Does the BMW 6 Series Come in a 2019 Model

Does the BMW 6 Series Come in a 2019 Model? The Complete Guide

BySarah Rogers Hours Updated on

The BMW 6 Series has long occupied a top spot in the hearts of luxury sports coupe enthusiasts. With its powerful performance, sleek styling, and premium cabin, the 6 Series became an aspirational icon for BMW.

But in recent years, BMW has reshuffled its vehicle lineup, retiring some long-running nameplates in favor of new models.

So for BMW fans, an important question arises – does the 6 Series still come in a 2019 model?

The short answer is no, BMW did not release a 2019 model year version of the 6 Series.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the full story behind this decision and the future prospects for the storied 6 Series line.

Whether you’re a current BMW owner, a fan of the 6 Series, or just love luxury coupes, read on for a deep dive into the past, present, and future of the BMW 6 Series.

A Brief History of the BMW 6 Series

To understand the current status of the 6 Series, let’s first travel back through the timeline of this iconic vehicle:

  • 1976 – BMW launches the original 6 Series as a luxurious coupe and cabriolet aimed at the premium sports car market. This first-generation 6 Series is produced through 1989.
  • 2003 – After a 14 year hiatus, BMW brings back the 6 Series in an all-new model debuting as a 2004 version. Now built on BMW’s advanced E63/E64 platform, the new 6 Series coupe and convertible models are positioned above the 5 Series as BMW’s flagship coupe.
  • 2010 – The second-generation 6 Series is refreshed with updated engine choices, technology features, and styling cues. A 4-door Gran Coupe model also joins the lineup in 2012, broadening the appeal.
  • 2017 – The current and third generation 6 Series is introduced, featuring a completely redeveloped chassis, engines, and interior. It represents the most technologically advanced 6 Series to date.

Over the decades, the BMW 6 Series established itself as the pinnacle of BMW’s luxury sport coupes, loved by enthusiasts for its combination of power, handling, styling, and premium cabin comforts. It served as BMW’s flagship coupe model positioned above the 5 Series range.

The Fate of the 6 Series in 2019

Beginning in 2018, BMW started signaling big changes were ahead for the 6 Series.

Specifically:

  • In May 2018, BMW announced the all-new 8 Series coupe would launch to replace the 6 Series at the top of BMW’s luxury coupe lineup.
  • Simultaneously, they confirmed the current 6 Series would end production in 2018 as the 8 Series takes over as BMW’s new flagship coupe.
  • No new 2019 model year 6 Series vehicles would be produced. The 2018 model year marked the end of the line for the 6 Series in its most recent generation.

This meant BMW intentionally chose not to develop or release a 2019 model of the 6 Series. The model was phased out permanently in favor of shifting resources to the new 8 Series.

So for prospective buyers interested in a 2019 model year 6 Series – unfortunately, no such option exists on the market.

Why Did BMW Retire the 6 Series Name?

BMW’s decision to retire the 6 Series didn’t happen suddenly. It was the result of careful analysis around market factors and future product plans.

Here are some of the key reasons BMW likely decided to move on from the 6 Series in favor of vehicles like the new 8 Series:

  • Declining Coupe Sales – Coupe sales have slowed globally in recent years as buyer preferences shift to SUVs and crossover vehicles. BMW needed a fresh new entrant to regain momentum in the luxury coupe segment.
  • Positioning a New Flagship – The 8 Series provides an opportunity to reposition the 6 Series into an even more high-end, exclusive space as BMW’s coupe flagship.
  • Leveraging the 8 Series Name – BMW wants to take greater advantage of the equity and nostalgia of the “8 Series” nameplate for this new coupe.
  • Expanding the 8 Series Line – BMW plans to build out a full portfolio of 8 Series models over time, including coupe, cabriolet, Gran Coupe, and potential M8 high performance versions.
  • Making Room for New Models – Retiring the 6 Series opened up showroom space and resources for BMW to continue expanding into new vehicle categories.

Given these strategic considerations, BMW leadership determined ending 6 Series production in 2018 to make room for the new 8 Series was the right long-term play for the business and brand.

Will the 6 Series Make a Comeback?

With the 6 Series riding off into the sunset, is there any chance of it returning in the future?

The possibility can’t be ruled out entirely, but a 6 Series comeback seems unlikely in the near future.

Here are some factors that reduce the chances we’ll see a revived 6 Series model anytime soon:

  • BMW’s Current Priorities – Right now, BMW is focused on launching and marketing the new 8 Series and other fresh models. Reviving an older nameplate like 6 Series doesn’t appear to be on their immediat radar.
  • Lack of Market Demand – With coupe sales declining, BMW would need to see demand swing back up significantly before warranting invest in a 6 Series return. The market may have simply moved on.
  • Possible Confusion with 6 Series GT – BMW will continue making the 6 Series Gran Turismo hatchback for the foreseeable future. Bringing back a 6 Series coupe could create name overlap and confusion.
  • Investment in Future Models – BMW is prioritizing development of next-gen electric and autonomous vehicles. Reviving the 6 Series would divert resources away from these futuristic models.

However, there are scenarios where BMW might consider a new 6 Series down the road:

  • Nostalgia Factor – If the 6 Series name garners enough fondness and enthusiasm over time, BMW could revive it for the publicity and fan excitement.
  • Electric Vehicle Strategy – A new 6 Series could resurface as a high-end electric model as BMW rolls out more EVs in coming years. The name could help market these new technology vehicles.
  • Changing Market Conditions – If coupe demand spikes again, a 6 Series return might make sense to fill this niche.

BMW seems set on the 8 Series coupe for now, but never say never. The iconic 6 Series badge could grace BMW’s lineup again given the right conditions.

Conclusion

The BMW 6 Series has cultivated an impressive following and legacy over its more than 40 years as BMW’s premier luxury coupe. But due to shifting consumer preferences and BMW’s evolving model strategies, the company elected not to develop a 2019 model year version of the 6 Series.

While 6 Series devotees may miss seeing this badge on dealership lots, the new 8 Series has taken up the mantle and will strive to build its own legend going forward.

For potential 6 Series buyers in 2019 and beyond, the closest equivalents within BMW’s current lineup are the 8 Series coupe and cabriolet models.

This guide has taken you through the key factors behind BMW’s decision to retire the 6 Series – at least for now. But given the iconic status of this vehicle, we may not have seen the last of the 6 Series name.

BMW will continue shaping its vehicle portfolio to match market dynamics and future trends. And who knows, perhaps one day in the not-too-distant future, this celebrated badge could once again grace an exciting new luxury coupe wearing the BMW Roundel.

Sarah Rogers

As BMW Insights' lead test driver, my passion began reading car magazines as a teen. With a journalism degree and experience testing hundreds of vehicles, BMW quickly became my favorite for its blend of performance, luxury, and tech. Extensive BMW performance training gives me a racer's perspective. I provide concise, analytical test drives and comparisons between the latest BMWs and competitors, sharing inside insights into the world of BMW.

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