Few other automobiles stir emotions quite like a convertible. Whether it's the feeling of freedom created by top-down driving or their seductive shapes, convertibles have long been regarded by many car enthusiasts and casual onlookers alike as providing a one-of-a-kind exhilarating driving experience.

As proof of their special lure, late last year Neiman-Marcus sold 50 specially equipped BMW M6 Convertibles featured in the retailer’s Christmas catalog in one minute, 32 seconds. Acknowledging the special experience of open-air motoring when reviewing the new 3 Series Convertibles' predecessor, the editors of Car and Driver observed, "the beauty of the convertible is that you can fully appreciate its sophisticated exhaust note as you patrol boulevards with the top down."

The new BMW 3 Series Convertibles provide a new dimension to that experience with the introduction of a retractable hardtop. Made of lightweight steel and operated by a hydraulic system, the three-piece roof opens in just 22 seconds - takes only one second more to close - and folds smoothly into the rear compartment of BMW's newest convertibles. The three-element steel roof structure ensures lower noise levels even at high speeds, enhances safety, creates a more luxurious and comfortable cabin and helps stiffen the chassis to provide precise handling.

The roof opens automatically in a flowing motion as each of the three elements rests above the other to create a compact package. The rear lid opens rearward and once the roof has been opened or closed and the hardtop is locked, the driver is able to open the trunklid in the usual manner. The trunklid also comes with a soft-close feature that draws the lid down gently and automatically.

The roof and luggage compartments are separated from one another by a partition that swivels when the roof is closed to provide maximum luggage capacity. Another convenient feature is that the roof can open by remote control when the car is equipped with the Comfort Access option . Like the roof controls within the interior, the remote control button must be kept pressed down for safety during the entire opening process because movement of the roof elements is interrupted whenever the button is released.

A fresh interpretation of a traditional shape

The shape of the new BMW 3 Series Convertible is characterized by well-balanced proportions that create an unmistakable silhouette. The long hood reflects BMW's adherence to the tradition of inline 6-cylinder engines. The long wheelbase, short overhangs, set-back passenger compartment and low roof line are all traditional BMW 3 Series Convertible characteristics.

In addition to these classic proportions, three design lines - the shoulder, character and sill lines - contribute to the sleek appearance. Whether the roof is retracted into the luggage compartment or closed, the new model continues the low shoulder line that has characterized the previous three generations of BMW 3 Series Convertibles. Both the shoulder line and character line stretch uninterrupted to the back of the car, allowing the viewer's eyes to move quickly and smoothly from front to rear along the car's entire length. The sill line along the lower edge of the door flows into the front and rear air dams, visually reinforcing the dynamic nature of BMW's newest convertibles.

While the shoulder line rises slightly but consistently from front to rear, the character line flows in a long, stretched arch all the way from the front fender to the taillights. As the sill line, by contrast, moves up slightly to the rear in a slow and gentle curve, the distance between the character and sill lines becomes smaller near the rear wheel arches. The fenders flares around each rear wheel also give the character line extra tension in both an upward and outward direction.

The front view reveals a significant distinction from the current 3 Series Sedan and Sports Wagon. The contours of the hood as well as the design of the front air dam and headlights give the new BMW 3 Series Convertibles a particularly low and sporty look. The hood's powerdome alludes to the unique driving experience that awaits. Its lines form a powerful silhouette extending all the way from the A-pillars to the outside corners of the BMW kidney grille.

That kidney grille, a traditional feature of every BMW, stands out from the surfaces around it. Interaction with the three-dimensional kidney frame creates a look of power and unique style.

Since there are no conventional B-pillars, the feeling of open-air driving can still be achieved with just the side windows opened. Approaching the C-pillars, the traditional "Hofmeister kink" can be clearly seen. The rear window is fixed glass with an electric defroster for safety and convenience. The rear and side windows are 30 percent larger than their predecessors, offering improved rear visibility.

The headlight units on the new BMW 3 Series Convertibles have a unique look. With the hood extending beyond the headlights, they appear to have been sliced-off at the top creating a sense of powerful, concentrated focus. The convertibles come standard in the U.S. with Xenon Adaptive headlights, highlighted by BMW's corona light rings. The rings can not only serve as daytime running lights (if that feature is selected via the Vehicle & Key Memory System), but also draw attention to BMW's characteristic four round headlights, making the new convertible instantly recognizable as a BMW, day or night.

The taillights are integrated flush into the body, and the lights are split into two sections and extend up the trunk lid, blending with the character line from the side profile. Horizontal LED taillights give the car an unmistakable look at night. The horizontal flowing lines accentuate the convertible's wide track and low stance.

The 3 Series Convertibles' navigation and radio antennae are integrated within the car in order to not detract from the clean lines of the bodywork. Radio reception with the roof open is ensured by aerials in the side panels, while aerials in the rear window are automatically activated as soon as the roof is closed. Convertibles with the optional SIRIUS satellite radio are equipped with a separate antenna mounted on the rear deck lid.

Flowing lines provide an elegant interior
Like the exterior, the interior of the new 3 Series Convertibles features sleek and flowing lines, powerful and tense surfaces and a highly attractive combination of convex and concave design elements.

The controls for air conditioning, audio and navigation systems were designed for optimum visibility and are within easy reach for the front passenger. Several controls and switches, including the door handles and gearshift lever are finished in Pearl Gray metal to provide a premium feel and an elegant appearance.

The side panels feature a smooth and sweeping design flow that extends from the dashboard to the backrests of the two rear seats. The center console also extends to the rear, serving as a storage compartment between the rear seats. Ambiance lighting, mounted on the door and the rear side panels, projects a warm, indirect lighting effect.

New engines provide more power, save weight
Two new 3 Series Convertible models are available in the U.S., both powered by new inline 6-cylinder engines that are more powerful and lighter than their predecessors. The 328i Convertible's 3.0-liter turbine-smooth powerplant produces 230 hp at 6,500 rpm and 200 lb-ft at 2,750 rpm. The 335i Convertible is powered by BMW's first turbocharged gasoline engine in over 20 years, featuring twin turbochargers, an air-to-air intercooler and High Precision direct fuel injection that generate 300 hp.

Progress immediately obvious by pressing the accelerator
The 328i Convertible's N52 3.0 liter, 230 hp inline 6-cylinder engine features magnesium/aluminum construction and BMW's innovative Valvetronic system which eliminates the conventional throttle body for throttle control, technology found only on BMW engines. Compared to the M54 engine family of the new 3 Series Convertibles' predecessors, the N52 achieves impressive progress on all fronts.

The new engine has more power: 230 hp vs. 184 hp, greater torque: 200 lb-ft. vs. 175, and torque characteristics across the broad range of engine speeds. Its "red line" is
7,000 rpm compared to 6,500 for the M54. Model for model, EPA mileage ratings are either the same or improved – this, with dramatically improved performance.

The N52 weighs 22 lb. less than its predecessor. Had BMW engineers developed the previous engine to meet their goals, it would have added approximately 30 lb. and thus would have weighed 52 lb. more than the new engine. Because there is just one external drive belt, compared to the previous two, overall engine length is about an inch shorter.

An aluminum/magnesium engine block exclusive to BMW, hollow camshafts, plastic camshaft cover, improved combustion chambers, a further evolved Double VANOS , higher fuel injection pressure, all-new engine electronics, an electric coolant pump, a variable-volume oil pump and an oil/coolant heat exchanger are the other weight-saving features and improvements of the new engine that can be noticed with application of the accelerator pedal. Speaking of which, acceleration from 0 to 60 mph is achieved in a spirited 6.7 seconds for the 6-speed manual and in 7.2 seconds for convertibles equipped with the STEPTRONIC 6-speed automatic transmission. The top speed of the 328i is electronically limited to 130 mph or 150 mph if equipped with the optional Sport Package.

BMW's other approach to modern 6-cylinder power
It is the most powerful engine within BMW's wide range of inline 6-cylinder driving machines that does not wear an "M" badge. This brand-new engine, designated N54, develops a maximum output of 300 hp in U.S. specifications from 3.0 liters displacement and generates peak torque of 300 lb-ft for powerful acceleration in any situation. And it achieves these results using technology that might surprise students of BMW history: turbocharging.

Although it is standard equipment on its highly acclaimed diesel engines, BMW has not used turbocharging with a road-going gasoline powerplant since the 1980's. Until now, the BMW 745i Sedan, which debuted in 1981, and the iconic BMW 2002 Turbo, introduced at the 1973 Frankfurt auto show, were the only two standard production, gasoline-powered BMWs to employ the technology.

While the technology works as advertised, BMW engineers were not satisfied with the most often-cited downside to turbocharging; the frustrating lag between when the driver presses the accelerator pedal and when the turbocharger develops sufficient rotation to increase power. Typical turbo lag is at its worst at low engine speeds. Other drawbacks included relatively high fuel consumption; in addition, available materials did not always fare well under the high-heat, high-rpm operation of the turbocharger, which gets its energy from hot, flowing exhaust gases and typically spins up to 5-figure rpm's. For these and other reasons, BMW put turbocharged gasoline engines on the shelf for more than 20 years.

Two recent developments caused BMW to reconsider turbocharging: a trend among many luxury-performance carmakers to achieve power gains by building engines of ever-increasing displacement and technology transfer from turbocharged diesel engine development to their gasoline-fired counterparts.

Accordingly, BMW recently articulated its new approach to developing high-performance engines as part of its EfficientDynamics initiative. Beginning with the N52 normally aspirated engine and the N54 turbocharged unit, BMW will achieve its performance goals with smaller, lighter, more efficient and cleaner-running engines.

The all-new N54 features twin, relatively small turbochargers to boost performance significantly, but, at the same time, minimize the response lag. Thanks to their lower inertia, two small turbochargers build up pressure much faster than a single, large turbocharger, thus eliminating even the slightest response lag. The front turbocharger feeds cylinders 1-3; the rear unit delivers super-compressed air to cylinders 4-6.

A further advantage of turbocharging is that this is the most weight-efficient method to boost engine power and performance. The N54 turbocharged inline 6 weighs approximately 150 lbs. less than an equally powerful eight-cylinder engine displacing 4.0 liters. This lower weight means a significant advantage not only in fuel economy, but also in balancing the car's weight distribution.

To enhance efficiency, the turbochargers are made of a particularly heat-resistant material which makes them immune to high exhaust gas temperatures in the interest of a fuel-efficient combustion process particularly under full load.

As a result, the twin turbo technology in the BMW 335i Convertible represents a significant achievement in terms of both performance and fuel economy. The advantages over a conventional turbocharged engine are not only clearly measurable, but easy to feel on the road.

This new high-performance engine gives the aerodynamically sculpted convertible outstanding acceleration and flexibility. The twin turbo powerplant develops its power and performance much more spontaneously than a turbocharged engine of conventional design.

At the same time the new engine offers all the smoothness and refinement which made BMW's award-winning inline sixes so admired. Last but certainly not least, the impressive increase in power on the twin turbo engine versus a conventional normally aspirated 6-cylinder engine comes without any increase in fuel consumption.

Turbocharging typically includes intercooling of the engine's induction air, in other words, cooling the compressed air that emerges super-heated by the compression process from the turbocharger(s). Sometimes it's done with coolant; in the case of the N54 engine, it's accomplished with outside air. Intercooling is desirable, often necessary, to reduce the temperature of the incoming air to preclude detonation or "knocking" that can reduce power or, in the extreme, damage the engine. Naturally, the N54, like the N52 and all other current BMW engines, is equipped with knock control.

As effective as the magnesium/aluminum engine construction is for saving weight, the significantly increased loads and cylinder pressures of the N54 300-hp engine required the use of an aluminum engine structure with cast-iron cylinder sleeves. Of course, some, but not all, of the N52's magnesium/aluminum weight saving was lost. The N54 weighs 419 lb., the N52, 357 lb.

A new high-precision direct fuel injection system with Piezo injectors also enhances performance and fuel efficiency. A second-generation evolution of the system found on the 760's V12 engine, it is a key factor in achieving BMW's goals for this engine. The new system's main advance over its predecessor is that it provides the engineers a greater degree of freedom in the calibration of fuel quantity and timing and the distribution of the fuel-air mixture in the combustion chamber.

A Piezo injector, a recent advancement in fuel injector technology, uses an actuator that takes the place of the solenoid valve in a conventional injector. The actuator, which works much faster than the solenoid, significantly reduces the injector's response time. That results in, according to researchers who led the Piezo injector's development, a 2-3 percent fuel savings and 20 percent less emissions.

The 335i Convertible's dual exhaust system runs at both sides of the vehicle - logical, as each contains its own turbocharger turbine and therefore requires extra space. At low loads, a flap channels most gas through one side to reduce low-frequency exhaust "rumble." The 335i features an air-to-air external oil cooler mounted in one wheel well as opposed to the N52's coolant-to-oil unit.

The peak power of 300 hp has already been mentioned; this is 45 more than last year's 330Ci and 70 up on the new 328i Convertible. At least as important is the fact that this engine can deliver its peak torque from 1400 rpm - not far above idling - to 5000 rpm. On the road, this power and torque result in outstanding performance. The 335i Convertible equipped with the 6-speed manual transmission accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 5.5 seconds; 5.7 seconds with the 6-speed STEPTRONIC automatic transmission. This sense of urgency continues all the way to the electronically limited top speed of 150 mph when equipped with the optional Sport Package.

New automatic transmission with optional shift paddles
A thoroughly enhanced 6-speed STEPTRONIC automatic transmission is available as an option on both models to meet the greatest demands for comfort and performance. A quicker and more responsive hydraulic control system, together with an innovative new torque converter and significantly enhanced control software ensure reaction times that are 40 percent faster than conventional automatic transmissions. In addition, gear change time has been almost halved. The torque converter clutch connects the engine more directly to enhance performance, quicken response and improve fuel economy.

If the driver wishes to control the transmission directly, paddles on the steering wheel provide direct gear selection when in manual mode. Because the gear shift paddles can be activated directly at any time, even if the selector lever is in Drive, the manual gearshift function always provides extremely spontaneous performance. Shift paddles are an available option on the 335i when ordered with automatic transmission and Sport Package.

Innovative suspension technology for maximum precision
With power transmitted to the rear wheels, the rack-and-pinion steering remains free of drive forces thus able to provide optimum feedback to the driver and steering precision. Optional Active Steering varies the steering ratio as a function of road speed for a higher steering ratio at the same steering wheel angle at low speeds than at high speeds. This enables the driver to control the car even more smoothly and with minimal effort, while remaining precisely on course at high speeds.

Featuring a double-pivot McPherson strut-type aluminum suspension in front and a 5-link independent rear suspension, the new BMW 3 Series Convertibles boast the most advanced suspension in their class. Further advantages are a low center of gravity, well-balanced axle load and special damper set-up to give the new convertibles their impressive dynamic driving qualities.

The standard 17-inch alloy wheels run on 225/45R17 tires with run-flat technology. Even with a complete loss of air pressure in one tire, the vehicle can continue to be driven for up to 150 miles at 50 mph to get to the nearest service station. BMW's new Tire Pressure Monitor warns the driver as soon as the pressure in any tire drops more than 25 percent below the optimum level.

Dynamic Stability Control: enhanced functions for peace of mind and driving enjoyment
The 3 Series Convertibles' highly effective Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) has been upgraded with new functions. The latest generation of DSC technology controls brake functions and vehicle stability on slippery roads by applying individual wheel brakes and reducing engine output. Enhanced functions of this system include:

• Brake Drying. By lightly applying the pads periodically in wet weather conditions to dry them, optimum stopping power can also be experienced in the wet.
• Brake Standby. Preloads the brake pads to enhance brake response whenever the driver suddenly lifts off the accelerator pedal.
• Brake Fade Compensation. Maximizes brake pressure in extreme driving conditions for consistent brake pedal pressure no matter how hot the brakes become.
• Cornering Brake Control. Counteracts unwanted oversteer when applying the brakes slightly in a bend and, in conjunction with Active Steering, can countersteer appropriately to maintain stability.
• Start-off Assistant. Holds the vehicle for three seconds when stopped going uphill to prevent rolling back when releasing the brake pedal.
• Dynamic Stability Control ensures optimum traction on loose surfaces, while Dynamic Traction Control can be adjusted to raise the threshold when it intervenes for a sportier style of driving, allowing light wheel slip on the drive wheels. DSC may be deactivated completely if the driver desires.

The convertible bodyshell: light and torsionally stiff
The intelligent combination of innovative and proven materials, as well as modern production technology, gives the new BMW 3 Series Convertibles a particularly light but at the same time very stable body - BMW's body development specialists have achieved the highest level of torsional stiffness ever in a BMW Convertible.

Unladen weight of the convertible is approximately 400 lbs. more than that of the BMW 3 Series Coupe. This extra weight results from the installation of additional support members in the floor and the electric motors and hydraulic elements required for the retractable hardtop.

New plastic inside front fenders weigh 50 percent less than conventional steel panels. And unlike conventional plastic, the new panels are made of a synthetic material and no longer have to be painted separately. Instead, they go through the regular painting process together with the complete body-in-white.

Deformation areas at the front of the car, together with other features, serve to help provide optimum occupant protection in a frontal collision. The bulkhead support is made of high-strength steel with longitudinal profile bars and reinforcements. In addition, the extra-strong luggage compartment floor and rear and side panels help minimize the consequences of a collision from behind.

In a side impact, forces acting on the car are diverted to the opposite side through the reinforced floor pan. The side sills are made of steel that varies in geometry for greater resistance to bending. Interacting with the doors, the seats and the instrument panel, the specially made components ensure maximum stability between the A-pillars.

The carefully designed arrangement and dimensions of the convertible's load-bearing structures, crash boxes and deformation zones help to keep impact energy away from the driver and passengers. Restraint and support systems are tailored to one another and controlled by one unit to ensure proper protection for each occupant. The front and side airbags, belt latch tensioners and belt force limiters are activated by the car's sensor-controlled safety electronics based on the type and severity of the impact.

The side airbags are integrated into the seat backrests and inflate, in the event of a significant side-impact collision, over a large area extending from the bottom of the backrest all the way to the upper edge of the headrest to provide upper body and head protection regardless of seating position.

Extra safety in the event of a rollover is provided by the windshield frame that serves as a safety bar. Rollover sensors that constantly monitor all vertical and horizontal movements of the car can activate rollbars positioned behind the rear headrests. The belt latch tensioners on the front seats as well as the side airbags are activated within fractions of a second.

The interior: ample space, extra freedom
The new BMW 3 Series Convertibles offer open-air driving pleasure for four. The front seats come with integrated belt systems and the center console extends all the way to the rear, splitting the rear compartment into two single seats. Thanks to their low seating position, these models offer generous head room.

Rear shoulder room is increased by 3.15 in. and elbow room grows 4.72 in. over the previous model. Access to the two rear seats is facilitated by the seat release lever fitted at the top of the seat backrest and the 2-speed fore-aft power adjustment switch.

Measuring 9.0 cu ft. with the hardtop up, luggage capacity is very generous. And even with the roof down, the remaining capacity provides ample space for additional necessities. By folding the rear seat backrest down, bulky objects can be loaded on the flat area behind the rear seats, without the risk of harming the upholstery.

The optional pass-through between the rear seat area and the luggage compartment makes the new 3 Series Convertible ideal for the driver and passenger traveling long distances and for many transport requirements in everyday use. The option includes a ski transport bag that is easily and conveniently set up in seconds and can be removed just as easily.

iDrive with Programmable Memory Keys
New BMW 3 Series Convertibles with the optional Navigation system feature BMW's iDrive system to control the Navigation, Climate, Entertainment and Communications functions. The new monitor automatically adjusts to ambient light conditions and is positioned in a perfect ergonomic arrangement in the instrument panel.

New to the 3 Series Convertibles are six Programmable Memory Keys on the dashboard that serve to simplify iDrive operation and control. Two additional new keys allow quick access to AM or FM radio stations and control the music source. The remaining six keys can be programmed for favorite items such as navigation destinations, radio stations or even telephone numbers. The keys are touch-sensitive; each respective function is clearly presented in the iDrive display as soon as the driver places his or her finger on the button.

Unique and premium equipment
Offering a wide range of safety and comfort features, the new BMW 3 Series Convertibles make every trip an experience in driving pleasure. To supplement the range of standard equipment, the newest BMW convertible is available with a wide choice of high-tech audio, navigation, Bluetooth and telematic functions.

New automatic air-conditioning features, for example, enhance the convertible's comfort. Automatic programs for ventilating the car selected through iDrive are supplemented by another mode: in addition to the three stages - "Gentle", "Medium" and "Intense" - the driver can activate a "Convertible" mode whenever the roof is open. This reduces the influence of the interior temperature sensor on the ventilation and control. Instead, temperature control and lower intensity are controlled as a function of the ambient temperature and sun glare.

The Convertible mode is available only with the roof open. As soon as the hardtop folds back over the passenger compartment, the automatic air-conditioning will return to the program last chosen when the car was closed, the Convertible mode then being automatically reactivated when the driver opens the roof again.

Automatic Air Recirculation (AAR) optimizes air distribution to provide a consistent temperature throughout the cabin. The system is automatically deactivated at speeds higher than 50 mph.

New sun-reflective leather for cooler seating
BMW is the first carmaker in the world to use sun-reflective technology to mitigate temperatures on leather seating, armrest surfaces, headrests, and gear shifter. The process uses modified color pigments imbedded in the leather during the production process to reflect the infrared radiation of the sun in wavelengths of more than 720 nanometers.

This new leather treatment is able to reduce surface temperatures on dark interior colors by up to 20 Celsius degrees (36 Fahrenheit degrees), and also offers advantages on light-colored upholstery, where the heating effect of sunshine is less severe, reducing the surface temperature by as much as 15 Celsius degrees (27 Fahrenheit degrees). All other qualities of the leather remained unchanged.

An accessory wind deflector developed especially for the new BMW 3 Series Convertibles reduces air swirl within the interior, even at high speeds. The new deflector is fastened firmly in the rear of the passenger compartment by supports in the side panels and can be easily swiveled into position.

Product Highlights

General
• Two all-new 3 Series Convertible models: 328i Convertible, 335i Convertible
• The fourth generation of 3 Series Convertibles
• Production began in Germany in December 2006
• Both models feature electro-hydraulically operated 3-piece hardtop, a first for BMW
• Roof opens in 22 seconds, closes in 23 seconds
• Both models powered by BMW's newest inline 6-cylinder engines: a 3.0-liter normally aspirated engine for the 328i Convertible; 335i Convertible with a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged gasoline engine, another first for a BMW Convertible

328i Convertible powertrain
• 3.0-liter, inline 6-cylinder engine producing 230 hp and 200 lb-ft of torque
• Increase of 46 hp vs. last year's 325Ci Convertible
• Designated by BMW as N52, engine weighs 357 lb., 22 lb. less than its predecessor
• Unique construction with a magnesium/aluminum engine block
• Single external drive belt makes engine about 1 in. shorter than its predecessor
• Dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 24 valves
• Steplessly variable intake- and exhaust-valve timing
• Higher fuel injection pressure than its predecessor
• All-new engine electronics
• Electric coolant pump
• Variable-volume oil pump
• Hollow valves
• Valvetronic technology replaces the throttle butterfly for greater fuel efficiency
• Choice of 6-speed manual transmission or optional STEPTRONIC 6-speed automatic transmission with Sport and Manual shift modes
• Acceleration (0-60 mph): 6.7 seconds w/ 6-speed manual transmission; 7.2 seconds w/ 6-speed STEPTRONIC automatic transmission
• Top speed electronically limited to 130 mph, 150 mph with optional Sport Package
• Significantly improved fuel economy:
o automatic transmission model – 20 city/30 highway vs. 18/26 of ’06 325Ci Convertible
o manual transmission model – 19 city/29 highway vs. 19/27 of ’06 325Ci Convertible

335i Convertible powertrain
• 3.0-liter, twin-turbocharged 6-cylinder producing 300 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque, increase of 75 hp vs. last year's 330Ci Convertible
• Two small turbochargers all but eliminate turbo lag
• Front turbocharger feeds cylinders 1-3; rear turbo delivers to cylinders 4-6
• Intercooler
• Aluminum engine structure with cast-iron cylinder sleeves required by significantly increased loads and cylinder pressures
• Dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 24 valves
• Steplessly variable intake- and exhaust-valve timing
• Highly efficient Piezo Direct Fuel Injection
• Bore is decreased while stroke is increased which allows for thicker cylinder walls
• Dual exhaust system; at low speeds a flap channels most gas through one side of the system, reducing low-frequency exhaust rumble
• Electric coolant pump
• Variable-volume oil pump
• Air-to-air external oil cooler
• Designated by BMW as the N54, the engine weighs 419 lb.
• Acceleration (0-60 mph): 5.5 seconds w/ 6-speed manual transmission; 5.7 seconds w/ 6-speed STEPTRONIC automatic transmission
• Improved fuel economy:
o automatic transmission model – 20 city/29 highway vs. 18/25 of ’06 330Ci Convertible
o manual transmission model – 19 city/28 highway vs. 19/28 of ’06 330Ci Convertible

Suspension technology, 328i Convertible and 335i Convertible
• Double-pivot McPherson strut-type aluminum front suspension
• Rack-and-pinion steering
• 5-link independent rear suspension
• Standard 17-inch alloy wheels with 225/45R17 runflat tires
• Tire Pressure Monitor System warns driver of 25 percent pressure drop

Other highlights
• Highest level of torsional stiffness ever in a BMW Convertible
• Rollover sensors monitor vehicle movements and can activate rollbars behind rear seat headrests
• Side airbags integrated into seat backrests
• Rear and side windows are 30 percent larger than those of predecessor
• Xenon Adaptive Headlights
• Interior Ambiance Lighting
• Retractable door storage pockets
• Dakota leather has sun-reflective technology used on the seats, armrest, headrests and gearshift knob (standard on 335i Convertible, optional on 328i Convertible)
• Near 50/50 weight distribution
• Plastic front fenders
• Enhanced Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) features including:
• Brake Drying
• Brake Stand By
• Brake Fade Compensation
• Start-off Assistant
• Windshield frame serves as rollover bar
• Knee airbags
• Logic7 Sound System (standard on 335i Convertible, optional on 328i Convertible)

Optional equipment
• Comfort Access with Comfort Loading and Comfort Opening Hardtop
• Fold-down rear seat with cargo bag and convenience hooks
• Active Cruise Control
• Active Steering
• HD radio 1
• iPod/USB adapter 1
• SIRIUS satellite radio
• 6-speed STEPTRONIC automatic transmission
• Automatic transmission paddle shifters (available as stand-alone option with Sport Package on 335i Convertible only)
• Navigation system now with iDrive, Voice Recognition, Real Time Traffic Information and 6 Programmable Memory Keys
• Wind deflector (available as an accessory at BMW centers)
• Heated front seats
• BMW Assist
• Three non-metallic and 11 metallic exterior colors
• Two leatherette (328i Convertible only) and five Dakota Leather upholstery colors
• Four interior trim colors

Optional Premium, Sport and Cold Weather Packages
328i Convertible
Premium Package
• Garage door opener
• Auto-dimming, power folding exterior and interior mirrors
• Compass in interior mirror
• Lumbar support
• Four-year subscription to BMW Assist and Bluetooth technology
• Dakota leather with Sun Reflective Technology

Sport Package
• 18-inch alloy wheels
• Performance tires
• Sport seats with adjustable side bolsters
• Sport suspension
• Increased top-speed limiter

Cold Weather Package
• Heated front seats
• Through-loading system with cargo bag
• Retractable headlight washers

335i Convertible
Premium Package
• Garage door opener
• Auto-dimming, power folding interior and exterior mirrors
• Compass in interior mirror
• Lumbar support
• Four-year subscription to BMW Assist and Bluetooth technology

Sport package
• 18-inch wheels
• Performance tires
• Sport seats with adjustable side bolsters
• Sport suspension
• Increased top-speed limiter

Cold Weather Package
• Heated front seats
• Through-loading system with cargo bag
• Retractable headlight washers

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