It might not seem like it with winter approaching, but not so long around the corner warmer weather will be here.
And if you’re thinking about buying a new convertible now, it could be worth holding off until March 2021, when BMW’s new drop-top 4 Series arrives in showrooms, just in time for summer.
But what’s new on the 4 Series Convertible, and how does it vary to the Coupe? Let’s take a look.
New fabric roof
For two generations, BMW has adopted a folding metal hard top on this model, but for the new 4 Series, BMW is reverting back to an electric fabric roof instead.
There are two big advantages to this – the first is that it is clearer to identify it as a convertible than a metal roof, and the second is lightness, as this new roof is 40 per cent lighter than the outgoing model’s hardtop. That’s a significant weight saving.
BMW is also promising impressive acoustic and thermal comfort, with the roof available in black or grey as an optional extra. It also takes just 18 seconds to fold.
Striking design
One of the key talking points on the 4 Series Coupe has been the way it looks, and it’s a topic that has divided opinion hugely – not least the large version of BMW’s iconic kidney grille.
And now the Convertible adopts this look, too, with is triling front end, coupled with its new standard-fit LED headlights, though the rest of the car’s looks can’t be argued, as it’s a stunning piece of design, not least with the roof folded.
Longer and more spacious than its predecessor
While a coupe likely won’t be bought for practicality, the 4 Series Convertible has always aimed to be one of the more practical drop-tops you can buy today and a usable four-seater.
That’s something BMW has aimed to improve on the new car, with the new car being 128mm longer than its predecessor, and having a noticeably bigger wheelbase as well to improve the space on offer. The 385-litre boot is also impressively roomy.
New engine choice
Choice is key on the 4 Series Convertible, with a range of petrol and diesel models available, including the petrol 420i, 430i and M440i and the diesel 420d. Further diesels are also on the way.
Mild-hybrid engine technology has also been introduced, too, onto the diesel models and the new flagship M440i. The latter is the most powerful 4 Series yet (outside of the M4), with its 3.0-litre engine producing 369bhp and enabling a speedy sprint to 60mph in just 4.7 seconds.
More technology
Technology has moved on a long way since the last 4 Series Convertible debuted in 2014, so a lot of this new car is very different in this respect. It benefits from a new infotainment unit running on BMW’s operating system, which allows for enhanced connected services, along with BMW’s new ‘Intelligent Personal Assistance’ voice control. A large 10.25-inch touchscreen is also included, along with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
Prices for the new BMW 4 Series Convertible start from £45,785, with first deliveries expected in March 2021.
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