2009 BMW 650i Convertible photos

BMW's 6-series became legendary when launched in the late 1970s, and acquired the appellation "shark" for its body style. BMW's revival of the 6-series lacks the styling of the original, but modern BMW driving characteristics are excellent.

The 2009 650i gets some minor styling updates, such as a strip of LEDs above the headlights. High intensity headlights come standard with the 650i.

Belying the car's designation, the engine is actually a 4.8-liter. This V-8 produces 360 horsepower and 360 pound-feet of torque.

This convertible version of the 650i has a power-operated soft-top. We found it's not particularly fast. A special control lets you roll down the rear window.

The 650i is a couple configuration with two seats in the rear that won't prove very useful, as the front seats cut off leg room.

The worst design element of the 650i is the trunk lid. Lacking the nice slant of the original 6-series, the rear of the 650i rises up, forming a vestigial spoiler, while rounded rear fenders seem out of place.

Trunk room is better than we've seen in other convertible coupes. The top doesn't compromise space to a great degree.

The cabin is comfortable for front passengers, and these seats are covered with optional high-grade leather.

BMW keeps it interior design relatively simple, and tends toward metals and plastics rather than wood.

Key cabin electronics can be controlled with steering wheel buttons. BMW also has unique programmable buttons on the right spoke.

The head up display is an optional feature in the 650i Convertible. It shows the car's speed projected on the windshield, and route guidance information when a destination has been set with the navigation system.

The six-speed-automatic transmission is programmed well, actively downshifting when you hit the brakes. A six speed manual is also available.

The 650i uses the old iDrive interface, reason enough to wait for the model update before making a purchase.

The navigation system in the 650i, which comes standard, is DVD-based, resulting in slow operation. But it does have live traffic with active detouring.

An iPod and USB connector comes as part of the Premium sound package.

The iPod interface works OK, although the iDrive-style interface isn't our favorite.

Bluetooth phone support is standard in the 650i, and lets you view a phone's contact list with the car's interface.