BMW has introduced its new 2014 4-series convertible ahead of its public debut at the Motor Show scheduled for next month in Los Angeles.
The 2014 BMW 4-series Convertible is longer and wider than the outgoing 3-Series Convertible. It is identical to the newly introduced 4-Series coupe right from belt lines to the rocker panels. Until now, 4 Series has only be sold as a coupe, but with the addition of the convertible, things are looking up.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Convertible | Base Price: NA |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.9 gals (60 L) | Miles Per Gallon: 20 city / 37 hwy |
| Length: 182.6 in. (463.8 cm) | Wheel Base: 110.6 in. (281 cm) |
| Height: 54.5 in. (138.4 cm) | Width: 79.4 in. (201.7 cm) |
| Unladen Weight: 4001 lbs (1815 kg) | Maximum Seating: 4 people |
| Engine: Inline 6 Twin Turbo | Displacement: 3.0 Liter |
| Horsepower: 306 HP | Max RPM: 5800-6000 rpm |
| Torque: 295 lb-ft @ 1200-5000 | Transmission: 6-Speed Manual |
| 0-60 mph: 5.6 seconds | Maximum Speed: 155 mph* (250 km/h) |
* UK 435i model
Engine
The 2014 4-series convertible comes with two gasoline engines: the 435i which comes a 3.0 liter straight-six, producing 306 horsepower, and the 428i which is fitted with a 2.0 liter four-cylinder providing 245 horsepower. A diesel engine is available, the 420d comes with a 2.0 liter, inline 4 giving out a healthy 184 horsepower.
The two engines power the rear wheels through either the standard six speed manual transmission with the optional 8-speed automatic transmission that’s controlled by shift paddles behind the steering wheel, available.
The “auto start/stop” function is available in all models.
Exterior
The car has a sharper appearance than the outgoing 3 Series convertible. It is visibly bigger in width, wheelbase and track than its predecessor. Despite its size, it is lighter than the outgoing series, BMW has shaved off more than 45 pounds.
The car features 4 round headlights, double kidney grille as well as big air intakes in the facade. It features air breathers, which are placed at the back of the front wheel arches in order to minimize drag.
Interior
The interior blends sporting features with exclusivity to create a classy persona. The interior is almost the same as other convertibles from BMW. The new front seats comprise of integrated retractable seatbelts, a feature that’s not available on any other car in this class.
There are two individual seats in the rear, with storage tray and cup holders for small objects between them. The seats are electronically adjustable. What’s more, the standard seats can be equipped with the neck warmers for driver and front passenger. These features are available for the very first time.
