BMW 6 Series Cabriolet: the start of a new generation

BMW has revealed the new generation of its 6 Series model with the unveiling of the Cabriolet body type version. The third generation of the 6 Series will reach the market in 2011.

The BMW 6 Series Cabriolet has drawn inspiration from the Concept 6-Series Coupe, presented at this year’s Geneva Motor Show, and features a long bonnet, a forward-slanted grille, xenon headlights, distinctive LED fog lights and 18-inch alloy wheels. In order to reduce the weight of the vehicle, BMW has opted to retain the 6-Series' double buttress soft top which can be lowered in 19 seconds and raised in 24 seconds at speeds up to 40km/h.

The third generation 6 Series Cabriolet will be offered at launch with two different engines: the 640i and the 650i.

The 640i is powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine that produces 320 hp and 450 Nm of torque. This engine enables the 6 Series Cabriolet to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 5.7 seconds and hit an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h. Its average fuel economy in the EU test cycle is expected to be 7.9 liters per 100 kilometers (35.8 mpg imp), corresponding to CO2 emissions of 185 grams per kilometer.

As for the 650i version, it will be powered by a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 engine with 407 hp and 600 Nm of torque. The 650i also reaches the electronically controlled top speed of 250 km/h and is able to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.0 seconds. With average fuel consumption of 10.7 liters per 100 kilometers in the EU test cycle (26.4 mpg imp) the 650i version will produce 249 grams of CO2 emissions per kilometer.

Both versions will be available with an eight-speed automatic transmission as standard.

In order to enhance 6 Series Cabriolet’s handling, BMW engineers have installed an advanced suspension which features an aluminum-intensive double wishbone front axle and a multi-link rear. Dynamic Damper Control is standard, but optional Active Roll Stabilization can also improve the stability in the convertible.

When compared to the previous 6 Series Cabriolet, the new one is 74mm longer, 39mm wider, and 9mm shorter, handing a larger rear passenger room and a bigger boot which holds up to 350 liters of luggage.

The convertible will be launched in Europe in March and U.S. sales are scheduled to begin in the spring.

You can also check a video about the new BMW 6 Series Cabriolet here