Following the success of the 1 Series convertible (more than 130,000 of them were sold), BMW has not tinkered with the recipe too much for its 2 Series replacement. It still has a fabric roof, there are still a range of petrol and diesel engines and it remains a little chubby with all models over 1,500kg.
And a picture of the one people will buy
In the UK the 220d will likely be the biggest seller. It will be launched alongside a 220i and 228i initially but expect a few more models to join the range eventually. The diesel has 190hp, 199lb ft and a 140mph top speed.
But of far more interest is that an M235i convertible will be sold. Mechanically identical to the coupe (right down to the optional M Performance limited-slip diff), it will hit 62mph in 5.2 seconds or five dead with the eight-speed auto. BMW has actually released an interior pic of the 235i with a stick in the middle just to prove it really is being offered. Most inappropriate drift device ever?
Anyway, probably best consider the 2 Series as a convertible than a hooligan's plaything. Torsional rigidity is up 20 per cent over the 1 Series, which is a good start. The roof raises or lowers in 20 seconds at up to 30mph, just in case you get caught at the traffic lights. With the roof up the boot is 335 litres and with down 280 litres is left. The roof comes with 'additional insulation and optimised acoustic comfort' and three colour choices are available: Black is standard, then Anthracite with silver effect and Brown with silver effect (really) are on the options list.
The 2 Series convertible will go on sale next month with first deliveries in February. The range will start at £29,180 for the 220i Sport. An M235i is £37,710, but don't forget to budget for that diff.