2014 BMW 4 Series Convertible

The second of BMW’s new 4 Series two-doors is a droptop. The sleek 2014 4 Series Convertible retains the folding hard top of its predecessor, but features many upgrades, including more standard features, which is unusual for BMW. The 4 Series Convertible, expected to arrive in showrooms early next year, replaces the 3 Series Convertible. It follows the German automaker’s new naming convention that uses even numbers for all BMWs with two doors and odd numbers for those with four doors.

The 2014 4 Series Convertible will come in two versions: the 428i, which has a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, and the 435i, which has a turbocharged six-cylinder engine. Both will have an eight-speed automatic as their only transmission. The lack of a manual transmission will upset purists who prefer it, especially on sporty cars like this BMW.

Rear-wheel drive is standard on both models. All-wheel drive is optional on the 428i. One big improvement is that the retractable hardtop, which folds into three sections and stows in the trunk, has more insulation than before to keep the cabin quieter. For example, it reduces wind noise by up to 2 decibels.

The 428i puts out 240 horsepower and goes from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 6.2 seconds. The 435i has 300 horsepower and sprints from 0 to 60 miles per hour in about 5.5 seconds. There are also Sport and Sport+ modes (the latter depending on trim level) to improve throttle and transmission response.

The 2014 4 Series Convertible goes on sale in the first quarter with a starting price of $49,675 for the 428i and $55,825 for the 435i. Both prices include a $925 destination charge.

A Carliners Report.