Tightly curved surfaces and character lines stretching the full length of the body define the side view of the BMW 6-Series Coupe. The forward-slanting BMW kidney grille is particularly clear from this angle. Despite its smooth curves and innovative pedestrian protection measures, the long bonnet still has a flat appearance. Its contour lines fan out wide and extend towards the rear. In combination with the car's typical Coupe proportions, this creates a particularly elegant, elongated silhouette.

The exterior design has been inspired by waves with clearly defined lines and volume formed around an object in flowing water. This gives the new BMW 6-Series Coupe a naturally powerful and sporty edge. The typical BMW swage line extends out from behind the front wheel arch, takes in the sporty gill feature and extends dynamically along the flank of the car to the rear. In so doing, it stretches the new BMW 6-Series Coupe visually and lends it a dynamic yet elegant allure. The door handles are integrated precisely into the swage line. A further character line emerges from the swell of the front wheel arch, before dropping down between the gill and the door and then levelling out towards the rear, its path replicating a forward-surging wave. The door sill line underneath it and an additional crease give the lower edge of the body a light and sporty appearance.

The roofline of the new BMW 6-Series Coupe also swoops in an elegant, flat progression into the tail. It comes across as especially svelte when viewed from the side, creating a contrast typical of BMW Coupes between the powerful body and light passenger compartment. Doors with frameless windows underline this impression. The chromed side window border emphasises the "counter-swing" at the foot of the C-pillar (known as the Hofmeister kink) with its particularly tight line.