We’ve spotted a second lightly camo’d
tester of BMW’s upcoming 4-Series Cabriolet (or Convertible), this time, a
lesser version, possibly a 420i or 430i, as evidenced by the twin exhaust
finishers that are the same on those two models. A new prototype of the BMW
4-Series Convertible, and in particular, what appears to be the M440i xDriver
variant, has been snapped by spy photographers with almost no camouflage,
except some on the rear fascia.
While we have seen 4-Series Convertible
prototypes in the past, this is the first time we have seen one exposed to this
extent. Evidently, the German automaker is no longer worried about hiding the
front-end design as it is just like that of the already-revealed 4-Series
Coupe. With this is mind, the front fascia immediately stands out due to the
garish kidney grilles which on this variant are finished in black but are
expected to have a chrome finish on certain variants. Just below these grilles
is a secondary grille in the shape of a smiley face. The car also has two
further air intakes below the headlights.
Speaking of the headlights, they are
identical to those of the 4-Series Coupe. Look further back and you will notice
this prototype is sitting on a set of gloss black wheels that are hiding dark
blue brake calipers. As for the rear of the 4-Series Convertible, it has the
same stylish new taillights as the Coupe with a flowing LED signature that will
make the car immediately identifiable on the road. The design of the rear
diffuser and dual tailpipes appear the same as the Coupe.
In all likelihood, the 4-Series
Convertible will be sold with the same powertrains as the 4-Series Coupe. In
Europe, that could mean variants like a 420i with a 184 hp 2.0-liter
turbo-four, a 430i with a 258 hp 2.0-liter turbo-four, a 420d with a 190 hp
2.0-liter turbo-four diesel, and a 430d with a 3.0-liter turbo-six diesel good
for 286 hp.
The model seen above, as evidenced by the
body kit, trimmings including the exhaust pipe finishers, and wheels, is the
M440i powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six delivering 382 horsepower
in North America and 374 hp in Europe, and 369 lb-ft of torque. As with the
coupe, it will likely be offered in both rear-wheel and xDrive all-wheel drive
variants. A new M4 Convertible should also be in the pipeline, packing 480 PS as standard and 510 PS in Competition guise.
