First drive: BMW 6 Series Convertible

It might not look it, but the launch of the Convertible BMW 6 Series is a significant one for BMW. Besides being a preview of what we might expect the new Coupe version to be like, it will also form the basis of a four-door coupe Gran Coupe that's expected to arrive next year to challenge the Audi A7 Sportback and Mercedes popular CLS.

It gets off to a good start in the looks department, with the Bangle-inspired flame surfaces of the last model softened. Longer, wider and lower than before, the new car is certainly stylish if not a natural beauty. I particularly like the high, defined shoulder line and the rear styling. The way the rear light clusters fold into the rear quarters looks particularly sleek.