BMW 6-Series Convertible: power and poise

It’s also the slickest-looking Beemer for years in my eyes.

Both lower and wider than its predecessor, it has real road presence.

There’s little aural drama to be had from dropping the top with BMW’s trusted three-litre, six-cylinder twin-turbocharged power plant under the bonnet but style, power and poise are present in abundance...

Here’s my quick five-star guide to the new 640i.

BMW 640i Convertible

Engine: 2,979cc, twin turbocharged, six-cylinder, petrol

Power: 320bhp and 332lb.ft. of torque

Acceleration (0-62mph): 5.7 seconds

Top Speed: 155mph

Economy: 35mpg

Price: £65,695

Overall rating: * * * * *(out of five).

Style: * * * * *

“Aside from the muscularity of BMW’s subtly pumped-up M-cars, the 6-Series is probably it’s most handsome car in recent years.

“Low, broad and smooth-as-you-like, it’s appearance received all-round approval during my test and succeeded in hitting the right note between purposeful poise and premium polish.

“A sizable bonnet and stubby rear quarters mean the car has a classic grand tourer profile.”

Specification and Value: * * * *

“A range of options that can equip the new 6-Series with more technology than an Apache combat helicopter but there’s also a impressive standard spec.

“A huge 10.2inch widescreen displaying Sat-Nav and stereo to the images from the excellent optional 360 degree reversing cameras works in-line with head-up display projected onto the inside of the windscreen.

“Everything from night vision to BMW’s first automatic parking system is available.

There’s even a system which can read out emails from your iPhone or Blackberry.”

Performance: * * * * *

“The 640i will sprint to 62mph just 0.7 seconds slower than the V8-engined 650i and boasts 35mpg claimed fuel consumption, which I was able to match on a motorway run.

“But it’s the engine’s torque rich delivery that truly impresses, pulling from low revs while serving up a surge of a performance towards the top end of the rev range.

“BMW’s eight speed, twin-clutch gearbox, barely punctuates the surging acceleration with quick-fire changes.

“I do have reservations about the auto ‘box in stop-start traffic—where it can be clunky and unpredictable—but once up and running the 6-Series is every bit the smooth riding luxury tourer.”