2012 BMW 650i Cabriolet Review (video)

Restyled, re-equipped and re-powered for 2012, the BMW 6 Series is entering its second generation with a laundry list of changes and updates.

Key among them?

New turbocharged powerplants, more digestible styling, and more high-tech goodies than ever. Oh and, of course, the droptop 6 Series Cabriolet model has made a return, too.

Restyled, re-equipped and re-powered for 2012, the BMW 6 Series is entering its second generation with a laundry list of changes and updates. (Photo: Justin Pritchard/Auto123.com)

Classy yet again
The tested 650i convertible is a seriously classy piece of hardware. If the detailed and elegant body didn't give that away, plenty of things on-board will. Self-sealing doors, heated and chilled massaging seats, many square feet of stitched leather and a heated steering wheel were all fitted. Ditto a cabin air filtration system, dark wood trim and motorized or automatic everything. Heck, there's even a carpeted glovebox.

In typical BMW fashion, the 650i's cabin blends luxury and ultra high tech in a virtually seamless manner, with leather and contrasting stitching broken up with numerous control panels, displays and consoles.

Gadgets, anyone?
Some of these control such things as the 650i's adjustable drive mode selector, which allows switching between several comfortable or sporty vehicle calibrations on the fly. Or the various radar-guided warning systems. Or the all-commanding iDrive system. Or the Night Vision system, which uses thermal imaging for early detection of roadgoing creatures lurking just ahead of headlight range.

Extra points for the magnificent stereo system and massive infotainment screen, too.

Roof-optional driving
The tester's roof can be dismissed in a matter of seconds at the touch of a button, and operates in both directions at up to 40 kilometres per hour. Translation? If that traffic light turns green a little early, one needn't make motorists wait for the conclusion of their hardtop panel gymnastics display before taking off.