BMW 2-Series Convertible
Kitted out with powerful engines, sophisticated chassis technology, finely balanced weight distribution and – uniquely in this class – rear-wheel drive, BMW is bringing an unmistakable brand of driving pleasure to the premium compact segment. Elegantly sporty design and an intense open-top motoring experience are the stand-out features of BMW Convertibles. And the BMW 2 Series Convertible brings together dynamic handling and refreshing open-air driving pleasure at a new level. The compact four-seater’s powerful engine technology, athletic proportions, sweeping lines and hallmark “boat deck” character where the interior and exterior merge all raise the bar in its segment in terms of sporting and aesthetic appeal.
The BMW 2 Series Convertible follows in the tyre tracks of the pioneer and undisputed leader in its class: the BMW 1 Series Convertible entered the fray as the first open-top premium model in the 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 acceleration, agility and 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 yet another level.
The scope of the progress made as part of the handover between generations is immediately visible in the design of the new car and instantly noticeable in its performance capability. Moreover, the BMW 2 Series Convertible – like the recently launched BMW 2 Series Coupe – occupies very different ground from the BMW 1 Series, far more so than its predecessor. This demarcation is evident in both its design and its extremely powerful range of engines. As with the Coupe, the distinctive character this engenders is encapsulated in its model designation. 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 identified the presence of exceptionally sporting driving pleasure in a compact 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 remained in production until 1975.
Elegance and openness in the established style of BMW Convertibles. The exterior design of the BMW 2 Series Convertible displays the typical characteristics of an open-top four-seater from the Bavarian brand. A sweeping silhouette accentuates the new model’s elegance, while athletically formed surfaces underline its sporting qualities on the road. Once opened, the electrically operated fabric soft-top stows away fully into the rear of the car, allowing the shoulderline and soft-top compartment to merge harmoniously. As the two meet, they wrap a level surface around the passenger compartment that helps to give the car its distinctive “boat deck” character. The typically BMW set-back seating position allows a particularly refreshing open-top motoring experience – intense contact with the sun and wind is another keynote feature of Convertibles from BMW.
With a body stretching for 4,432 millimetres, the BMW 2 Series Convertible extends 108 millimetres further down the road than the BMW 1 Series and is also 72 millimetres longer than its direct predecessor, the BMW 1 Series Convertible. Its body width, wheelbase and track width likewise show notable increases over the previous model, making for distinctive, elegantly stretched, athletic proportions.
BMW 2 Series Convertible: blazing a trail for driving pleasure all over again. A host of innovations on board the BMW 2 Series Convertible allow it to break new ground in various areas. For example, the BMW M235i Convertible – powered by a 240 kW/326 hp six-cylinder in-line engine – is the first open-top member of the BMW M Performance Automobile line-up. And the BMW 220d Convertible gives a diesel unit from the BMW Group’s new engine family its premiere in a compact BMW model. The 140 kW/190 hp teams up, as standard, with a likewise new six-speed manual gearbox or, as an option, with a further developed eight-speed Steptronic transmission.
The BMW 2 Series Convertible also leads the way with a significant new innovation in the area of intelligent connectivity. For the first time, map data for the optional Navigation system Professional can be updated via a mobile phone connection – i.e. (fittingly, given our open-top subject matter) “over the air”.
The design: Athletic, elegant and open to thrills.
The familiar exterior design of Convertibles from BMW also announces the presence of the brand’s customary open-top driving pleasure in the compact segment. The BMW 2 Series Convertible combines a low-slung silhouette and dynamically stretched lines with compact proportions and powerfully contoured surfaces, providing a showcase for the open-top four-seater’s sophisticated elegance and agile sporting ability. As with the BMW 2 Series Coupe, its distinctive looks underline its standalone status in the brand’s model line-up and spotlight the dynamic potential, intensive open-top driving experience and outstanding premium characteristics that customers can expect. All in all, the eye-catching features which mark the BMW 2 Series Convertible out from its rivals need no second introduction. Opening the 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 centre console help to give the BMW 2 Series Convertible a refined premium feel in keeping with the car’s character.
Hallmark BMW design language, classical features of a BMW Convertible. The front end of the BMW 2 Series Convertible, which adopts the brand’s familiar design language, exudes power and presence. As with the BMW 2 Series Coupe, front-end structuring comes courtesy of lines that converge dynamically on the large, slightly forward-slanting BMW kidney grille. The contours of the twin circular headlights narrow at their inner extremes and are replicated by the outlines of the outer air intakes. Air Curtains integrated into the front apron serve to channel the onrushing air precisely behind the front side panels, reducing turbulence in the wheel arches. The headlight units are separated from the BMW kidney grille by narrow strips on either side. An LED accent strip – or, if the optional bi-xenon lights are fitted, an LED accent light – cuts across the top of the headlights.
Together, the level shoulderline of the BMW 2 Series Convertible and the car’s telltale BMW proportions – the product of short overhangs, a long bonnet, long wheelbase and set-back passenger compartment – create an ideal environment in which to enjoy an intense open-top driving experience. The positioning of the seats well back in the body gives the driver and passengers an up-close-and-personal experience of not just the onrushing wind and the sun’s rays but also the transfer of power to the rear wheels.
The stretched silhouette also underlines the almost 11 centimetres of extra body length of the new car over the BMW 1 Series models. Its shoulderline rises slightly to the rear and merges into the virtually horizontal boot lid. And it links up with the prominent swage line running alongside it, through the door handles and into the rear, to create a dynamic wedge shape which captures the forward-surging urgency of the BMW 2 Series Convertible. Additional character lines leading from the doors and side skirts to the rear side panels divert the eye to the powerfully formed surfaces around the rear wheel arches, which duly focus attention on the car’s rear-wheel-drive set-up. The BMW 2 Series Convertible’s body is at its widest around the rear wheels. Its track, significantly wider than that of both the BMW 1 Series and its predecessor Coupe, is emphasised by the horizontal lines which define the rear view, especially when the roof is open. The rear lights, which extend well into the side panels, display the familiar BMW L-shape and have LED-powered light strips. The third brake light is integrated into the boot lid and likewise illuminates using LED units.
The interior: driver-focused cockpit, cutting-edge functionality, refined premium ambience. The arrangement of displays and controls familiar from other BMW models gives the BMW 2 Series Convertible’s cockpit a familiar driver focus. The surface structure of the instrument panel, centre console and door trim follows the overlapping principle known as “layering”. The bespoke design of the BMW 2 Series Convertible’s centre console creates a refined premium feel on board. The controls for the audio system and climate control are set against high-gloss black surfaces, and the air vents have chrome surrounds. These elements are joined by an exclusively designed display for the climate control system with white readouts on a black background. An array of stowage areas and large storage compartments in the doors, meanwhile, contribute to the modern functionality of the interior.
Advantage, Sport Line, Luxury Line and M Sport variants provide effective individualisation options. Customers tempted to look beyond standard specifications will be able to order their BMW 2 Series Convertible in four special variants offering carefully considered individualisation through the use of harmoniously coordinated design and equipment features. The Advantage variant, for example, offers customers features such as a multifunction steering wheel, Cruise Control with braking function, Park Distance Control, a storage package and front foglamps. The Sport Line and Luxury Line variants add 17-inch light-alloy wheels in their own exclusive design, ambient lighting with variable use of colours, a sliding armrest, plus special door sill strips, seat upholstery, interior trim strips and car key designs. And the M Sport model also comes with the equipment features included in the Advantage variant, plus an M Sport package developed specially for the BMW 2 Series Convertible.
The surrounds for the outer air intakes, the front of the kidney grille bars, the cross rib in the central air intake and the rear apron all have a high-gloss black finish in the Sport Line variant. These details join together with a reduction in the number of kidney grille bars from 11 to eight and an exhaust tailpipe embellisher in black chrome to highlight the dynamic character of the BMW 2 Series Convertible. Sports seats for the driver and front passenger, a specially styled instrument cluster and a knee pad on the driver’s side of the centre console heighten the sense of sporting flair in the interior. The Luxury Line variant fuses high-gloss chrome design elements with the Chrome Line exterior package to create a classily elegant appearance. The exclusive interior ambience is enhanced by interior trim strips in exquisite Fineline Stream wood, including an accent strip in Oxide Silver, and a sports leather steering wheel.
The M Sport package, which is part of the M Sport variant, comprises bespoke suspension tuning (including a 10-millimetre drop in ride height and 17-inch M light-alloy wheels in double-spoke design), aerodynamically optimised body elements (including large front air intakes, eye-catching side skirts and a diffuser for the rear apron), as well as a special design for the BMW kidney grille and an exhaust tailpipe embellisher in high-gloss chrome. In addition to aluminium door sill strips bearing the M logo, features such as sports seats for the driver and front passenger, a sliding armrest, Aluminium Hexagon interior trim strips with an accent strip in Estoril Blue, an M leather steering wheel, a special dial design for the instrument cluster, ambient lighting and an M driver’s footrest also combine to bring an intense aura of sporty driving to the interior of the BMW 2 Series Convertible.
Body, safety and equipment: Solid basis, innovative details.
The launch of the BMW 2 Series Convertible sets a new benchmark for agility and driving comfort in an open-top four-seater in the premium compact segment. The qualities of the car’s handling benefit not only from a longer wheelbase and wider track, but also from the newly designed body, which is stiffer and has a low-weight construction. Its larger dimensions benefit both interior space and boot capacity. In addition, the BMW 2 Series Convertible also has the most efficient aerodynamics in its segment, as shown by a Cd of 0.31 (BMW 220d Convertible).
Further advances over its predecessor can be found in the acoustic comfort of the fabric soft-top, the car’s overall functionality and its safety equipment. The rollover bars, which extend as and when required, are a convertible-specific safety feature. In addition, the BMW 2 Series Convertible comes with innovative measures aimed at optimising pedestrian protection.
The BMW 2 Series Convertible is fitted with an extensive spread of standard equipment which surpasses that of both its predecessor and the BMW 1 Series. The exclusive status of the BMW 2 Series Convertible in the premium compact segment is underlined by the range of high-quality options designed to enhance comfort and functionality. Body structure with optimised rigidity and intelligent lightweight design. The optimised rigidity of the body structure enhances both the car’s agile handling and its passive safety. The body of the BMW 2 Series Convertible boasts 20 per cent greater torsional rigidity than its predecessor and a 10 per cent increase in bending strength. Equally central to these advances are improvements in the car’s construction and an optimum selection of materials, guided by the principle of intelligent lightweight design. Measures such as the considered use of high and ultra-high-tensile steels provide extra rigidity while at the same time reducing weight.
The extremely strong A-pillars with strengthening elements and joints made from hot-formed steel play a key role in occupant protection. In the event of the car rolling over, the A-pillars team up with the two high-strength aluminium protective bars behind the rear head restraints, which extend in fractions of a second to form a survival space for the occupants. The rollover protection system is activated automatically the moment the central safety electronics detect the danger of the car turning over. The spring-loaded rollover bars are activated by electromagnetic actuators.
The rollover protection system forms part of an all-encompassing safety concept which also takes into account all other conceivable types of collision and puts measures in place to ensure outstanding performance in all the relevant crash tests around the world. Extremely durable supporting structures, precisely defined load paths, generous deformation zones and highly efficient restraint systems come together to ensure that forces generated in an impact are diverted and absorbed extremely effectively. Meanwhile, special deformation zones in the engine compartment and an “active” bonnet system guarantee optimised pedestrian protection. In the event of a collision with a pedestrian or cyclist, the rear part of the bonnet is automatically raised to reduce the risk of injury in a collision with particularly unyielding sections of the engine.
The safety features fitted in the interior include front airbags, side airbags with combined head airbags integrated into the seat backrests, three-point inertia-reel seat belts for all seats, belt force limiters and belt tensioners in the front seats, and ISOFIX child seat attachments in the rear. The standard-fitted Tyre Defect Indicator registers a loss of pressure in individual tyres and warns the driver by activating a signal in the instrument cluster.
The fabric soft-top opens and closes in 20 seconds, even when on the move; three colour variants, optimised acoustics. The lines of the high-quality fabric roof emphasise the dynamic looks of the BMW 2 Series Convertible. The soft-top’s classic, pared-down appearance exudes a feeling of lightness and is complemented by optimised acoustics and unrestricted year-round usability. Soundproofing has been improved compared with the car’s predecessor through the introduction of additional insulation for the soft-top skin. This measure cuts interior noise by 5 dB(A) in the front seats and 7 dB(A) in the rear.
When spontaneous open-top driving pleasure is the order of the day, the electrically operated soft-top can be opened in 20 seconds at the touch of a button – and it also closes in the same small sliver of time. The opening/closing process can also be initiated while on the move at speeds of up to 50 km/h (31 mph). If the car features the Comfort Access option, the roof can also be opened and closed remotely.
As an alternative to the standard Black, the fabric soft-top can be ordered in two optional colours. For the Anthracite with silver effect variant and Brown with silver effect option, the fabric of the cover is interwoven with fine shiny fibres. This gives the material a high-quality, shimmering metallic surface impression, which produces attractive reflections under sunlight.
Increased spaciousness, load capacity and variability. The increased exterior dimensions of the BMW 2 Series Convertible over its predecessor mean occupants in the four seats can enjoy extra spaciousness and freedom of movement. In addition, the access space through to the rear is now 11 millimetres larger, which, when combined with the standard Easy Entry function for the front seats, means that using the rear seats is a significantly more comfortable experience.
The interior and boot area can now be used in a wider variety of ways. Boot capacity is up by 30 litres to 335 litres with the roof closed and by 20 litres to 280 litres with the soft-top open. The width of the opening to the load area between the rear lights has been increased by 35 millimetres. The soft-top compartment can be raised using a lever in the boot. In this way, up to five crates of water bottles, for example, can be loaded into the boot when the roof is closed. A through-loading facility can be specified for the BMW 2 Series Convertible as an option; the aperture between the boot and rear compartment, available for use when the rear seat bench is folded down, has been expanded in width by 150 to 450 millimetres and in height by 28 to 246 millimetres. As a result, owners can now transport two 46-inch golfbags, for example, or a pair of snowboards.
With large door pockets, a roomy glove compartment, two cupholders in the centre console and a storage compartment under the armrest, the BMW 2 Series Convertible also offers increased stowage capacity inside the passenger compartment. The lower section of the door trim offers space for drinks bottles up to one litre in size, while the optional storage package includes features such as cargo nets on the back of the front seats and securing lugs and nets in the boot. A trailer coupling can be ordered for all model variants of the open-top four-seater with the exception of the BMW M235i Convertible.
Extensive standard equipment and high-class options with convertible-specific functions and characteristics. The extensive range of standard equipment fitted in the BMW 2 Series Convertible also helps to enhance the open-top driving pleasure in the compact premium car. Furthermore, high-quality options allow owners to fulfil personal preferences and raise comfort levels yet another notch higher. Both standard specifications and the options list contain examples of innovative technology and clever details that satisfy convertible-specific requirements.
The BMW 2 Series Convertible’s fully automatic soft-top mechanism is a standard feature, as are remote control central locking, height adjustment for the driver’s and front passenger seat, and the BMW Business radio with CD player, six loudspeakers and AUX-in socket. The likewise standard-fitted Driving Experience Control switch allows the driver to adjust the car’s suspension set-up as desired in COMFORT, SPORT and ECO PRO modes. Drivers of the BMW M235i Convertible can also select a SPORT+ setting. When the roof is open, the automatic climate control system (also part of standard specification) activates a convertible mode, which also takes into account the speed at which the car is travelling during its adjustments to the onboard temperature and ventilation. For example, at higher speeds the intensity of the cooling or heating effect is automatically increased in order to ensure the in-car temperature is as pleasant as possible.
The items on the options list include electrically adjustable and heated seats, a multifunction steering wheel, automatically dimming exterior and rear-view mirrors, front foglamps and Comfort Access. The surfaces of the optional leather trim, moreover, are treated with SunReflective technology, which uses special colour pigments to significantly reduce the degree to which the leather is heated by the sun’s rays.
Another convertible-specific option is the wind protection system that can be set up in the rear of the car. The new version of the wind deflector introduced for the BMW 2 Series Convertible stands out with its particularly impressive ease of use. Its lower section can be raised to allow items to be loaded onto the rear seat bench and enable use of the through-loading facility. If the wind deflector is not required, it can be folded up into a compact package and stowed away.
The BMW 2 Series Convertible is fitted as standard with the BMW Professional radio and the BMW iDrive operating system, which includes a freestanding onboard monitor in flatscreen design. The Control Display comes in 6.5 or 8.8-inch form, depending on the version specified, while the Controller on the centre console has a touch-sensitive surface (if the Navigation system Professional is fitted) which allows the driver to input characters. Among the equipment available to fulfil individual communication and entertainment requirements are a hands-free system complete with USB socket, a Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) receiver and the Harman Kardon HiFi system.
The driving experience: Customised agility and comfort, top-class efficiency.
Perfect for relaxed city or out-of-town cruising, the BMW 2 Series Convertible also offers dynamic performance that is impressive for a compact open-top model, not to mention outstanding efficiency. These many talents come courtesy of state-of-the-art engines with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, an extensive range of standard-fitted BMW EfficientDynamics technologies, a typical BMW rear-wheel-drive set-up and advanced chassis technology. All engine versions are more powerful than their corresponding predecessors, while at the same time boasting reduced fuel consumption and emissions. The power hike is anything up to 20 kW in each case, while fuel consumption has been reduced by an average of 18 per cent. The chassis design and tuning is matched both to the special needs of the convertible format and to the enhanced performance. The new models also come with an unusually extensive range of optional chassis systems. To sum up, the BMW 2 Series Convertible combines maximum driving enjoyment in a premium compact-segment format with an exhilarating open-top driving experience.
The market launch of the BMW 2 Series Convertible will also mark the debut in a BMW compact model of a four-cylinder diesel unit from the new BMW Group engine family. This new 2.0-litre engine, fitted in the BMW 220d Convertible, generates a maximum power of 140 kW/190 hp. Customers can also choose between two four-cylinder petrol engines with 180 kW/245 hp (in the BMW 228i Convertible) and 135 kW/184 hp (in the BMW 220i Convertible). Completing the line-up is a six-cylinder in-line 240 kW/326 hp unit in the BMW M235i Convertible (see chapter 6). All the engines can be combined with the eight-speed Steptronic transmission, which is the only unit of its kind in the compact segment and which brings further reductions in fuel consumption and emissions compared with the standard six-speed manual unit.
BMW 228i Convertible: superior power for typical driving enjoyment. Aided by BMW TwinPower Turbo technology with twin-scroll turbocharger, High Precision Direct Petrol Injection, VALVETRONIC fully variable valve timing and Double-VANOS variable camshaft timing, the four-cylinder petrol engine of the BMW 228i Convertible generates maximum power of 180 kW/245hp between 5,000 and 6,500 rpm from a displacement of 2.0 litres. Its peak torque of 350 Newton metres can be harnessed all the way from 1,250 to 4,800 rpm for sporty power and performance.
The BMW 228i Convertible completes the 0–100 km/h (62 mph) sprint in 6.1 seconds. Average EU fuel consumption is 6.8 litres/100 km (41.5 mpg imp), with CO2 emissions of 159 g/km. Fitted with the optional eight-speed Steptronic transmission, which offers an even better balance between performance and consumption, the figures are improved to 0-100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.0 seconds, and fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of 6.6 l/100 km (42.8 mpg imp) and 154 g/km respectively.
BMW 220i Convertible: responsive power and performance, impressive efficiency. The four-cylinder petrol engine fitted in the BMW 220i Convertible focuses on responsive power delivery, high revving ability and outstanding efficiency. Its maximum power of 135 kW/184 hp is generated between 5,000 and 6,250 rpm, with a peak torque of 270 Newton metres on stream between 1,250 and 4,500 rpm.
The BMW 220i Convertible clocks up a 0–100 km/h (62 mph) time of 7.5 seconds (automatic: 7.6 seconds). Average fuel consumption (as per EU test cycle, depending on tyre format) is between 6.8 and 6.5 l/100 km / 41.5–43.5 mpg imp (automatic: 6.4–6.2 l/100 km / 44.1 –45.6 mpg imp), with CO2 emissions of 159–152 g/km (automatic: 149–144 g/km).
BMW 220d Convertible: latest-generation four-cylinder diesel engine. Making its debut in a BMW compact model (the BMW 220d Convertible) is a representative of the new BMW Group engine family, which boasts both power and efficiency improvements over the predecessor model. The new 2.0-litre unit features top-class BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and generates a maximum power of 140 kW/190 hp at 4,000 rpm, a hike of 10 kW over the BMW 120d Convertible. The maximum torque of 400 Newton metres (+ 50 Nm) is at the ready between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. The aluminium crankcase features thermally joined cylinder liners to reduce internal friction and integrated balancer shafts. The new engine also incorporates a turbocharger system with further enhanced efficiency and a further improved common-rail direct injection system, whose solenoid injectors are now capable of a maximum pressure of 2,000 bar, allowing for even more precise fuel metering. The new engine is also two kilograms lighter than the predecessor unit as well as boasting further advances in noise reduction.
The new four-cylinder diesel unit propels the BMW 220d Convertible from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.5 seconds (automatic: 7.4 seconds). Average fuel consumption (as per EU test cycle, depending on tyre format) has been reduced to between 4.7 and 4.4 l/100 km / 60.1–64.2 mpg imp (automatic: 4.4 – 4.1 litres / 64.2–68.9 mpg imp), with CO2 emissions of between 124 and 116 g/km (automatic: 116–108 g/km).
Unmatched in the compact segment: eight-speed Steptronic transmission and eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission with Launch Control. As standard, all the engines are combined with a six-speed manual transmission. Alternatively and optionally, they can be specified with an eight-speed Steptronic unit. The new manual transmission fitted in the BMW 220d Convertible is equipped with engagement speed control. A gear selection sensor matches the engine rpm to the transmission input shaft rpm, resulting in the smoothest possible gear changes. The eight-speed Steptronic transmission in the BMW 220d Convertible is likewise further improved. An increased ratio spread, optimised internal efficiency, further improved transmission management and a new vibration damper reduce noise levels and improve driving comfort, shift times and efficiency.
Also available for all model versions is the extra-fast-shifting eight-speed Steptronic sport transmission. Steering wheel paddle shifters allow the driver to intervene manually when desired, while a Launch Control function provides the best possible traction and dynamics when accelerating from standstill.
Driving Experience Control switch fitted as standard; ECO PRO mode with coasting function and Proactive Driving Assistant. The standard-fitted Driving Experience Control switch allows drivers to choose between COMFORT, SPORT and ECO PRO driving modes. On vehicles fitted with at least one of the following options – eight-speed Steptronic sport transmission, M Sport package, BMW Sport Line, Adaptive M Suspension or variable sport steering – a fourth mode is available: SPORT+.
In ECO PRO mode, which supports relaxed, fuel-efficient driving, models with automatic transmission also feature a coasting function. This function decouples the engine from the rest of the drivetrain when the accelerator is released at speeds between 50 and 160 km/h (approx. 30–100 mph). Vehicles with the Navigation system Professional also come with a Proactive Driving Assistant function, which tells the driver when to lift off the throttle ahead of features such as corners, turn-offs, roundabouts and speed limits. Standard-specification BMW EfficientDynamics technology includes Brake Energy Regeneration, on-demand operation of ancillary units, Electric Power Steering, Optimum Gearshift Indicator and the Auto Start Stop function, which can be combined with either a manual or an automatic transmission.
Chassis: precise tuning and wide range of optional systems for enhanced sporty performance and comfort. The driving experience in the BMW 2 Series Convertible is defined by an outstanding balance between sporty performance and comfort, courtesy of highly advanced, precision-tuned chassis technology, which includes a double-joint tie-bar front axle with spring struts and stabilisers as well as a five-link rear axle, an electrically assisted rack-and-pinion steering system and a high-performance brake system. With its low-weight components, the increase in track width and wheelbase compared with the previous model, the rear-wheel-drive set-up, the low centre of gravity and the balanced load distribution between the front and rear axle, the BMW 2 Series Convertible chassis is ideally equipped to offer excellent agility, precise handling and confident and superior driving comfort.
Standard-fitted DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) includes functions such as the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC) and Dynamic Brake Control (DBC). These systems are complemented by Brake Assist, Fading Compensation, the Brake Drying function, the Start-Off Assistant and the Active Differential Brake (ADB-Sport) on the rear axle, which is active even in DSC-Off mode.
The BMW 228i Convertible is equipped as standard with 17-inch alloy wheels. 16-inch alloys are standard on all other model versions. Further 17 and 18-inch alloy wheels are available as optional equipment, while the accessories range includes 19-inch forged BMW M Performance alloy wheels.
A range of optional chassis systems allows performance and comfort to be matched to customers’ individual needs. Systems include Servotronic speed-sensitive power assist and variable sport steering, which features a variable-ratio steering rack that reduces the steering effort as the steering angle increases, for example when parking or making a turn.
Vehicles with the M Sport package can also be specified with the M Sport brake system featuring four-piston fixed callipers at the front, two-piston fixed callipers at the rear and extra-large brake discs. The callipers are painted dark blue and carry the M logo. The BMW M Performance braking system, available from the Original BMW Accessories range, features even larger, perforated and grooved discs as well as callipers painted in either red, orange or yellow.
Also optionally available are Adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers and M Sport suspension with extra-stiff springing and damping. Both systems feature a 10-millimetre reduction in ride height. From the accessories range, BMW M Performance sports suspension is available, offering a 20-millimetre reduction in ride height over the standard system, custom dampers and shorter, red-painted coil springs.
The BMW M235i Convertible: An adrenaline raiser.
The BMW M Performance Automobile line-up continues to augment its variety and charisma. Following two BMW X models, two versions each based on the BMW 5 Series and BMW 1 Series, as well as the BMW M235i Coupe, now the first ever M Performance open-top model is set to offer the characteristic M brand of intensive driving enjoyment. The BMW M235i Convertible is gearing up to raise the adrenaline of motor sport fans courtesy of a 240 kW/326 hp six-cylinder in-line M Performance TwinPower Turbo engine that delivers a 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) time of just 5.2 seconds or 5.0 seconds in conjunction with the optional eight-speed Steptronic sport transmission. Aerodynamically optimised body features and custom chassis components are matched with typical M precision to the engine performance characteristics, ensuring a perfect blend of outstanding agility and precisely controllable handling at all times. The BMW M235i Convertible amps up the passion and adrenaline of dynamic open-top driving to new heights. Like its BMW M235i Coupe stablemate, the open four-seater also has a distinctive and authentic character rooted in the experience of BMW M GmbH as a developer of high-performance sports cars for general everyday use. Drawing on this exclusive know-how, the BMW M235i Convertible provides the perfect balance of engine power, chassis engineering and aerodynamic characteristics to deliver levels of agility, precision and emotional intensity that are unsurpassed in the premium compact segment.
Straight-six engine with M Performance TwinPower Turbo technology and thrilling performance characteristics. Like the M235i Coupe, the M235i Convertible is fitted with the most powerful petrol engine hitherto available for a BMW M Performance Automobile, which delivers performance in a class of its own. This straight-six engine 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 timing and Double-VANOS variable camshaft timing. A cooling system, engine management and engine sound tuning, all of which have been exclusively customised to the requirements of the BMW 2 Series M Performance models, complete the picture. Maximum power of 240 kW/326 hp is generated at between 5,800 and 6,000 rpm, from a displacement of 3.0 litres. The maximum torque of 450 Newton metres is available between 1,300 and 4,500 rpm.
As standard, the BMW M235i Convertible is fitted with a six-speed manual gearbox with dry sump lubrication. Its short-throw action provides extra-sporty shifting and helps the BMW M Performance model deliver a 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration time of 5.2 seconds. With the optional eight-speed Steptronic sport transmission with Launch Control function, this is slashed to 5.0 seconds. 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. This helps the BMW M235i Convertible to achieve average fuel consumption of 8.5 litres/100 km (33.2 mpg imp) and CO2 emissions of 199 g/km in the EU test cycle. And if the eight-speed Steptronic sport transmission is specified, the figures can be further improved to 7.9 l/100 km (35.8 mpg imp) and 184 g/km. Agile and precise custom chassis technology. Thanks to typical precision-tuned M custom chassis technology, in the BMW M235i Convertible outstanding engine performance is translated into assured driving dynamics. Custom-configured suspension and damping systems as well as special front-axle elastokinematics are adapted both to the performance characteristics of the six-cylinder engine and to the specific requirements of the open body style. The M Sport brakes and variable sport steering – the latter again specially configured – are standard specification on the BMW M235i Convertible.
Also standard are exclusive 18-inch M alloy wheels with mixed tyres in size 225/40 R18 at the front and size 245/35 R18 at the rear. These specially developed high-grip tyres optimally transmit all dynamic drive forces to the road. The Original BMW Accessories range additionally offers 19-inch forged BMW M Performance alloy wheels.
The range of products available for the BMW M235i Convertible also includes the BMW M Performance limited-slip differential. The mechanical rear differential with integral torque-sensing differential lock varies the drive-torque split between the rear wheels for optimised traction whenever the Driving Stability Control system (DSC) is switched off. Reacting to torque differences between the driven wheels, its locking action reduces slip at the wheel with less traction by transferring more drive to the other wheel. This ensures that engine power is converted as efficiently as possible into propulsion, for even sharper and more dynamic acceleration out of corners.
Optimised aerodynamic balance, sports car flavour in the cockpit. The precisely controllable handling of the BMW M235i Convertible is partly down to custom chassis technology but partly also to an optimised aerodynamic balance. Aerodynamically styled body parts, which include an M-style front apron, are a hallmark of the BMW M235i Convertible’s design. The large air intakes in this apron, with flaps adapted from racing car design, extend into the area which on the other versions of the BMW 2 Series Convertible is reserved for the fog lamps. Following the typical styling idiom of BMW M Performance Automobiles, the air intakes are bisected by horizontal ribs in Ferric Grey metallic. The exterior mirror caps are finished in the same colour. Further exterior design features include the striking side sill contouring and a rear apron whose lower section, in Dark Shadow metallic, also incorporates the twin tailpipes in black chrome.
Further exclusive design features include door sill finishers with aluminium inserts bearing “M235i” lettering and a specially “tuned” interior that features sports seats for the driver and front passenger, an M leather steering wheel with multifunction buttons, Aluminium Hexagon interior trim with accent strips in matt Estoril Blue or high-gloss black, leather trim for the gearshift lever/selector lever and handbrake lever gaiter, and an M driver’s footrest. The custom instrument cluster features red markings and numbers for the speedometer and rev counter, while the instrument cluster with extended features additionally has a digitally produced model designation. Rounding off the interior specifications of the BMW M235i Convertible are variable-colour interior lighting and blue detailing for the car key.
BMW ConnectedDrive in the BMW 2 Series Convertible: Debut for over-the-air updating.
Intelligent connectivity between driver, vehicle and outside world is yet another area in which the BMW 2 Series Convertible affirms its benchmark position in this class along with its advances over the previous model. The wide range of standard-fitted and optional driver assistance systems and mobility services from BMW ConnectedDrive – designed to optimise comfort, safety and the infotainment experience – is unique in the compact segment. On top of this, the BMW 2 Series Convertible is the first model of the brand to be available with the new-generation Professional navigation system, featuring free-of-charge over-the-air updating of navigation data via the built-in SIM card. In a further first for the BMW 2 Series Convertible, this (standard-fitted) SIM card is capable of supporting the LTE wireless standard, enabling fast and reliable data transfer.
Highlights among the new model’s BMW ConnectedDrive driver assistance systems include the anti-dazzle High Beam Assistant, the optional Driving Assistant, the Parking Assistant and the rear view camera. The optional ConnectedDrive Services package provides an optimised platform for using telephone and internet-based services, while further innovative functions can be integrated into the car’s operating system via apps.
Convenient, free-of-charge and always up to date: over-the-air updating of navigation data. With the debut of the latest generation of the optional Navigation system Professional in the BMW 2 Series Convertible, navigation comfort and reliability on the road have been taken to a whole new level. This system regularly updates its navigation data several times a year, whenever a new map version becomes available. And there are no licence fees or data transfer charges for the user.
The new map data is relayed to the vehicle wirelessly via the SIM card, so there is no need for manual installation from external data storage devices. The update is installed conveniently and completely automatically, with progress being shown in the Control Display. Regular updating means there is never any delay before users are able to use the latest map software – and continue enjoying a perfect navigation experience. What’s more, all navigation features remain fully functional during the updating process. No registration is required for automatic updating and users do not have to log on to a portal.
To support further improved data transfer for this and other BMW ConnectedDrive functions – such as the Navigation system Professional’s RTTI feature – the BMW 2 Series Convertible’s built-in SIM card supports the LTE wireless standard. The new high-speed internet technology provides much faster data transfer rates – up to five times the speed of the previous 3G wireless technology.
Internet-based services can be integrated into the car via apps. The basis for this new dimension in intelligent connectivity is the optional ConnectedDrive Services package, which gives customers access to the internet, the Concierge Service telephone information facility, the remote functions, the BMW Online portal and the BMW ConnectedDrive range of online entertainment features. The Intelligent Emergency Call function and BMW TeleServices, meanwhile, are standard specification on the BMW 2 Series Convertible.
Many other functions can be added at any time using apps – either via a smartphone integrated with the vehicle using special interface technology or via the built-in SIM card. These include web radio functions and social media services such as Facebook and Twitter. This flexible apps strategy makes it possible to incorporate not just proprietary BMW Group apps but also BMW Apps-ready applications from other providers. This will allow BMW drivers to seamlessly transfer a host of functions they already use at home to their car.
Enhanced convenience, safety and driving enjoyment with innovative driver assistance systems. The BMW ConnectedDrive range of driver assistance systems available for the BMW 2 Series Convertible is unrivalled in terms of variety. Among its numerous features is a rain sensor with automatic headlight activation. If the optional bi-xenon headlights are specified, the vehicle can also be equipped with Adaptive Headlights including cornering light, variable headlight distribution and adaptive headlight range control for city and motorway driving. Customers can also order their car with the anti-dazzle High Beam Assistant.
Through variable partial masking of the headlight beam, this function prevents dazzle for oncoming traffic. Precise and convenient manoeuvring is facilitated by Park Distance Control and the rear view camera, which displays its images on the iDrive operating system’s Control Display. The likewise optional Parking Assistant assists the driver in selecting and manoeuvring into parallel parking spaces.
In addition to Cruise Control with braking function and Speed Limit Info with No Passing Info Display, the BMW 2 Series Convertible can also be specified with the innovative Driving Assistant option. This system includes the camera-based systems Lane Departure Warning and Collision Warning as well as the Attention Assistant. Lane Departure Warning can be used at speeds over 70 km/h (43.5 mph) and alerts drivers by means of a visual signal in the instrument cluster and a vibration of the steering wheel rim if they are inadvertently drifting out of their lane. At speeds upwards of 15 km/h (approx. 10 mph), Collision Warning detects if the vehicle is getting too close to traffic in front. In this case, as well as providing visual and audible warnings, the system also primes the brakes in order to minimise the braking distance the moment the driver intervenes.
