Paris 2010: 6-Series Coupe Concept Proves Good Looking BMWs are Back

It is clear that the last-generation of BMWs wasn't well received stylistically by the automotive press, and by a lot of consumers as well.

However, as we've said before, that didn't prove to be a damper to the brand's success, as more BMWs were sold than ever before. However, we would surmise that was likely in spite of their styling, not because of it.

Anyhow, BMW has seen the error of its ways and is returning to a styling path similar to the one it was on before the Chris Bangle detour.

The 7-Series, 5-Series GT and new 5-Series are all much improved. The Gran Coupe Concept really sealed the deal, and now comes the Concept 6-Series.

The 6-Series Concept wears the "concept" title, but it is little more than a thinly-disguised production vehicle. And to us, that is a very good thing.

Up front there is headlights with small inlets underneath them and a nearly full-length air dam that aims to emphasize width.

The headlights are the first all-LED setup from BMW, and with their circular rings aim to evoke the dual-headlight BMW designs of the past

The current 6-Series is definitely not one of the best looking BMWs ever made, but the next-generation iteration, due in 2012, looks to make a complete turnaround.

The 6-Series is long, low and wide, with excellent proportions.It builds on the changes of the 7-Series and 5-Series, and takes them even further.

It is most similar overall to the range-topping 7-Series, and that makes sense given its positioning just under that car. Similarity to the 7 can only be interpreted as a good thing in our eyes, as it is our favorite of the new BMWs. Impressed? Definitely - this is a very good looking Gran Turismo coupe from BMW.

Another BMW criticism, even on stellar products like the 3-Series, is interiors. They look a bit bit outdated and austere, and have the lost a driver-centric approach in design.

BMW seems to be going back to what works (or what got them praise in the press) in the interior as well, with a center stack canted toward the driver making a return. The change is much welcomed.

Austerity is being addressed with some new colors combinations and unique trims. We like how BMW is experimenting like this.

The 6-Series adds wood trim in the mix and a two-tone color scheme that works with the contours of the asymmetrical interior design. There is also some nice new detailing to the vents and steering wheel.

For now, that's all we have on BMW's latest concept. There should be more details forthcoming as we get closer to the Paris Auto Show. For now, we say congratulations BMW for making good looking cars again.