The 2 Series was the most anticipated coupe when it arrived in early 2014. Now that we have been accustomed to the idea of the 2 Series Coupe, BMW hits us with the 2 Series Convertible to be named the 228i with available xDrive and M235i. The 228i with xDrive featuring BMW’s intelligent all-wheel drive system and the M235i, which is BMW’s first open-air BMW that proudly represents the M badge. They will be priced at $38,850 for the base 228i and $40,650 for the 228i xDrive. While the M235i will be priced at $48,650 including $950 destination and handling fee. The 2 Series will make its world debut at the acclaimed Paris Motor Show next month.
The 2 Series follows its little brother the 1 Series, which was the industry’s first two-door convertible luxury sports car. The 1 Series held it’s own and proved its worth among pretenders in the market. Yet with the new 2 Series, BMW has focused on even more performance, improved driving comfort, functionality, and innovative state of the art equipment to enhance and pay homage to its predecessor.
So why call it the 2 Series? Well its because in 1966 the BMW 02 was introduced and quickly became known as an exceptional and sporty driving experience. The 02 was known for its agility and handling all while letting the top down. As a result of the success the BMW 2 Series is born.
Styling
The exterior design of the 2 Series Convertible displays the typical characteristics of BMW’s open-air four-seater arrangement from years past. Yet, something sets the 2 Series apart. From the low-slung silhouette and dynamically stretched lines with compact proportions and powerfully contoured surfaces, this 2 Series Beemer looks the part. The BMW’s front end exudes power and presence as you immediately notice the slightly forward-slanting BMW grill. Comprised with the legendary Xenon circular headlights coined the phrase “Angel Eyes.” BMW enthusiasts and customers alike can expect the dynamic and exhilarating convertible driving experience alongside the premium finish.
The near perfection the driver experiences when the soft-top roof is hoisted down is impressive. Likewise when the soft-top roof is up the driver is encompassed in a level surface that wraps around the cockpit, which is indicative of a boat deck. Did I mention the soft top opens and closes in 20 seconds even while on the move (under 30 mph)? Oh yeah and it comes in three-color variants. Trunk space has been expanded in width by 5.9 to 17.6 inches and in height by 1.1 to 9.7 inches respectively. In addition, the opening to the truck has been increased by 1.4 inches, which means you can now fit big and awkward items in the trunk.
Interior
The days of using old dark hardwoods are all but gone. The new BMW has shifted focus and is using more modern materials and techniques such as overlapping and layering for depth and functionality. The 2 Series is no different. You will find the interior is familiar to other cars in the lineup, which radiates a cockpit full of cutting edge technology. A driver-focused cockpit is used with a twist of postmodernism; premium ambient lighting arranged on the displays and controls. In addition the audio controls and climate controls are set against high-gloss black surfaces accompanied by air vents with chrome surrounds.
Customization
Sport Line customers or those who look beyond the conventional power from the standard 2 Series will enjoy a bit of customization to maximize the performance potential. Sport Line customers can add 18-inch light alloy wheels and an exclusive designed plus sport suspension, door sill strips, seat upholstery and even car key designs. While the M customers can enjoy their own specially made M Sport Aerodynamic body kit among others. Customers can also choose to spruce up their 228i Convertible with a Track Handling Package. This includes the adaptive M suspension, Michelin Super Sport tires on 18-inch light alloy wheels, variable sport steering and M Sport brakes.
Performance
The 228i Convertible generates 240 hp from its 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine at 6,500 rpm. Coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission the 2 Series BMW Convertible will accelerate from 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds. Of course for nearly $40k you do get paddle shifters for immediate shifting takeover. This performance in power does not sacrifice fuel economy as the EPA is not out yet but it is 30% more efficient than the 128i Coupe.
The M235i offers a powerful twin turbo inline six coupled with either an 8-speed sport automatic with paddle shifters or a 6-speed manual transmission. The typical M performance badge screams upgraded breaks, suspension, and a unique aerodynamic body kit to accompany the engine performance. This M Performance twin turbo inline six offered in the M235i Convertible offers a unique blend of ready power; high revving ability and unbelievable torque that will beg any driver to push harder and harder. The BMW M235i Convertible provides the perfect balance of engine power, chassis engineering and aerodynamics to deliver high levels of agility, precision and emotional intensity that are unsurpassed in the premium compact segment.
The M Performance TwinPower Turbo technology comprises a twin-scroll turbocharging system; High Precision Direct Injection featuring centrally positioned multi-hole injectors, variable valve lift regulation and variable camshaft timing. A cooling system, engine management and engine sound tuning, all of which have been exclusively customized to the requirements of the BMW 2 Series M Performance models, complete the picture. Maximum power of 320 hp is generated at 6,000 rpm, from a displacement of 3.0 liters with 330 lb.-ft. The M235i can reach 0-60 mph in 4.8 seconds with the 8-speed automatic and Launch Control function. The 6-speed manual transmission boasts 0-60 mph in five seconds flat with a top speed limited in 155 mph.
The intelligent BMW ConnectedDrive helps connect the driver, vehicle and the outside world. This is a unique system and one that is unmatched in the class. This system is even able to complete over the air updating of the navigation system via the embedded SIM card. With this SIM card and a first for BMW, the 2 Series Convertible offers LTE wireless speeds further connecting you to services such as Facebook, Twitter, Weather, and a host of other apps.
Photo Credit: BMW
