The 6 convertible is the most aspirational of BMW's full range, and the most enticing since the now passed Z8 roadster. But compared to the lovely Z8, the 6 is much more practical. With seating for four, a trunk large enough to carry two golf bags and a few tote bags with the top down, and comfort and convenience items to make Prince Rainier III of Monaco blush, BMW's new flagship makes purchasing the two-door a pragmatic decision.

The 6-Series convertible is easily the best execution of BMW's new design language to date. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

But while it's possible to calculate the pros against the cons and come out still being able to justify the purchasing decision, the 645 is more about passion. It's easily the best execution of the brand's new design language to date, with a sculpted hood and front fender lines, raised rear decklid and tasteful taillights, and exquisitely creased side marker lights, all masterful examples of complex curves and angles combining into one, completely cohesive modern art exhibit.

But art doesn't go as quickly as the 645 Ci Convertible. The 4.4-L engine's 325-horsepower revs to maximum with little effort, all the while pushing the big convertible forward with purposeful intensity. BMW states its zero to 100 km/h time is a mere 5.8 seconds, but my guess after taking the wheel was the German brand was once again being conservative.

More than just a show piece, the 645 Ci Convertible packs a 325-hp 4.4-L engine and can go from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.8 seconds. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

BMW offers three transmission choices, all no charge options. As previously mentioned I spent a fair bit of time with the automatic, which will probably be the gearbox of choice for the majority of owners. Fortunately it's a great piece of engineering, as smooth as Häagen-Dazs with no midriff side effects. I would opt for the 6-speed manual, which might just be the slickest shifters I've tried in ages. That said I spent time with BMW's sensational SMG 2.0 sequential manual with steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters in Spain and was duly impressed. No matter how you look at it the consumer wins, with BMW offering more drivetrain options than any of its rivals.