Slightly Larger Than the 1 Series

BMW is globally premiering the "2 Series Convertible" (sold in Japan as the 2 Series Cabriolet) in the premium compact segment, replacing the previous "1 Series Convertible1 Series Convertible" at the Paris Motor Show. The previous 1 Series Convertible, as its name suggests, was an open-top car based on the "1 Series," BMW's smallest model, utilizing its FR platform. It was a popular model, selling 130,000 units worldwide. Due to BMW's lineup strategy, this new model is developed based on the coupe, which is now designated as the "2 Series" and is also named the "2 Series."

Consequently, its exterior design, body size, performance, interior design, and comfort features will align with the current "2 Series Coupe."



The body dimensions have been increased compared to the previous 1 Series. For the entry-level "220i Convertible," the dimensions are 4,432mm (length) x 1,774mm (width) x 1,413mm (height), with a wheelbase of 2,690mm (all European specifications). This represents an increase of 72mm in length, 26mm in width, and 30mm in wheelbase compared to the 1 Series Convertible. For reference, the Japanese specifications for the 2 Series Coupe are 4,440mm (length) x 1,775mm (width) x 1,420mm (height) (with the same wheelbase), and the convertible model is expected to have very similar dimensions.



The exterior, clearly identifiable as a 2 Series, features the familiar BMW two-door sports model aesthetic, including slim kidney grilles, sharp headlights, and the sculpted, muscular side design that rises dynamically from the doors to the rear fenders, inherited from the 2 Series Coupe.

BMW's Aesthetic Philosophy Felt Even When Open

Naturally, the most significant exterior difference is the adoption of a soft top for the open-top configuration. Unlike the "4 Series Convertible" which features a retractable hardtop, this model uses a conventional soft top that can be opened and closed electrically. The roof can be opened or closed while driving at speeds up to 50 km/h, with the process taking a mere 20 seconds.



Even with the top down, one cannot help but feel BMW's aesthetic philosophy in the styling. The soft top retracts neatly into the rear deck, creating a perfectly flat surface. Combined with the character lines along the sides, the four-seater 2 Series Convertible presents a remarkably flowing and elegant profile.



The soft top itself has been improved with added insulation materials, enhancing its thermal insulation and quietness compared to previous models. It is reportedly 5 dB quieter at the front and 7 dB quieter in the rear seats compared to the 1 Series Convertible. The standard soft top color is black, but optional silver and brown finishes are available, featuring a glossy treatment that reflects sunlight for a metallic sheen.



Due to the convertible conversion, the body is approximately 85 kg heavier than the coupe, with the 220i Convertible weighing 1,510 kg compared to the 220i Coupe's 1,425 kg. However, the body's torsional rigidity has increased by about 20% compared to the previous generation, and with a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.31, which is favorable for a convertible, it offers a driving experience akin to a coupe.

M235i Convertible Also in the Lineup

The vehicle has received a 5-star rating in Euro NCAP crash tests. In the event of a collision, the body structure with appropriate deformation zones, along with safety features including front and side airbags, head airbags, and an integrated rollover protection system, ensures the occupants are adequately protected. In case of a rollover, the rollover bars located behind the rear seats deploy to secure the survival space.



The lineup starts with four models. The entry-level "220i Convertible" is equipped with a 1,997cc inline 4-cylinder gasoline engine featuring BMW TwinPower Turbo technology (twin-scroll turbocharger, high-precision direct injection, Valvetronic variable valve timing, Double VANOS), delivering a maximum output of 135 kW (184 hp) and peak torque of 270 Nm (27.5 kgm).




The other entry-level model, the "220d Convertible," is powered by an inline 4-cylinder diesel engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology (2,000 bar solenoid valve injectors, variable intake manifold geometry, common rail direct injection, turbocharger). This diesel engine has a displacement of 1,995cc, producing a maximum output of 140 kW (190 hp) and peak torque of 350 Nm (35.7 kgm). It achieves 0-100 km/h in 7.5 seconds (7.4 seconds for the AT) and a top speed of 225 km/h, demonstrating brisk performance. CO2 emissions are kept at 116 g/km (116 g/km for the AT).



For those seeking higher performance, the lineup also includes the "228i Convertible" with a 1,995cc inline 4-cylinder turbo engine producing 180 kW (245 hp) and 350 Nm (35.7 kgm), and the "M235i Convertible" powered by a 2,979cc inline 6-cylinder turbo engine delivering 240 kW (326 hp) and 450 Nm (45.9 kgm). The M235i Convertible boasts a 0-100 km/h acceleration of 5.2 seconds (5.0 seconds for the AT) and a top speed of 250 km/h, truly living up to its designation as an open-top sports car. All these models are available with either a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic transmission.

First Model to Feature New Generation Navigation

All models share the same suspension setup: a double-joint spring strut front axle and a five-link rear axle. Electric power steering, DTC, and DSC with electronic differential lock are standard equipment. Additionally, the M235i Convertible can be optionally equipped with variable sport steering, M Sport brakes, and adaptive M suspension with electronic damping control.



Furthermore, the 2 Series Convertible is the first BMW model to offer the latest generation "Professional" navigation system as an option, which supports wireless navigation map updates via a SIM card.



While its introduction to Japan is unconfirmed, considering BMW's recent aggressive expansion of its lineup, it is likely that this unique FR open-top four-seater model in the premium compact segment will be available in Japan in early 2015. We also look forward to the potential introduction of the open-top diesel combination, a first for the Japanese market.


BMW M235i Convertible

Body Dimensions | Length 4,454 x Width 1,774 x Height 1,403 mm

Wheelbase | 2,690 mm

Track Front/Rear | 1,516 / 1,534 mm

Minimum Ground Clearance | 130 mm

Weight | (6MT) 1,600 kg (8AT) 1,620 kg

Engine | 2,979cc Inline 6-cylinder DOHC M TwinPower Turbo (Twin-scroll turbo)

Bore x Stroke | 84.0 x 89.6 mm

Compression Ratio | 10.2

Max. Output | 240 kW (326 ps) / 5,800-6,000 rpm

Max. Torque | 450 Nm / 1,300-4,500 rpm

Drivetrain | FR

Transmission | 6-speed MT / 8-speed AT

Suspension Front/Rear | Double-joint spring strut / 5-link

Tires Front/Rear | 225/40R18 / 245/35R18

Brakes Front/Rear | Disc / Disc

0-100km/h Acceleration | (6MT) 5.2 sec (8AT) 5.0 sec

Top Speed | (6MT) 250 km/h (8AT) 250 km/h

Minimum Turning Radius | 5.45 meters

Trunk Capacity | 280-335 liters

Fuel Economy (EU) | (6MT) 8.5 ℓ/100km (approx. 11.8km/ℓ) (8AT) 7.9 ℓ/100km (approx. 12.7km/ℓ)

CO2 Emissions | (6MT) 199 g/km (8AT) 184 g/km




BMW 228i Convertible

Body Dimensions | Length 4,432 x Width 1,774 x Height 1,413 mm

Wheelbase | 2,690 mm

Track Front/Rear | 1,521 / 1,556 mm

Minimum Ground Clearance | 140 mm

Weight | (6MT) 1,535 kg (8AT) 1,555 kg

Engine | 1,997cc Inline 4-cylinder DOHC TwinPower Turbo (Twin-scroll turbo)

Bore x Stroke | 84.0 x 90.1 mm

Compression Ratio | 10.0

Max. Output | 180 kW (245 ps) / 5,000-6,500 rpm

Max. Torque | 350 Nm / 1,250-4,800 rpm

Drivetrain | FR

Transmission | 6-speed MT / 8-speed AT

Suspension Front/Rear | Double-joint spring strut / 5-link

Tires Front/Rear | 205/50R17

Brakes Front/Rear | Disc / Disc

0-100km/h Acceleration | (6MT) 6.1 sec (8AT) 6.0 sec

Top Speed | (6MT) 250 km/h (8AT) 250 km/h

Minimum Turning Radius | 5.45 meters

Trunk Capacity | 280-335 liters

Fuel Economy (EU) | (6MT) 6.8 ℓ/100km (approx. 14.7km/ℓ) (8AT) 6.6 ℓ/100km (approx. 15.2km/ℓ)

CO2 Emissions | (6MT) 159 g/km (8AT) 154 g/km



BMW 220i Convertible

Body Dimensions | Length 4,432 x Width 1,774 x Height 1,413 mm

Wheelbase | 2,690 mm

Track Front/Rear | 1,521 / 1,556 mm

Minimum Ground Clearance | 140 mm

Weight | (6MT) 1,510 kg (8AT) 1,530 kg

Engine | 1,997cc Inline 4-cylinder DOHC TwinPower Turbo (Twin-scroll turbo)

Bore x Stroke | 84.0 x 90.1 mm

Compression Ratio | 11.0

Max. Output | 135 kW (184 ps) / 5,000-6,250 rpm

Max. Torque | 270 Nm / 1,250-4,500 rpm

Drivetrain | FR

Transmission | 6-speed MT / 8-speed AT

Suspension Front/Rear | Double-joint spring strut / 5-link

Tires Front/Rear | 205/55R16

Brakes Front/Rear | Disc / Disc

0-100km/h Acceleration | (6MT) 7.5 sec (8AT) 7.6 sec

Top Speed | (6MT) 231 km/h (8AT) 226 km/h

Minimum Turning Radius | 5.45 meters

Trunk Capacity | 280-335 liters

Fuel Economy (EU) | (6MT) 6.5 ℓ/100km (approx. 15.4km/ℓ) (8AT) 6.2 ℓ/100km (approx. 16.1km/ℓ)

CO2 Emissions | (6MT) 152 g/km (8AT) 144 g/km



BMW 220d Convertible

Body Dimensions | Length 4,432 x Width 1,774 x Height 1,413 mm

Wheelbase | 2,690 mm

Track Front/Rear | 1,521 / 1,556 mm

Minimum Ground Clearance | 140 mm

Weight | (6MT) 1,535 kg (8AT) 1,555 kg

Engine | 1,995cc Inline 4-cylinder DOHC TwinPower Turbo Diesel

Bore x Stroke | 84.0 x 90.0 mm

Compression Ratio | 16.5

Max. Output | 140 kW (190 ps) / 4,000 rpm

Max. Torque | 400 Nm / 1,750-2,500 rpm

Drivetrain | FR

Transmission | 6-speed MT / 8-speed AT

Suspension Front/Rear | Double-joint spring strut / 5-link

Tires Front/Rear | 205/55R16

Brakes Front/Rear | Disc / Disc

0-100km/h Acceleration | (6MT) 7.5 sec (8AT) 7.4 sec

Top Speed | (6MT) 225 km/h (8AT) 225 km/h

Minimum Turning Radius | 5.45 meters

Trunk Capacity | 280-335 liters

Fuel Economy (EU) | (6MT) 4.7 ℓ/100km (approx. 21.3km/ℓ) (8AT) 4.4 ℓ/100km (approx. 22.7km/ℓ)

CO2 Emissions | (6MT) 124 g/km (8AT) 116 g/km