(September 12, 2014) WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. — Few new cars have been more anticipated than the BMW 2 Series Coupe when it arrived in early 2014. Hot on the heels of the widely acclaimed BMW 228i and M235i Coupe, BMW announces the new BMW 2 Series Convertible. Available in the U.S. as the 228i and M235i, the 2 Series Convertible blends the style and dynamic driving character for which the 2 Series Coupe is already renowned with the open-air pleasure of a folding soft-top.

The BMW 2 Series Convertible will make its world debut at the Paris Motor Show. The 2015 M235i and 228i as well as the 228i xDrive, featuring BMW’s intelligent all-wheel drive system, will arrive in US showrooms in early 2015. The 2015 BMW 2 Series Convertible will be offered at $38,850 for the 228i, $40,650 for the 228i xDrive, $48,650 for the M235i, including $950 destination and handling.



The BMW 2 Series Convertible follows in the tire tracks of the pioneer in its class — the BMW 1 Series Convertible. The 1 Series Convertible entered the fray as the first open-top premium model in the sub-compact segment, went on to defend its position as clear market leader against subsequent pretenders to its throne, and achieved sales figures in excess of 130,000 units worldwide.

The development team for the new BMW 2 Series Convertible has focused squarely on building on the strengths which proved pivotal to this success. With even more grace, athleticism and sharpness about its design, clear advances in terms of performance as well as efficiency, and improvements in the driving comfort, functionality and innovative equipment features it offers, the BMW 2 Series Convertible takes the qualities displayed by its predecessor to a new level.

The number 2 has a special importance in the model history of BMW and, since the arrival of the BMW 02 range more than 45 years ago, has represented exceptionally sporting driving pleasure in a subcompact car. Introduced in 1966, the 02 series went on to become a byword around the world for sporty, agile handling — and from 1967 these gifts could also be enjoyed with the roof down. Specialist coachbuilder Baur wasted little time in developing a pair of soft-top variants based on the BMW 02 range which were produced until 1975.



The exterior design of the BMW 2 Series Convertible displays the typical characteristics of an open-top four-seater from the Bavarian brand. The BMW 2 Series Convertible combines a low-slung silhouette and dynamically stretched lines with compact proportions and powerfully contoured surfaces.

As with the 2 Series Coupe, its distinctive looks underline its standalone status in the brand’s model line-up and spotlight the dynamic potential, exhilarating open-top driving experience and premium characteristics which customers can expect. All in all, the eye-catching features which distinguish the BMW 2 Series Convertible from its rivals need no second introduction.

Opening the standard electrically-operated soft-top roof highlights the harmonious transition between the exterior and interior. The shoulderline and soft-top compartment create a level surface that wraps around the passenger compartment and evokes the distinctive “boat deck” character of BMW Convertibles.

The rollover bars, which remain out of sight unless deployed as required, also contribute to an overall impression dominated by large level surfaces. The design of the interior is headlined by modern functionality, high-quality materials and the driver focus for which BMW is renowned. And exclusive accents in the center console help to give the BMW 2 Series Convertible a refined premium feel in keeping with the car’s character.

Aided by BMW TwinPower Turbo technology with twin-scroll turbocharger, High Precision Direct Petrol Injection, VALVETRONIC fully variable valve lift regulation and Double-VANOS variable camshaft timing, the four-cylinder engine of the BMW 228i Convertible generates maximum power of 240hp between 5,000 and 6,500 rpm from a displacement of 2.0 liter. Its peak torque of 255 lb-ft can be harnessed all the way from 1,450 to 4,800 rpm for sporty power and performance.

Mated to an 8-speed sport automatic transmission, the 228i Convertible will accelerate from 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The quick-shifting 8-speed sport transmission includes steering wheel shift-paddles which allow the driver to intervene manually when desired, while a Launch Control function provides the best possible traction and dynamics when accelerating from standstill.

This increase in performance also comes with greater efficiency. While EPA numbers are not yet available for the 228i Convertible, for sake of comparison, the 228i Coupe is more than 30 percent more efficient than its 128i Coupe predecessor.

The M Performance TwinPower Turbo inline-six in the M235i Convertible offers an infectious blend of responsive power, high revving ability and powerful torque that remains constant over a wide engine speed range. Highlights also include its highly efficient design, which gives the BMW M235i Convertible fuel economy figures that are all the more remarkable in the light of its performance.

The M Performance TwinPower Turbo technology comprises a twin-scroll turbocharging system, High Precision Direct Injection featuring centrally positioned multi-hole injectors, VALVETRONIC variable valve lift regulation and Double-VANOS 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 between 5,800 and 6,000 rpm, from a displacement of 3.0 liters. The maximum torque of 330 lb-ft is available between 1,400 and 4,500 rpm.

With the standard eight-speed Steptronic sport transmission with Launch Control function, the BMW M235i Convertible accelerates from 0-60 mph in 4.8 seconds. It is also available with a six-speed manual gearbox with dry sump lubrication. Its short-throw action provides extra-sporty shifting.  60 mph is reached from a standstill in five seconds flat. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155 mph).

In line with contemporary concerns, the BMW M Performance models incorporate an extensive range of BMW EfficientDynamics technologies. US EPA numbers are not yet available for the M235i Convertible, however the M235i Coupe boosts a near 20 percent improvement over its 135i Coupe predecessor.