The BMW 2 Series Convertible follows in the tire tracks of the pioneer and undisputed leader in its class – the BMW 1 Series Convertible.
The 1 Series Convertible entered the fray as the first open-top premium model in the sub-compact segment, went on to defend its position as clear market leader against subsequent pretenders to its throne, and achieved sales figures in excess of 130,000 units worldwide.
The exterior design of the BMW 2 Series Convertible displays the typical characteristics of an open-top four-seater from the Bavarian brand. The BMW 2 Series Convertible combines a low-slung silhouette and dynamically stretched lines with compact proportions and powerfully contoured surfaces. As with the 2 Series Coupe, its distinctive looks underline its standalone status in the brand’s model line-up and spotlight the dynamic potential, exhilarating open-top driving experience and premium characteristics which customers can expect. All in all, the eye-catching features which distinguish the BMW 2 Series Convertible from its rivals need no second introduction.
Opening the standard electrically-operated soft-top roof highlights the harmonious transition between the exterior and interior. The shoulderline and soft-top compartment create a level surface that wraps around the passenger compartment and evokes the distinctive “boat deck” character of BMW Convertibles. The rollover bars, which remain out of sight unless deployed as required, also contribute to an overall impression dominated by large level surfaces. The design of the interior is headlined by modern functionality, high-quality materials and the driver focus for which BMW is renowned. And exclusive accents in the center console help to give the BMW 2 Series Convertible a refined premium feel in keeping with the car’s character.
The front end of the BMW 2 Series Convertible, which adopts the brand’s familiar design language, exudes power and presence. As with the BMW 2 Series Coupe, front-end structuring comes courtesy of lines that converge dynamically on the large, slightly forward-slanting BMW kidney grille. The contours of the twin circular headlights narrow at their inner extremes and are replicated by the outlines of the outer air intakes. Air Curtains integrated into the front apron serve to channel the onrushing air precisely behind the front fenders, reducing turbulence in the wheel arches. The headlight units are separated from the BMW kidney grille by narrow strips on either side. An LED accent strip – or, if the Xenon lights are fitted, an LED accent light – cuts across the top of the headlights.
Together, the level shoulderline of the BMW 2 Series Convertible and the car’s telltale BMW proportions – the product of short overhangs, a long hood, long wheelbase and set-back passenger compartment – create an ideal environment in which to enjoy an exhilarating open-top driving experience. The positioning of the seats well back in the body gives the driver and passengers an up-close-and-personal experience of not just the onrushing wind and the sun’s rays but also the transfer of power to the rear wheels.
Its shoulderline rises slightly to the rear and merges into the virtually horizontal boot lid. And it links up with the prominent swage line running alongside it, through the door handles and into the rear, to create a dynamic wedge shape which captures the forward-surging urgency of the BMW 2 Series Convertible. Additional character lines leading from the doors and side skirts to the rear fenders divert the eye to the powerfully formed surfaces around the rear wheel arches, which duly focus attention on the car’s rear-wheel-drive set-up. The BMW 2 Series Convertible’s body is at its widest around the rear wheels. The rear lights, which extend well into the fenders, display the familiar BMW L-shape and have LED-powered light strips. The third brake light is integrated into the trunk lid and likewise illuminates using LED units.
The arrangement of displays and controls familiar from other BMW models gives the BMW 2 Series Convertible’s cockpit a familiar driver focus. The surface structure of the instrument panel, center console and door trim follows the overlapping principle known as “layering”. The bespoke design of the BMW 2 Series Convertible’s center console creates a refined premium feel on board. The controls for the audio system and climate control are set against high-gloss black surfaces, and the air vents have chrome surrounds. These elements are joined by an exclusively designed display for the climate control system with white readouts on a black background. An array of stowage areas and large storage compartments in the doors, meanwhile, contribute to the modern functionality of the interior.
