Sleek new styling sets off the 2012 BMW 650i convertible, and the classic proportions take an already-striking four-passenger convertible into a new realm. The BMW 650i convertible sits at the pinnacle of the premium four-seat convertible class.
The 2011 650i convertible (MSRP $90,500) uses BMW’s 4.4-liter TwinPower turbocharged V8 to apply 400 hp and 450 lb/ft of torque to the tarmac. An available eight-speed Sport Automatic Transmission handles the gear changes and maximizes engine speed to deliver stunning performance. The gearbox is designed with minimal torque converter slip for responsiveness, and it packs its eight gears into a compact, lightweight package.
Drive Dynamics Control sets the overall mood with selectable “Comfort” and “Sport” modes for engine and chassis response, and the automatic transmission’s eight closely-spaced ratios make quick work of acceleration or help boost efficiency when you’re cruising along, relaxed. The available Integral Active Steering also varies its power assistance and ratio according to the driving mode that’s selected.
The twin-turbocharged V8 uses a high technology combination of direct fuel injection, dual VANOS variable valve timing and four overhead camshafts for responsive power that also maximizes efficiency. BMW’s Efficient Dynamics philosophy drives the inclusion of technology like Brake Energy Regeneration, which recharges the battery during braking, rather than losing all of the energy as heat the way most vehicles do. The engine’s cooling system is also electronically controlled for precise and efficient operation.
It wouldn’t be a BMW if it didn’t handle with the trademark performance. The 650i convertible has a well-balanced chassis and near-optimal 50.4/49.6 percent front to rear weight distribution. To well-engineered basics, BMW adds available Active Roll Stabilization, which cancels out body lean during cornering. Speed-sensitive Servotronic steering is electrically driven, unique in this class of vehicles, and with the optional Integral Active Steering, the assist and steering ratio are automatically adjusted to make the 650i convertible a telepathic partner at both parking lot and highway speeds. Dynamic Stability Control includes Brake Fade Compensation, Brake Drying and Dynamic Traction Control to maintain the 650i convertible’s performance even when you’re working it hard or running in a torrential downpour.
Standard Nappa leather upholstery covers the 20-way power adjustable front seats, which feature four-way lumbar adjustment, adjustable backrest width, thigh support and an articulated upper backrest to hold you snugly when exercising the car’s formidable handling. Standard wood trim in fine-line oak or gray poplar, and brushed aluminum trim is also a no-cost choice. Standard BMW iDrive provides a freestanding Control Display in the driver-oriented cockpit. Many functions for communication, entertainment and vehicle setup are right at the driver’s fingertips with this continually advancing system that kicked off a revolution when it was introduced.
To up the technology quotient, add the available Driver Assistance Package and you’ll receive Lane Departure Warning, Head Up Display, Surround View and the BMW Parking Assistant to help take the sweat out of driving. Smartphones and music players can be tightly integrated into the onboard technology in the 650i convertible. BMW ConnectedDrive even offers Internet access and the ability to display e-mail messages from your smartphone on the Control Display. Navigation and entertainment via Internet-based services is also possible with BMW ConnectedDrive.
The Cold Weather Package makes winter weather more bearable by adding heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, as well as equipping the 650i convertible with a ski bag, showing BMW’s confidence that this is a convertible that’s meant to be enjoyed all year. Active, ventilated front seats are available in the Luxury Seating Package, and entertainment options increase when buyers select the Premium Sound Package, which adds a premium audio system with one year SIRIUS Satellite Radio subscription and iPod and USB connections.
Further personalization is available through individual options like 20-inch V-spoke alloy wheels carrying high-performance tires, Night Vision with Pedestrian Detection and a leather-covered instrument panel. Peace of mind is included with the 650i convertible in the form of BMW Ultimate Service to cover regular scheduled maintenance for the first four years or 50,000 miles of ownership. The 650i convertible carries a four-year/50,000-mile warranty.
The 2012 BMW 650i convertible is the latest expression of BMW’s tradition of building premium high-performance convertibles that are laden with luxury as well. As with the cars that came before it, the 650i convertible defines itself as the class benchmark.
