07:17AM - 10.09.'14
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News Source: autoblog.com
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BMW is dropping the top of the 2 Series in early 2015 in the US with convertible versions of the 228i and M235i. They'll make their world debut at the Paris Motor Show later this year and will show their faces on this side of the pond at the 2014 Los Angeles International Auto Show. Aesthetically, you're getting exactly what you'd expect from the 2 Series Convertible both inside and out. They look almost identical to their coupe counterparts, except that they now boast an electrically folding soft top. When tucked away, it hides underneath a panel behind the rear seats for a very clean look, but it can pop out or close in 20 seconds at speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. Additionally, the soundproofed and insulated roof is available in Black, Anthracite and Brown. Powerplants are also shared with the coupes. That gives the 228i 'vert a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder pumping out 240 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque with a standard eight-speed automatic gearbox. BMW claims that it can run to 60 in 5.7 seconds. In addition, there's a model with xDrive all-wheel drive that's even quicker at 5.6 seconds to 60. However, the company isn't revealing fuel economy specs for either version yet. The 228i can also be optioned up with Sport Line or M Sport packages that add different finishes, wheels and trims. For the buyer that really wants even something sportier without going for the M model, the Track Handling Package includes an Adaptive M Suspension, Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires, 18-inch wheels, Variable Sport Steering, and M Sport Brakes. The M235i Convertible also shares the coupe's turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six to make 320 hp and 330 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with an eight-speed auto, but a six-speed manual is also available for those who want complete control. The droptop can sprint to 60 in 4.8 seconds with the automatic or 5 seconds with the manual but both have an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. The 2 Series Convertible also marks the debut for BMW's free, over-the-air updates for the navigation system. Whenever new maps are available, the system sends them to the vehicle's SIM card. It's all done automatically, and the nav continues to work while the upgrade is in progress. Pricing for the 228i Convertible starts at $38,850 or $40,650 with xDrive all-wheel drive. For those that need the extra power, the M235i 'vert costs $48,650. All of these prices include the additional $950 destination fee. In general that is generally about $5,000 over the price of a comparable coupe. Scroll down for the full announcement of BMW's latest compact convertibles. |
