BMW 640d Coupe: 313Hp Diesel Grand Tourer Review

The BMW 640d Coupe stands out as a pinnacle of grand touring excellence, combining a robust diesel powertrain with sophisticated design and driver-focused dynamics. This model excels in delivering effortless acceleration, remarkable fuel efficiency, and high-end comfort for extended journeys.

Powertrain Mastery: Diesel Excellence

At the heart of the BMW 640d Coupe lies a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six diesel engine producing 313 horsepower and a substantial 465 lb-ft of torque. This setup propels the coupe from 0-62 mph in just 5.4 seconds, rivaling petrol counterparts while offering superior economy at around 52 mpg combined. The engine’s smooth delivery and low-rev punch make it ideal for overtaking and highway cruising, with minimal diesel clatter thanks to engineered sound enhancements played through the cabin speakers.

Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, gear changes are seamless and rapid, enhancing the powertrain’s flexibility. Paddle shifters provide manual control, though the gearbox’s intelligence often renders them unnecessary, especially given the diesel’s torque characteristics. Official figures claim 143 g/km CO2 emissions, meeting Euro-6 standards post-facelift, underscoring BMW’s commitment to efficiency without sacrificing performance.

Design and Aerodynamics: Sleek Sophistication

The 640d Coupe’s exterior boasts a low-slung profile with aggressive lines, flared wheel arches, and adaptive LED headlights that contribute to its aerodynamic efficiency. Its coupe silhouette prioritizes style over outright practicality, creating a visual allure that turns heads on any road. Dimensionally, it measures over 4.9 meters long, emphasizing presence without excess bulk.

Inside, the cabin exudes luxury with high-quality leather, wood or aluminum trims, and a driver-centric layout. Digital instrument clusters offer customizable displays, while the iDrive infotainment system—with its large screen—handles navigation, audio, and connectivity intuitively. Ambient lighting and optional features like heads-up displays elevate the experience, making it a haven for long drives.

Driving Dynamics: Balance of Comfort and Agility

Behind the wheel, the 640d delivers a composed ride suited to grand touring. The chassis tuning provides surefooted handling on sweeping roads, with precise steering that feels weighted and accurate, though not as razor-sharp as a sports car. Suspension adaptive dampers (optional) strike a balance between compliance over bumps and control in corners, though firmer M Sport setups can feel taut on poor surfaces.

Braking is confident with strong bite, and the rear-wheel-drive layout ensures engaging dynamics. It’s not a track weapon but shines on B-roads and motorways, where body control and refinement shine. Visibility is compromised by the narrow rear window, mitigated by parking sensors and cameras.

This table highlights the 640d’s edge in acceleration and efficiency over key competitors.

Interior Comfort and Practicality

The front seats are supremely supportive with heating and memory functions standard, offering excellent adjustability for drivers of all sizes. Rear space accommodates two adults comfortably, but the coupe’s sloping roofline limits headroom for taller passengers—best as a 2+2 setup. Boot capacity stands at 16.2 cubic feet, adequate for weekend luggage but not family hauls.

• Key Interior Highlights:
• Premium leather and soft-touch materials throughout.
• Quad-zone climate control for personalized comfort.
• Advanced audio system with Harman Kardon option.
• Connectivity via Bluetooth, USB, and optional Wi-Fi hotspot.

While luxurious, it’s more coupe than practical sedan, positioning it against four-door Gran Coupes for those needing extra space.

Technology and Safety Features

BMW equips the 640d with a suite of modern tech. Standard fare includes cruise control, lane departure warning, and front collision mitigation. Options expand to adaptive cruise, surround-view cameras, and night vision—pushing equipped prices higher. The heads-up display projects key info onto the windshield, reducing distraction.

Safety ratings are strong, with robust crash structures and multiple airbags. Active steering (optional) aids maneuverability in tight spaces but can feel less linear at speed.

Ownership Costs and Reliability

Priced around £70,000 new (circa 2015), the 640d undercuts some rivals but options inflate totals. Running costs impress with diesel economy slashing fuel bills—real-world 40-45 mpg possible. Servicing follows BMW’s schedule, with diesel maintenance potentially higher long-term. Used examples under £20,000 offer value, provided service history is verified.

Rivals like the Mercedes CLS demand similar premiums, but the BMW’s efficiency gives it an edge. Resale holds well due to desirability.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

• Pros: Explosive diesel performance, exceptional economy, luxurious cabin, refined ride.
• Cons: Limited rear space, firm ride in sport trims, high option costs, visibility challenges.

Who Should Buy the BMW 640d Coupe?

Ideal for enthusiasts seeking a stylish, efficient GT for solo or couple travel. Empty nesters or executives prioritizing comfort and pace over outright utility will appreciate it most. Families or those needing four full seats should consider the Gran Coupe variant.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the BMW 640d Coupe fuel-efficient?

Yes, it achieves up to 52.3 mpg officially, with real-world figures around 40-45 mpg, outperforming many petrol rivals.

How does it compare to the Gran Coupe?

The Coupe offers purer styling but less rear space; the Gran Coupe adds doors for practicality at similar performance.

What’s the top speed?

Electronically limited to 155 mph, with effortless high-speed stability.

Is it reliable?

With proper maintenance, yes—owners praise its smoothness, though diesel specifics require attention.

Suitable for daily driving?

Absolutely, its comfort and efficiency make it versatile beyond GT duties.