BMW unveils the all-new 6-Series Convertible

The car is based on the 6-Series Coupe Concept that was shown at the Paris Motor Show, and has grown bigger all around from its predecessor. The new 6-Series is now 4894mm long, 74mm longer than the previous model, while the wheelbase now measures in at 2855mm. The car is also 39mm wider, at 1894mm, while the height has been reduced by 9mm, to 1365mm.

BMW says that the 6-Series Convertible's fabric roof folds down in 19 seconds and up in 24 seconds, and can be operated at speeds of up to 40km/h. The new lightweight design of the roof is half the weight of its predecessor, while static torsional rigidity is also 50 percent more than the previous model. With the top down, the 6-Series Convertible offers 300 litres of boot space, enough for two golf bags and a suitcase, according to BMW. Closing the roof increases the luggage capacity to 350 litres.

BMW has only announced details of the 650i Convertible at the show, which is powered by a 4.4-litre turbocharged V8 with direct injection, and churns out 400bhp and 600Nm of torque. The engine is available with either BMW's new 8-speed Sport automatic transmission or a 6-speed manual gearbox.

Both gearboxes are able to send the 650i Convertible from 0-100km/h in 4.9 seconds, and reach its electronically-limited top speed of 250km/h. Other engines expected to be made available for the new 6-Series could include a straight-six turbo, as well as the range-topping M6 variant with a turbocharged V8.

The new 6-Series is also expected to come with numerous BMW technology systems, such as Driving Dynamics Control, Brake Energy Regeneration system, LED fog lamps and lights and an optional Active Roll Stabilization feature that reduces body roll in high-speed corners and in sudden changes of direction.