The last time BMW had a V12-powered coupe in its range was at the end of the previous decade with the range topping versions of the 8-Series (the 850Ci and 850CSi specifically). The reason why we mention this has to do with the Bavarian carmaker’s announcement on the world premiere of the one-off Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2013 on May 24.

Designed and created in collaboration with famed Italian design house Pininfarina, the Gran Lusso Coupé follows in the footsteps of the BMW Z4-based Zagato Coupé that was presented at last year’s Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este.

“This elaborate creation is a one-off that captivates the observer at first glance with its Italian exclusivity and modern finesse,” said BMW in a press statement. “Generous surface design and taut contours highlight an elegant vehicle body, while hallmark BMW proportions – a long wheelbase, stretched bonnet, short overhangs and a set-back greenhouse with smoothly sloping roofline – imbue the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé with authoritative dynamics even before a wheel has been turned.”

BMW also graced us with a sketch along with two cropped pictures of the large coupe model, but withheld the rest of the details on the car until the official presentation later this month. However, it’s probably safe to assume that the V12 engine will be based on the same 535hp 6.0-liter turbocharged unit that powers the 760Li.

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