely misleading. For example, this engine is a 3.0 liter, not a 4.0 liter, but because it is turbocharged, it gives the "feel" of a larger engine. Does that make sense? Maybe? Not really? Let's move on.

The headlights on this vehicle are completely LED, which is becoming more common in high-end vehicles. They are brighter, have a longer life, and simply look cooler. In the vehicle, the lights are able to turn with the angle of the steering wheel to give the driver a better view of the road in dark spots. And to help the driver navigate in reverse, a nifty rear-view camera is mechanically driven underneath the logo in the back. Those wheels are an option, and at 20 inches they are a great investment. Brandon recently had them powder coated and it makes them even more striking.

Inside is arguably the best place to be. The entire headlining of the vehicle, as well as the pillars, is wrapped in "alcantara" which is fancy wording for "faux" suede but the effect is incredible. The gauges are 100% digital and can be configured in multiple settings, as can the vehicle be it Comfort mode, Sport or the hardcore Sport+. The gear lever is funky and takes a few moments to truly "get" but works wonderfully. The entire dashboard, door panels and center console are either endowed with fine wood, clean metal or stitched leather. This car truly is a fine piece of machinery. 

With over 300 horsepower on hand, this vehicle is equally suited to being driven comfortably on the highway or around tight weaving corners of a mountain. BMW customers are extremely passionate about the brand, and it's easy to tell why. The quality of the vehicles is impeccable and the performance is so versatile regardless of what vehicle you're interested in.

I guess that's why they chose the slogan "The Ultimate Driving Machine."

-Cameron