2007 BMW 3 Series Convertible

Open-Air Excitement

The all-new BMW 3 Series Convertible delights sun-worshippers, with a power retractable hardtop.

The two versions of the redesigned BMW 3 Series Convertible are called the BMW 328i Convertible and the BMW 335i Convertible. The top 335i model features BMW’s first turbocharged engine in two decades. Rear-drive remains standard, but this is also the first generation of two-door BMWs in nearly two decades to offer all-wheel drive as an option, except on the convertible.

The new BMW 3 Series Convertible joins the totally redesigned 3 Series Sedan and Wagon models that debuted for the 2006 model year.

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The BMW 3 Series includes sedans, coupes and station wagons. A new high-performance M3 version will debut around the 2008 model year.

Like many of its luxury-brand competitors, the redesigned BMW 3 Series Convertible gets a retractable hardtop, which combines the open-air allure of a convertible with protection from the elements, noise insulation and sleek styling of a coupe. Made of lightweight steel, the three-piece roof opens in 22 seconds at the touch of a button and folds completely into the rear compartment. If the vehicle is equipped with the keyless-start Comfort Access option, the top can be lowered remotely via the key fob.

The 328i has one of the most peppy and efficient six-cylinder engines in the industry. The 335i packs a new twin-turbocharged six-cylinder engine, which produces faster 0-60 mph times.

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The standard transmission is now a six-speed manual. A six-speed “Steptronic” automatic transmission that can be taken through the gears like a manual is optional, as are steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

The BMW 3 Series Convertible is a bit larger than the model it replaces, with a stiffer chassis, improved suspension and braking systems, and a 50/50 front-to-rear weight ratio, which is considered optimum for performance and handling. BMW says the redesigned 3 Series Convertible has the highest degree of torsional stiffness of any of the automaker’s convertibles. This means that despite the lack of a fixed roof, the BMW 3 Series Convertible resists twisting and flexing. That contributes to improved ride and handling qualities with reduced noise, vibration and harshness. Rollover sensors in the BMW 3 Series Convertible monitor vehicle movements and can deploy pop-up rollbars located behind the rear-seat headrests if the system determines the car is about to flip over. A reinforced windshield frame likewise acts as a supplemental rollbar.

BMW 3 Series Convertible Vehicle Summary

The front and rear suspension setup enables crisp, neutral handling for fun, spirited driving and a compliant ride. Active Steering is optional. The system offers more immediate steering response, but purists may favor the standard setup for its simplicity and unfiltered feedback.

The stability control system in the BMW 3 Series Convertible has been improved. It features traction control like before and an expanded range of brake functions that have been incorporated on all BMW models. Brake Standby reacts when the driver suddenly lifts his or her foot off the accelerator, anticipating hard braking, and snugs the brake pads against the rotors. Start-Off Assistant automatically engages the brakes on an incline to prevent the car from rolling back when the driver lifts off the brake pedal to depress the accelerator.

Unlike the coupe, sedan and wagon versions, the 3 Series Convertible is not offered with AWD.

Exterior styling is identical to the coupe, except for the roof. Two-door 3 Series models include a sleeker profile and slightly different styling than the four-door variants.

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Adaptive high-intensity Xenon headlamps are standard on the BMW 3 Series Convertible. They pivot with the steering wheel to help illuminate the road around curves at night. The interior is simple and tasteful. Instruments and switches are well positioned. The seats are among the most supportive and comfortable in the industry.

The rear seat accommodates two passengers, though larger occupants will feel cramped.

BMW covers all factory-recommended maintenance for four years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first.