Spy photographers have caught the BMW
4-Series Convertible on numerous occasions, and now the model has been unmasked
thanks to China’s National Intellectual Property Administration. As you can see
in these patent images noticed by i4talk, the model follows in the footsteps of
the 4-Series Coupe as it features a massive grille, vertical air intakes and
sweptback headlights.
Bigger changes occur aft of the A-pillar
as the model eschews the retractable hardtop used on the current 4-Series. It
has been replaced by a more conventional soft top which should lighter and more
attractive when the roof is up. That isn’t the only change as the 4-Series
Convertible adopts an angular beltline, smaller quarter glass and a flatter
trunk with a third brake light integrated into the spoiler. Otherwise, the rear
end carries over as we can see a familiar fascia and a dual exhaust system.
The cabin should echo the coupe and
feature an 8.8-inch infotainment system as well as analog gauges that are
separated by a 5.1-inch information display. Customers should also be able to
opt for a Live Cockpit Professional package which adds a 12.3-inch digital
instrument cluster and a larger 10.25-inch infotainment system.
Engine options will mirror those on the
coupe and that means we can expect a 430i variant with a turbocharged 2.0-liter
four-cylinder pumping out 255 hp and 398 Nm of
torque. This should enable the convertible to accelerate from 0-96
km/h in around 5.5 seconds. We can also expect an M440i with a turbocharged
3.0-liter inline-six that produces 382 hp and 500
Nm of torque. This should lower the 0-96 km/h time to approximately
4.3 seconds.
BMW hasn’t said when the 4-Series
Convertible will be unveiled, but the company has already confirmed the M4
Convertible will debut sometime next year.
