BMW Faqs

BMW’s new 3 Series folding-hardtop convertible shows off a big improvement over earlier versions, says AutoWeek in a First Drive review, as “engineers went for an ‘open’ feel but not at the expense of wind management.” Writing in the Feb. 19 issue, Mark Vaughn says, “Driving the newest 3 Series convertible was a lesson in proper aerodynamics.”

Suspensions for U.S. and European models are identical, even though some options can differ between the two cars. U.S. cars get 17-inch and 18-inch wheels; Canadian and European cars can be fitted with 19-inch wheels. Outside the U.S., you can order paddle shifters with any automatic transmission car; here it’s part of the sport package. Vaughn said that after a brief, one-day drive in Arizona, the 335i coupe seemed to drive better and had a stiffer body.

But back to road manners with the top down. “We remember that first with its bolt-upright front end and straight-up windshield hacking through the German air like a badly deflating Zeppelin with its fabric top stowed snugly beneath a hard tonneau cover as the wind tried to rip the shoulder belt and our left shoulder completely out of their sockets. Wind management is much better in this version.”

This 3 Series convertible adds 375 pounds and about $7,000 in price when compared to the 335i coupe. The hardtop is made up of three panels that fold into the trunk in 22 seconds and provides more noise insulation, back seat room, and visibility. The new 335i convertible weighs about 3,950 pounds vs. 3,582 pounds for a 335i coupe with automatic transmission. The convertible goes on sale in late March. There’s also a 328i convertible with a 3.0-liter inline six, but without the 335i’s twin turbochargers.