Just in time for warmer spring and summer fun, BMW introduces its all-new, third generation 2012 650i convertible.  It comes packaged with sleek and sexy styling,  excellent twin turbo-charged V8 power, a high-tech 8-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters, a fully-independent suspension with 4-modes, large, 4-wheel ventilated steel disc brakes, all riding on 20X9 inch alloy wheels that are wrapped with high-performance tires.  Under the skin this latest 6-Series BMW convertible has it all to keep any automotive enthusiast happy when behind the wheel.

This is only part of the 650i convertible as the interior is also new and very sumptuous with the latest innovative infotainment and safety features to keep you and your passengers’ safe.  The all-new third generation 650i convertible will be priced starting at $91,500.00.  My fully loaded test model stickered for $105,025.00.

The signature BMW dual kidney chrome grille, a black lower grille, a sweeping hood, aft-set passenger compartment, long wheelbase and muscular profile embody the hallmark proportions of a BMW convertible.  It combines these features with a classic multi-layered canvas soft-top roof with flying buttress design.  When the one-touch, automatic roof is lowered or raised in just 20 seconds you’ll notice a wide chrome strip from the windshield pillars to around the belt line and finishing at the rear of the thick convertible top giving the car a more elegant look.  HID and LED front and rear lamp clusters, lighted pull-out door handles, deep lower side extensions, a lip spoiler and wide, rectangular chrome dual exhaust tips are just a sampling of the cutting-edge exterior features.

Once inside you’ll be amazed at the power developed by the 4.4 liter, twin-turbocharged, all-aluminum V8 engine with high-precision direct injection that generates 400hp and 450lb.ft. of torque.  This unique ‘reverse-flow’ engine, whose turbochargers are positioned in the V-area between the cylinder banks, produces an instantaneous and sustained wave of power, making it an energetic delight for the enthusiast driver.

Mated to the all-new 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters enables you to keep in low gear up to redline, with sprints to 60mph from a standstill in less than 5-seconds.  The launch control feature is spectacular as you are firmly pinned to the seatback as you rocket out from a standstill. This high-performance powertrain returns a respectable 16mph/city and 24mpg/highway.

Your driving fun and enjoyment is further enhanced with the standard Driving Dynamics Control that gives you four settings to choose from depending on how you want your car to respond-COMFORT, NORMAL, SPORT AND SPORT + modes using the large rocker switch on the center console.  The fully independent suspension features a double wishbone front axle, active dampers, coil springs and stabilizer bar, while the multi-link rear axle features active dampers, coil springs and a stabilizer bar.  The chassis is geared to the requirements of drivers with sporting intentions but a comfortable ride over poorly paved roads is ensured in the comfort mode.  The all-new 650i is the first car in its class that can be equipped with Integral Active Steering.  This system combines the Active Steering system for the front axle with a new, steerable rear axle.  Precisely harmonized steering angle movements at both axles create a virtual lengthening or shortening of the vehicle’s wheelbase, which fosters great high-speed stability and enhanced maneuverability in city traffic.

Quickly and safely slowing you down from speed are large 13.7 inch, vented front discs clamped with 4-piston calipers, while 13.6 inch vented discs clamped with dual-piston calipers are in the rear.  Precision and effectiveness is reinforced with Dynamic Stability Control, ABS, Traction Control, Cornering Brake Control, Dynamic Brake Control, and an automatic Brake Drying function with Brake Fade Compensation, all working together to give you more power and control in emergency situations or when braking on slick pavement.

The new 650i convertible rides on stunning, lightweight aluminum wheels, 20X8.5in. up front and 20X9in. in the rear.  These sporty wheels are wrapped with super-high-performance Dunlop, low profile tires-245/35R20 up front and 275/30R20in. rear tires for incredible grip and a smooth ride.

The comfortable and elegant interior is designed to be a 2+2 with the traditional BMW driver-oriented cockpit.  Its interior offers 14-way power adjustable, Nappa leather front bucket seats with variable side bolstering and heating/cooling functions.  High quality leather, wood and chrome are meticulously formed to produce an ambience defined by luxury, a sweeping style and Teutonic functionality.  The driver oriented cockpit layout features a central section of the instrument panel, containing the iDrive system’s Central Display, the air vents and the controls for the Surround Sound AM/FM/CD/DVD/MP3/iPod/Sirius Satellite premium audio system and A/C, all angled slightly toward you.  The gearshift lever and switches for the electronic parking brake, roof operation and Driving Dynamics Control are located on a surface that opens out toward you and is set lower than the front passenger side of the center console.  Control and comfort come naturally.

Standard equipment includes a rearview camera, ambient lighting, Park Distance Control, navigation system, Bluetooth, all express up/down windows, power door locks, heated side mirrors, self-dimming rearview mirror, dynamic cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, thick pile carpeting with floor mats, dual map and vanity mirror lights.  Safety systems include driver/front passenger airbags, side-impact airbags, 3-point safety belts, push button start/stop, keyless entry, tire pressure monitoring system, rollover protection, and front/rear/side crush protection.

The all-new 2012 BMW 650i convertible is one of the best 2+2 luxury sport coupes on the market combining the best from BMW’s long history of offering the Ultimate Driving Machine!

COPYRIGHT: 2012: HARVEY SCHWARTZ

SPECIFICATIONS

• Price: Base 650i Convertible MSRP $90,500 As-Tested $105,025
• Engine: 4.4 liter, all-alloy, 32-valve, twin-power turbo, high precision direct injection, 4-overhead camshafts, and double-VANOS steplessly variable valve timing 400 horsepower @ 5500 rpm / 450 ft. lbs. torque @ 1750 rpm
• Transmission: 8-speed automatic with paddle shifting sequential drive
• Total length: 192.8in.
• Total width: 74.6in.
• Total height: 53.7in.
• Wheelbase: 112.4in.
• Track: f/r-62.8/65in.
• Legroom: f/r-42.1/30.5in.
• Headroom: f/r-40.3/36.5in.
• Turning circle: 38.4ft.
• Fuel tank: 18.5 gallons
• Curb weight: 4,497lbs.
• 0-60 mph: 4.9 seconds