|
|---|
Sunday, May 26, 2013
Pininfarina set out to create a modern interpretation of BMW's heritage, while maintaining strong links with the brand's current design language. Technical details are sparse, but it’s safe to assume that the Gran Lusso Coupé is powered by the same twin-turbo V-12 that propels the 760i with unwavering authority.
The front end of the Gran Lusso Coupé might the most convincing interpretation of the traditional BMW "shark nose" since BMW abandoned this element in the E36 3-series. The front end angles downward and rearward while featuring a large kidney grille and lower air intakes that appear to be inspired by the Concept 4-series Coupe, albeit in far more discreetly. The pair of LED headlamps are positioned behind a glass screen, and to some observers, they might evoke memories of the 1965 2000 CS coupe.
In profile, there’s a fresh interpretation of BMW's current design language. There’s a pronounced character line that drops down from the front fender and gradually rises as it moves toward the rear bumper. Here, the Gran Lusso beautifully incorporates the "air breathers"—BMW-speak for fender vents—which look like clumsy afterthoughts when applied to the 3-series Gran Turismo and the upcoming 4-series. The door handles are gorgeously flush, a welcome change to the protruding disturbances found on the vast majority of today's vehicles.
BMW and Pininfarina have fitted the Gran Lusso Coupé with two-tone, 21-inch wheels that feature 15 spokes. In each cluster of three spokes, the center spoke is finished in a darker hue, which gives the subtle appearance of sporty five-spoke wheels while maintaining the elegance of a multi-spoke roller. The side windows are uninterrupted by a B-pillar, which is a free-standing element hidden behind the glass. A classic interpretation of the Hofmeister kink makes room for a prominent “V12” logo, and the C-pillars are raked at a different angle than the rear window, resulting in a slightly buttress-like appearance that’s reminiscent of Jaguar’s XJ-S. (This is a typical Pininfarina element, seen, for instance, on the Lancia Flaminia Coupé.) The Gran Lusso Coupé's rear end is dominated by a pair of large, trapezoidal chrome exhaust finishers, and a slim taillight that stretches across the full width of the car. A long and thin glass opening resides on the roof, which is designed to let light pour into the car.
Thanks to: Car and Driver
0 Comments:
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
LinkWithin
