Despite its commanding size, the 6-Series Cabriolet only accommodates four occupants. Access to the rear seats proves challenging, but once you get there, you'll feel totally at ease (unless you're taller or larger than most). On the other hand, storage compartments are at a premium, both up front and in the back.

The significant weight does not prevent the car from attacking sharp turns at their apex.

As for the stereo, sound quality is good but changing radio stations requires too much attention. I did like the retro-looking display, though.

On the road
The 2008 6-Series Cabriolet is a BMW through and through. It swallows miles and miles of open road in smooth, comfortable fashion. The significant weight does not prevent the car from attacking sharp turns at their apex. The Dynamic Drive Package with the automaker's Active Steering technology is really worth it; you can steer the vehicle with pinpoint accuracy in corners.

My only complaint is the sloping silhouette of the 6-Series. While I got used to it after a while, I found it difficult to locate the actual edges of the car, which made city driving and parking harder. The considerable width must also be taken into account during lateral transitions.

In terms of performance, I would say that buyers get two cars for the price of one. In normal driving conditions, the 650i is a smooth and quiet cruiser. However, in Sport mode, the mighty V8 unleashes all its 360 horsepower. It took me 4.27 seconds to sprint from 80 to 120 km/h. The 6-speed automatic transmission does an honorable job, allowing this heavy convertible to reach 100 km/h in less than 7 seconds (again, in Sport mode).

Having said all that, the most satisfying aspect of the car, in my mind, is the exceptional braking performance. A distance of 28 meters was all it required to stop from 100 to 0 km/h.

The soul and reputation of a BMW
This was my first-ever experience behind the wheel of a BMW 6-Series and I couldn't have been more stoked. This cabriolet turns every head it comes across, including policemen's. One of them even pulled me over despite letting three other guilty drivers fly by at the same speed. I guess that's the price you pay for such a killer-looking machine.

This cabriolet turns every head it comes across, including policemen's.

Photo Credit : Philippe Champoux, Matthieu Lambert