The transition from the BMW 3-Series Convertible to the 4-Series moniker may have raised eyebrows among purists, but BMW aimed for a seamless evolution. The core concept remains familiar, and the styling tweaks are subtle enough that distinguishing it from its predecessor might require a second glance for the average observer. However, under the skin and in the details, the Bmw 435i Convertible presents a compelling package for those seeking open-top driving pleasure with a touch of luxury and performance.
The 4-Series Convertible has indeed grown slightly, offering more presence on the road. It stretches to 182.6 inches in length, a 0.7-inch increase, and widens to 71.9 inches, gaining 1.7 inches. The wheelbase has also been extended by 1.9 inches to 110.6 inches. Interestingly, it sits lower at 54.2 inches, a 0.3-inch reduction. BMW maintains the desired 48 percent front and 52 percent rear weight distribution, crucial for balanced handling.
BMW touted potential weight savings of “up to 44 lbs” for the open-top 4-Series compared to its predecessor. However, the BMW 435i Convertible, the model under scrutiny here, tips the scales at a substantial 4,095 lbs. This figure is nearly 100 lbs heavier than its 3-Series counterpart and a significant 400 lbs more than the fixed-roof 4-Series Coupe. The robust, albeit weighty, retractable hardtop mechanism is carried over from the 3-Series with minimal changes. While BMW considered a lighter fabric roof, similar to competitors like the Audi A5 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet, they ultimately opted for the familiar hardtop. A practical improvement is the ability to operate the roof at speeds up to 11 mph, preventing traffic obstructions if caught out by a traffic light.
Engine choices for the 4-Series Convertible include the turbocharged 240-horsepower N20 four-cylinder in the 428i and the more potent turbocharged 300-horsepower N55 inline-six in the BMW 435i. The naturally aspirated 3.0-liter straight-six of the previous 328i is no longer available, and neither is a manual transmission. The 4-Series Convertible is exclusively offered with an eight-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previous six-speed automatic.
The BMW 435i’s direct-injected, single-turbo N55 engine is praised for its responsiveness, reminiscent of the twin-turbocharged N54 used in earlier 335i models. It also boasts improved efficiency, with real-world gains of 10 percent or more reported in other BMW models equipped with this engine. However, the N55 engine’s sound profile doesn’t quite match the aural appeal of the N54, or the now-discontinued naturally aspirated BMW six-cylinder engines. The engine note has a sharper edge, arguably diminishing BMW’s unique auditory signature. Furthermore, the considerable weight of the 435i Convertible somewhat masks its outright speed. While the performance figures are respectable – 0 to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds and a top speed of 130 or 155 mph depending on tire choice – it doesn’t always feel as rapid as those numbers suggest, especially when compared to the lighter BMW 335i sedan. The abundance of low-end torque and the responsive eight-speed automatic make the BMW 435i Convertible adequately quick in urban environments and on highways, but it’s not ideally suited for spirited drives against sportier rivals or even well-driven older 3-Series models.
The BMW 435i Convertible truly excels as a comfortable boulevard cruiser, particularly when equipped with the Luxury package, as was the test vehicle. As expected with a convertible, there’s a noticeable increase in body flex compared to the fixed-roof 435i Coupe. The steering offers reasonable precision, but it lacks the beautifully weighted and communicative feel of BMW’s older hydraulic steering systems. Therefore, a relaxed pace is best to fully appreciate the open-top experience, comfortable seats, and well-appointed interior. The ash grain wood trim with metal inlays and the functional instrumentation were particularly appreciated. The front seats are firm yet comfortable, and the rear seats provide sufficient space for shorter journeys.
However, the BMW 435i Convertible is not without its quirks. Certain BMW-specific ergonomic choices, such as the somewhat cumbersome gear selector and the requirement to acknowledge input errors on the iDrive controller with a physical press, can be frustrating. Accidentally selecting the wrong gear during a maneuver, only to be greeted by an error message obstructing the rearview camera display, is a prime example of this annoyance. Similarly, the abrupt engagement of “Park” when reversing with an open door or unbuckled seatbelt can be jarring. While the overall material quality is generally high, cost-cutting measures are evident in areas like the hard plastic trim below the climate controls.
The BMW 435i Convertible starts at $54,900, though it’s unlikely many buyers will opt for the base trim. Luxury and Sport Packages add $1,400, while the M Sport package is priced at $2,600. Competition in the convertible segment is strong, with rivals like the Audi A5 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet each offering distinct characteristics. However, for those prioritizing a folding hardtop, the BMW 4-Series stands out as the most appealing choice compared to older models like the Infiniti Q60 and Lexus IS Convertible. With its refined aesthetics and improved efficiency, the BMW 435i Convertible is poised to satisfy its target audience of discerning convertible enthusiasts.
