What's new?

"Fourth generation of the 3-series convertible gets a folding hard-top for the first time, which means added comfort and security to go with the style.
What's it like to drive?

Even BMW admits that this isn't as much of a driver's car as normal for them. What it is is a beautifully engineered open cruiser, with a softer ride and a more laid-back attitude than the coupe.
The chassis is impressively rigid and the three-piece roof folds away in 22sec to create a genuinely pleasant open-air experience. Roof down there's the odd little tremor through the helm, and the extra 200kg it carries (compared with the coupe) is noticeable even with the storming twin-turbo six up front, but no other affordable four-seat convertible comes close to matching this for all-round ability and usability.


Should I buy one?

The coupe is a sharper, more rewarding car to drive, but anyone in the market for an open four-seater can't go past this. It's got the style AND the talent.
Allan Muir"




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First drive data

How much?

• Price when new £37,895
• Price as tested £37,895

How fast?

• 0-62 mph 5.8 sec
• Max speed 155 mph

How big?

• Weight 1600 kg

How thirsty?

• Combined 28.5 mpg
• CO2 emissions 228 g/km

Engine

• Layout 6 , 2979 cc
• Max power 302 bhp at 5800 rpm
• Max torque 295 lb ft at 1300 rpm

Love the coupe, hate the drop!

Don't hate it, but a car I'd never buy. I'm not a drop top kinda guy, fortunately.

If the pic under your name is more your style, then your alright with me!

Yes, I do prefer coupes, though I like sedans better for reasons of practicality. The R8 is a supercar though, so it's only right it comes with compact proportions a tin top (real tin) and two doors.