BMW won't build M4 Gran Coupe
Fri, 04 Jul 2014Over the last few years, it feels like BMW has looked at its lineup and decided to offer a vehicle in every possible segment that it can find, no matter how small. The company is finally showing some restraint, though, at least when it comes to the high performance M division. For example, don't expect to see an M4 Gran Coupe at your local BMW dealer in the future.
M GmbH sales chief Jörg Bartels told Cars Guide in Australia, "It was definitely considered, but there is no plan to build an M4 Gran Coupe." The sport sedan just wouldn't make financial sense, he said. BMW already builds the M3 and M4 at separate factories, adding a third for such a niche model would be too much. Plus, the M3 already fills out the segment.
If you wanted an M model with a bit more storage space in the back, Bartels dashed those dreams, as well. He said that there isn't an M3 Gran Turismo hatchback in the pipeline, either.
That only leaves the M4 Convertible as the third member of the M3/M4 family, and it's hitting US showrooms this summer. Maybe, BMW is learning that less is more and is putting the brakes on the expansion.
By Chris Bruce
See also: BMW confirms new Mexican plant, Will global automakers drop local JV partners if China's government says they can?, Behind the Scenes of BMW's 'Drift Mob,' Part 2 [w/video].