The new BMW X6 (G06) and the first-ever BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe (G16) marked their Austrian market debut with a press event held on the highest test track in Europe: the Sölden alpine resort. Just in time for the market launch in Austria, the new species of BMW coupes have been showcased to the public in the ski resort from the Ötztal Valley in the Eastern Alps. Extensive tests allowed Austrian and international media representatives to test the new BMW X6 and the all-new 8 Series Gran Coupe in extreme winter conditions.

At 2,830 meters above zero, the Ötztal glacier road is the highest road in the Eastern Alps. It connects the renowned winter ski resort of Sölden to the famous Rettenbach glacier. This is truly the perfect scenario for superlatives and the perfect location for the first appearance in Austria of the two newest BMW models in the luxury class.

Already in its third generation (G06), the new BMW X6 is itself a pioneer and daring venturer, defining an all new category of vehicles: the Sports Activity Coupe (SAC). In addition, the very first generation of the 8 Series Gran Coupe (G16) leads forward the heritage of the E31 ancestor and develops it into a special dynamic four-door coupe.

In deep winter conditions and under deep critical scrutiny by Austrian and international journalists, the two unconventional coupes demonstrated that they are much more than plain luxury automobiles. On ice and snow and fully equipped with winter tires, the BMW X6 and the BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe made clear statement to all testers: they are highly dynamic performance automobiles, which deliver pure driving enjoyment.

We were also fortunate to attend the BMW Winter Experience earlier this year and we shared our impressions in an extensive review. Below you will find some videos captured while on top of the Alps.

Prices for the Austrian market start at EUR 84,250 for the X6 xDrive30d and EUR 102,750 for the rear-traction 840i Gran Coupe. The range-topping M Performance are priced from EUR 120,850 for the X6 M50i version and a hefty EUR 143,250 for the M850i xDrive Gran Coupe.

See more of the X6 and 8 Series Gran Coupe in an exclusive photo gallery. They look simply gorgeous whilst playing in the snowy Austrian landscapes.