New BMW 6 Series GT diesel model launched

BMW has added a 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine to the 6 Series Gran Turismo line-up. Badged the 620d, the new model becomes the most economical 6 Series GT available.

Despite depressed sales of diesel cars in the wake of CO2 emissions scandals and the introduction of a road-tax scheme that penalises diesel cars, BMW has added the 620d as a fifth engine choice for 6 Series GT buyers.

The 6 Series Gran Turismo – the five-door hatchback relative of the BMW 5 Series saloon and Touring estate – was previously offered with 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines only. Now smaller, more economical 2.0-litre diesel and petrol options have been added to the line-up. The 2.0-litre diesel engine under the bonnet of the 620d is shared with the BMW 3 Series and 4 Series. It produces 187bhp, which is claimed to take the spacious hatchback from 0-62mph in 7.9 seconds.

It's the economy rather than the performance figures that'll primarily attract most 620d buyers, though. BMW claims up to 58.8mpg is possible, which is considerably better than the 51mpg claimed by the 630d. CO2 emissions vary from 127 to 129g/km, depending on wheel size, which translates to a Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) tax rating of 30% for company-car users. All figures were measured using the latest WLTP measurement system for fuel consumption and emissions figures.

Buyers of the 620d GT will be offered a similar set of options to those available on the more expensive models, with active roll stabilisation, air suspension and active steering all available. An eight-speed automatic gearbox is standard, with manual gearchanges possible using column-mounted paddles or the gear selector itself.

Full price and availability details are expected to be released soon.