2021 BMW 4 Series Convertible revealed with a lighter soft top

KUALA LUMPUR: While we have seen the all-new BMW 4 Series soft-top in the leaked patent images surfaced earlier this month, here comes the full-fledged official revealing of the Convertible. Sharing its looks with the new 4-Series coupe, the refreshed model gets a new fabric soft top in place of the folding metal hardtop available on the predecessor.

The new roof is 40% lighter than the earlier top and is available in two colours - black or Anthracite Silver. It can be electrically lowered or raised in 18 seconds at speeds of up to 50 kmph, i.e., 2 seconds and 32 kmph faster than the previous one. The smaller, lighter roof also results in more boot space, making 300 litres with the roof down and 385 litres with roof up, which is 80 and 15 litres more than the outgoing model. The cargo space can be increased further by folding the rear seats.

Although the 4-Series Convertible design is identical to the coupe, BMW gives it some tweaks for improved torsional rigidity. These include an aluminum shear panel at the front, stiffer side skirts, reinforced transmission tunnel, and a strong rear floor plate. Moreover, extra attention has been given to the intake system and engine cover for noise reduction.

In addition to looks, the 4-Series Convertible also borrowed the powertrain choices from the coupe. The 430i trim uses a 2.0-litre inline-four engine making 255 horsepower and 400 Nm of peak torque, while the M440i is powered by a 3.0-litre inline-six with 48-volt mild-hybrid technology, combinedly generating 382 hp and 500 Nm. The only gearbox on offer is an eight-speed automatic. 

The base 430i drop-top can run from naught to 100 kmph in 5.9 seconds, whereas the M440i does the same in only 5 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 209 kmph or 249 kmph, depending on the wheel and tyre combination.

Inside, it houses a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster, and a large infotainment screen (available in 8.8 inches and 10.25 inches) integrated with BMW's Intelligent Personal Assistant system, and Apple CarPlay, and Android Audio. A leather-lined sport steering wheel and sport seats also come as standard. 

Coming to the safety and driver-assistance features, the new 4-Series Convertible gets forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, blind-spot warning, lane departure warning with steering correction, and rear cross-traffic alert. A parking assistance package is also available with a surround-view camera.

The all-new BMW 4 Series Convertible is slated to arrive next year in March at a starting price of $53,100 (RM 220,711). No information is available on its Malaysian launch at the moment.

Also read: BMW i4 M reveal confirmed for 2021