BMW 3-Series Cabrio. ?59 400

The convertible based on the BMW 3rd Series went on sale quite promptly. There hasn't been a queue for it yet, but buyer interest is noticeable. In our age of global warming, many drivers dream of getting rid of the boring roof over their heads at least in summer.

You see all sorts of things in dense city traffic. Various extravagant cars have become so familiar that no one pays attention to them anymore. But open-top cars are a different matter: they invariably catch the eyes of passersby. The new BMW 3rd Series convertible is no exception.

2008 BMW 3-Series Cabrio
© Photo: Sergey Krestov, 5 Koleso

The first open "threes" debuted two decades ago, and now it's the turn of the fourth generation. The main difference of the new model is a rigid folding roof, whereas predecessors had only fabric tops.

The introduction of a hard top created two difficulties. The first is an increase in mass. To at least partially compensate for the extra weight, the Bavarians used lightweight steel sheets. However, they couldn't completely avoid the gain: the car became 200 kg heavier, and this did not go unnoticed. The suspension, which previously seemed elastic and composed, now struggles with large bumps. Nevertheless, the overall comfort level remains quite high.

The second task facing the engineers was to make the design compact, since they needed to accommodate both the roof itself and its transformation mechanism. The solution was found in dividing the roof into three sections. When folded, it hides in the trunk, which for a convertible has a decent volume of 350 liters. But that's with the top up. When the roof is folded, the space shrinks to 210 liters. The numbers are still respectable, but using the trunk has become less convenient: instead of the usual compartment, you get a narrow and deep niche.

The roof folding process itself looks mesmerizing. Attention is drawn to the many auxiliary mechanisms that ensure the inner lining is laid correctly. When the roof is up, the car turns into a full-fledged coupe with neat ceiling trim.

2008 BMW 3-Series Cabrio
© Photo: Sergey Krestov, 5 Koleso

The roof hides in the trunk compartment in 22 seconds, and takes a second longer to raise back. However, there is a nuance: this operation can only be performed while stationary. As soon as the car moves even a little, the mechanism will stop in an intermediate position.

In terms of handling, the convertible is in no way inferior to its hardtop sibling, whether with the top open or closed. The three-liter turbo engine paired with a six-speed automatic delivers excellent dynamics. And the exhaust system, tuned for a sporty note, tempts you to press the gas pedal harder. The interior is styled like racing cockpits, but without any discomfort. Even tall passengers can sit comfortably in the back. But the engineers thought that wasn't enough: the leather upholstery was treated with SunReflective technology, so it no longer heats up as much under the sun.

With the advent of the hardtop, the BMW convertible has become an all-season car. However, due to its considerable price, mass demand is not expected.

2008 BMW 3-Series Cabrio
© Photo: Sergey Krestov, 5 Koleso

Driving
Even despite the increased weight, the convertible retains excellent handling.

Interior
The light interior, of course, gets dirty easily. But the white color perfectly emphasizes the car's elegance.

Comfort
Ergonomics are thought out to the smallest detail. There's enough space even for those sitting in the back.

Safety
In addition to the standard set of systems, the convertible received a reinforced body and pop-up roll bars that deploy in a rollover.

Price
The new BMW convertible is beyond praise. But you have to pay for the brand.

Pros and cons
+ Striking looks, excellent dynamics, comfortable interior.
- The roof can only be folded when fully stopped, inconvenient trunk.

Our opinion

Five points