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Summer is coming to a close, but there are a few more good weekends of top-down driving ahead. Too bad the all-new BMW 2 Series convertible will not be ready in time, as the German drop-top debuted yesterday for the 2015 model year.
The 2015 BMW 2 Series convertible is available in two flavors: the base 228i and the more potent M235i. The 228i features a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine, making 240 horsepower and 255 pound feet of torque. Power is sent through an eight-speed automatic transmission to the rear wheels or available xDrive all-wheel drive. BMW claims 0-60 mph times of 5.7 seconds for the RWD model and 5.6 seconds for the xDrive variant.
If that is just not enough oomph for you, the M235i convertible provides a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six, generating 320 hp and 330 lb.-ft. of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels through either an eight-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission. The zero-to-60 mph times are listed as 4.8 seconds with the automatic and five seconds flat for the manual. Top speed is electronically capped at 155 mph.
As for the top, it can be opened or closed in about 20 seconds, and at speeds up to 31 mph. BMW says the torsional rigidity of the vehicle has been strengthened to compensate for the removal of the closed roof.
The 2 Series convertible starts at $38,850, with destination fees, for the RWD 228i, putting it about $6,000 above the base coupe. Choose the 228i with xDrive all-wheel drive and you'll be looking at $40,650. The M235i starts at $48,650. That may seem steep for BMW's entry-level drop-top, but our past experience suggests that it could very well be worth the price of admission.
Earlier this year, we praised the BMW M235i for bringing back some of the purist excitement that was missing from the German automaker's lineup. We loved the brisk acceleration, satisfying exhaust note, and a smooth, progressive clutch. So if you are one of those drivers who thinks that any car is better with an open top, the 2 Series convertible is well worth a test drive.
No word yet on when the 2 Series convertible will hit American roads, but we expect to see it live at the 2014 LA Auto Show in November.
—George Kennedy
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