HEADLESS SYSTEM
Another noticeable omission from the cockpit is a traditional head unit. The Six represents Alpine's new product direction by incorporating the new VehicleHub Pro OEM integration system that is the epicenter for the entire multimedia system. The wired rotary commander integrated into the left side of the cockpit puts control of all audio and video sources at arm's reach. The display from the VehicleHub Pro is cast upon any of the five 10-inch monitors positioned in front of the driver. The additional video sources, including DVD video, DVD navigation and rear-view cameras, can be directed to these monitors as well. The center channel components are integrated into the dash above and below the center screen, while the multiple front stage components surround the driver in the rotating cockpit. Additional components positioned behind the driver supply the rear fill that completes the 5-channel configuration.
A SHAPELY BEHIND
With styling cues reminiscent of mid-engine exotic sports cars, the rear half of the Six exemplifies the perfect blend of form and function. The shape of the vehicle would lead you to believe that there is a finely tuned V12 nestled between the broad rear fenders, when in fact a powerplant of a different nature inhabits this space. Viewable through the large acrylic window molded into the rear panel (which could easily be mistaken for a hood), nine PDX series amplifiers in three banks span the width of the vehicle. When the top panel retracts, the amplifiers are more visible, as is the detailed mechanical artwork airbrushed onto the trim panel. This artwork makes them appear more like a futuristic engine consuming the rear of the vehicle. To pay homage to its somewhat distant roots, a BMW emblem was molded into the center ridge of the top panel just below the Six's integrated rear spoiler.
UNCONVENTIONAL SUBS
Suffice to say that not one element of the Sinister Six could be labeled as conventional, and of course, the subwoofer configuration is no exception. A casual glance around the vehicle would provide no evidence of the presence of subs at all, unless of course, you are less than 2' tall. The reason for this is that the four 12" subs fire downward from under the rear of the vehicle. The sub enclosure is vented through a massive port that extends upward and exits directly behind the driver's head for maximum impact. Though this is quite an unusual configuration for subs, it definitely fits the theme of the vehicle as yet another unique element that does not detract from the stylized exterior. An attempt to identify precisely what makes the Sinister Six such an awe-inspiring showpiece would be futile at best. Some may be drawn to it solely based on aesthetics, while others may be more impressed with the multimedia aspect coupled with the monstrous audio system. Whatever the allure may be, one cannot overlook the level of detail exhibited in every element of the vehicle. With another project of this magnitude complete, we anxiously await to see what Brown and Bell have up their sleeves for next year.