Traditional Styling Blending Convenience and Splendor

The new open-top 6 Series shares much of its appearance with the "Concept 6 Series Coupe" revealed at the Paris Motor Show in September, featuring a long hood, a forward-sloping grille, xenon headlights, and 18-inch alloy wheels (19-inch on the 650i). To prevent increased weight, it adopts a soft top, similar to the current model, rather than the increasingly common metal roof. The roof can be operated up to 25 mph (40 km/h), taking 19 seconds to open and 24 seconds to close.

The interior is finished in a style consistent with previous 6 Series models, but with a more refined selection of materials and a design prioritizing driver usability. Notably, the seats are upholstered in Dakota leather (Nappa leather with light-reflecting properties is optional), and a 10.2-inch iDrive display can show emails received on a smartphone (BlackBerry) via Bluetooth connection.

At launch, the 6 Series Cabrio will be available with two engine options. The 3.0-liter inline-six turbo in the 640i produces a maximum output of 239 kW (324 hp) and peak torque of 450 Nm (45.9 kgm). It can be paired with a 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission, achieving 0-100 km/h in 5.7 seconds, with a top speed electronically limited to 155 mph (250 km/h). CO2 emissions are reported to be 185 g/km.

The 4.4-liter V8 twin-turbo engine for the 650i delivers a maximum output of 304 kW (413 hp) and peak torque of 600 Nm (61.2 kgm). Like the 640i, its top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph (250 km/h). It accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 5.0 seconds, with CO2 emissions at 249 g/km.

To achieve BMW's signature handling, it features front double-wishbone and rear multi-link suspension made from reinforced aluminum. Dynamic Damper Control is standard, with an optional Active Roll Stabilization system further enhancing flat and stable cornering. Additionally, the Integral Active Steering system is available, balancing high-speed stability with maneuverability in urban settings like parking lots.

Compared to the current model, this new 6 Series is 74 mm longer, 39 mm wider, and 9 mm lower, offering a luggage capacity of 350 liters (300 liters with the roof open).

The launch is scheduled for March 2011 in Europe and next spring in the United States. Further details, including pricing, will be announced at a later date.

While we cannot yet see the car in motion, the following video allows you to observe the soft top quietly opening and other interior details.