We have recently spied the F36 4 Series Gran Coupe (4GC) out testing again and although it wears the same camouflage as before, we get a first look at the F36 against the F30 3 series sedan and the F34 3 Series GT (gran touring).
What's clearly confirmed by the photos is the expected difference in roofline heights and shapes between the different models, which mirror the differences between the 6 series gran coupe, 5 series sedan and 5 series GT. The 4GC features the lowest and sleekest roofline, followed by the slightly taller F30 sedan, and then the GT. The 4GC will also add some centimeters in its overall length compared to the F30 sedan.
Codenamed as the F36, the 4 Series Gran Coupe will top the 3-Series/4-Series range just as the 6 Series Gran Coupe does for the 5-Series/6-Series range. Like the 6 Series Gran Coupe, it will be the flagship of the non-M series line for the 3/4-Series lineup and will be priced accordingly. For reference, the 2013 640i Gran Coupe is priced at a $1600 premium over the 2013 640i Coupe.
Like the 6 Series Gran Coupe, the 4 Series Gran Coupe combines the convenience of 4 doors (and larger rear passenger cabin) with the sleek roofline and silhouette of a coupe. It will share the upcoming 4 Series Coupe (F32)'s overall styling, just as the 6 Series Gran Coupe shares with its coupe counterpart. The 4 Series coupe recently revealed its kidney grille design (
photos), which we will also see on the 4 Series Gran Coupe. It will also share the same engine offerings as the 4 Series coupe and convertible.
With the 4 Series Gran Coupe as an addition, here is a summary of the upcoming 3 Series / 4 Series lineup:
- F30 3 Series Sedan
- F31 3 Series Touring
- F32 4 Series Coupe
- F33 4 Series Convertible
- F34 3 Series (GT) Gran Touring
- F35 3 Series Long Wheelbase (China only)
- F36 4 Series Gran Coupe
Just as the 6 Series Gran Coupe has spawned the
M6 Gran Coupe, so it would come as no shock to see an eventual M4 Gran Coupe as well.
Expect the 4 Series Gran Coupe to hit the market sometime in 2014 to compete with the Audi A5 Sportback.
** Click on images for high resolution version **
