6-Series convertible

Who says pre-production testing has to be boring? Our photographers caught this 2010 6-Series prototype kicking up snow whilst powersliding around Scandinavia.

The overall shape and size of the new car seems to have remained much the same, but reports suggest that the new convertible will be more refined, with every panel on the car being replaced. A welcome sight is the canvas soft-top which dispels fears of a heavy folding roof sapping performance and limiting boot space.

The engine line-up won't look too dissimilar from the current range either, so expect to see updated versions of the 4.8-litre V8 and 3.0-litre petrol engines and the twin-turbocharged six cylinder diesel engine.

BMW's Efficient Dynamics updates, including Stop/Start and regenerative braking will also be available on the 6-Series for the first time and in the flagship 'M' model, the huge V10 engine is likely to be replaced by a more efficient turbocharged V8.

The new 6-Series is expected to be unveiled at next year's Geneva Motor Show.