BMW's new 4-Series convertible is a larger version of the outgoing 3-Series model.
The 4-Series Convertible from BMW makes a much-anticipated debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show as BMW continues to expand its latest model line with new models.
The 4-Series is the next BMW vehicle going through the German maker’s new naming convention – first adopted with the 6-Series – in which premium two-door and cabriolet models adopt an even number model name and sedans take an odd number.
The all-new BMW 4-Series Convertible is coming to America with a longer wheelbase, wider track and lower ride height than the previous-generation BMW 3-Series Convertible that has been the soft top in the BMW line. Its lower suspension also brings down the car’s center of gravity for better driving dynamics.
The 4-Series' three-piece hard top can be opened or closed at speeds up to 11 mph.
But the new proportions mean the BMW convertible is visibly larger in width and wheelbase than the outgoing BMW 3-Series Convertible, and its stretched silhouette sits considerably lower to the road. This, together with its BMW-typical short overhangs, long hood and set-back passenger compartment with flowing roofline, give the BMW 4-Series Convertible a visual balance.
The car’s front end with its characteristic BMW design features, such as the double-kidney grille, four round headlights and a large air intake in the front apron display its family ties with the BMW 3-Series.
The design language of the new BMW 4-Series Convertible is also reflected in the car’s silhouette with balanced proportions when the top is down, and in the coupe-like profile of the roofline – without a B-pillar – when the hardtop is up.
The three-piece retractable hardtop is distinguished by advanced soundproofing with its “noise-absorbing” headliner, ensuring quietness and passenger comfort under all weather conditions – even in winter. The interior roof is fully lined and features integrated lights that add to the ambience expected of a premium sport coupe
The interior of the BMW 4-Series Convertible presents a stylish fusion of sporty and elegant.
The slightly larger wheelbase translates to a little more room inside the new 4-Series convertible.
All of the controls are arranged ergonomically around the driver to provide optimum access to all functions. The doors are designed so that all the lines converge towards the rear, and bright color combinations featuring a two-tone effect for the door and side panels, in combination with the hardtop cover, contribute to the “boat deck” look. This wrap-around interior design provides a cabin that allows all passengers to share the open-sky driving experience.
BMW also said the new car will come with superior driving dynamics, including steering accuracy, precision, linear control response. The chassis technology, near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution, fine tuning in the wind tunnel and lightweight construction will all play a part in giving the car impressive ride and handling characteristics.
(BMW reveals the new 2-Series Coupe. For more, Click Here.)
The new BMW 4-Series Convertible will be offered in the US as both a 428i, featuring BMW’s award-winning TwinPower Turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder and as a 435i with the multi-award winning TwinPower Turbo 3.0-liter inline six. Both will feature a standard eight-speed sport automatic transmission.
(Click Here for the early preview on the 4-Series.)
The 428i Convertible will be offered with a choice of rear-wheel drive or with optional xDrive, BMW’s intelligent all-wheel drive system, while the 435i Convertible will be available at launch with rear wheel drive.
The 2014 BMW 428i Convertible will have a base MSRP of $49,675, and the 2014 BMW 435i Convertible will have a starting price of $55,825. Both prices include $925 destination and handling. The 2014 BMW 4 Series Convertible will arrive in US showrooms in the first quarter of 2014.