BMW debuts 2 Series Convertible at Paris Motor Show
BMW has given the 2 Series Convertible its first public outing at the 2014 Paris Motor Show, replacing the 1 Series Convertible and offering a range of petrol and diesel engines.
BMW has presented the 2 Series Convertible for the first time in public at the 2014 Paris Motor Show, marking the official debut of the model that replaces the 1 Series Convertible in the brand’s line-up. The unveiling confirms the car’s design and technical details, which closely follow those of the 2 Series Coupe.
The 2 Series Convertible retains a fabric soft top, which BMW says can be opened or closed in 20 seconds and operated at speeds up to 30 mph (50 km/h). The roof is available in three colours: black, anthracite with silver effect, and brown with silver effect. BMW highlights improved insulation, claiming a reduction in interior noise by 5 dB at the front and 7 dB at the rear compared to the previous model.
Engine options for the 2 Series Convertible cover both petrol and diesel, depending on market. The entry-level 220i uses a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 184 PS and 270 Nm. The 228i, also a 2.0-litre petrol, is tuned for 245 PS and 350 Nm, with xDrive all-wheel drive available as an option. Diesel buyers get the 220d, a 2.0-litre four-cylinder offering 190 PS and 400 Nm.
M235i Convertible headlines the range
The M235i Convertible sits at the top of the range, powered by a 3.0-litre inline-six TwinPower Turbo engine. BMW quotes 326 PS and 450 Nm, with 0–62 mph in 5.2 seconds for the manual and 5.0 seconds with the eight-speed automatic. This performance puts it among the fastest open-topped compact cars in its segment at launch.
| 220i petrol | 2.0-litre, 184 PS, 270 Nm |
|---|---|
| 228i petrol | 2.0-litre, 245 PS, 350 Nm |
| 220d diesel | 2.0-litre, 190 PS, 400 Nm |
| M235i petrol | 3.0-litre, 326 PS, 450 Nm |
The 2 Series Convertible’s arrival fills the gap left by the discontinued 1 Series Convertible, maintaining BMW’s presence in the compact premium cabriolet market. The car’s design closely mirrors the 2 Series Coupe, with the main difference being the fabric roof and associated structural changes for open-top driving.
Market position and rivals
With its mix of engine options and focus on driving dynamics, the 2 Series Convertible competes against other premium compact cabriolets. BMW’s decision to retain a fabric roof rather than a folding hardtop keeps weight down and preserves boot space, a choice also seen in rivals such as the Audi A3 Cabriolet. For more on premium convertibles unveiled at major shows, seeCitroën DS3 Convertible Set for Paris Motor Show Debut.
