A new convertible version of BMW’s super-high-performance M6 coupe will hit showrooms this fall. Mechanically identical to the coupe, the convertible comes with a fully automatic, retractable, multilayered fabric top that keeps the cockpit well insulated from noise and the elements when the weather turns nasty.

Like the 650i convertible on which it’s based, the new BMW M6 convertible features a unique glass rear window that can be raised and lowered independently of the folding fabric top. When left up while the top is down, it serves as a wind blocker to quell cabin turbulence — or it can allow more ventilation when lowered while the top is up.

The BMW M6 Convertible is a unique performer featuring the internationally acclaimed engine of the year – the 5.0-liter V10 – which produces an awesome 500 bhp and maximum torque of 383 lb-ft. With a suspension developed for supreme dynamics and a Sequential M Gearbox (SMG) complete with Drivelogic, this ultimate power unit turns the latest product from BMW M into an open sports car able to accelerate to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds.Measuring 190 inches in length, BMW M’s new high-performance convertible is about 2 inches longer than the BMW 6 Series Convertible due to its rear air dam, optimized for supreme aerodynamic performance.

The roof of the BMW M6 convertible is made of three layers. A special noise and heat insulating layer of polyurethane (PUR) foam comes between the rubberized outer layer and the interior roof lining. Thanks to its unique fin-roof look, the soft top boasts the same dynamic contours as the Coupe. The wide C-pillar is characterised by BMW’s famous Hofmeister ‘kick’.A vertically positioned rear window can be electrically adjusted to move up or down, regardless of whether the roof itself is open or closed. The roof itself can be opened or closed either by remote control or via a button on the instrument panel with the entire process either way taking less than 25 seconds.

The heart and soul of the BMW M6 is a brawny, 5.0-liter V10 that it shares with the M5 sedan. It’s mated to the industry’s first seven-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG), also found on the M5, which is essentially a manual transmission whose clutch is engaged automatically (there’s no clutch pedal). Gears are selected by tapping paddles behind the steering wheel or by using the stubby shift lever on the center console. An “automatic” mode shifts gears for the driver, approximating a traditional automatic transmission, though it isn’t as smooth in operation.

Standard Engine:

5.0L V10, 40 valve, 500 hp @ 7750 rpm

• 7 speed manual transmission
• 12 mpg city / 19 mpg hwy
• Green Rating: Unavailable

Standard Features:

• Passenger Airbag Cutoff Sensor
• M Variable Locking Differential
• Wireless Communication Access For Bluetooth(R) Enabled Devices