BMW 3-series convertible (2006): first official pictures

BMW 3-series convertible: the lowdown

Here's the car BMW said it wouldn't develop: a 3-series convertible with a folding hard-top. Although condemned by the R&D team for being too heavy, raising the centre of gravity and sapping dynamic ability, BMW has been forced to listen to the market and introduce a glass and steel-roofed cabrio. With a large boot and easy access for luggage, the 3-series convertible promises to be practical, and the extra glass compared with a fabric cabrio should make it airy too. Sun reflective leather is a claimed world first, too. But despite 'near 50:50 weight distribution', will the roof compromise BMW's ultimate driving machine mantra? The 3-series convertible goes on UK sale in March. Two six-cylinder petrol engines will be available at launch: the naturally aspirated 2.5- and the 3.0-litre twin-turbo. The 325i will cost £33,030, the 335i £37,895.
Plenty of performance

Until we drive it, we won't know if folding roof has impaired the 3-series coupe's decent dynamics. But one thing's for sure: the 335i won't disappoint in a straight line. The flagship model – until the V8-powered M3 arrives – runs BMW's new twin turbocharged 3.0-litre, tested by CAR Online in the 335i coupe. Delivering 306bhp and 295lb ft of torque, the blown petrol six despatches the 0-62mph sprint in 5.8sec. That's just 0.3sec slower than the lighter 335i coupe. Top speed is electronically reined in to 155mph. The other launch engine is the 2.5-litre naturally aspirated six, yielding 218bhp and 200lb ft. The 0-62mph dash takes 7.6sec, fuel consumption is a claimed 35.8mpg on the combined cycle and v-max is 152mph. Both engines are mated to a standard six-speed manual, with a six-speed auto, with quicker shifts than before and paddleshift manual over-ride, optional.