BMW Announces the 2015 2 Series Convertible

2015 BMW 2 Series Convertible (Credit: © BMW)

When the 2 Series debuted in 2014 as the replacement for the 1 Series Coupe, many folks assumed a 2 Series convertible was on its way. Now all of the assumptions are confirmed, as BMW has officially announced its 2015 2 Series Convertible lineup.

The 2 Series  Convertible will make its in-the-metal debut at the 2014 Paris Auto Show and will hit U.S. dealers in early 2015. Furthermore, the small drop-top model will hit U.S. shores in two guises: the base 228i and the performance-oriented M235i model.

The base 228i Convertible will carry a 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo engine that produces 240 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque. This power travels through a standard eight-speed auto transmission with launch control. Additionally, BMW will offer this base model with rear-wheel drive or optional xDrive all-wheel drive. In its base setup, the 228i hits 60 mph in 5.7 seconds, while the xDrive model does the sprint in just 5.6 seconds.

In addition to the 228i is the M235i Convertible, and it comes with a 3.0-liter M Performance TwinPower Turbo engine that cranks out 320 ponies and 330 pound-feet of torque. The M235i Convertible comes with the same eight-speed auto transmission, but it also offers a more hands-on six-speed manual transmission too. In addition to the extra power, the M235i comes with some extra aero goodies and exclusive chassis components for a livelier experience all around.

2015 BMW 2 Series Convertible (Credit: © BMW)

With the added power in tow, the M235i completes the 0-to-60 dance in just 4.8 seconds with the eight-speed transmission and five seconds with the manual gearbox. Furthermore, the M235i tops out at an electronically limited 155 mph.

While performance is all well and good, convertible buyers also want to know all about the soft top of the 2 Series Convertible. Thanks to its multi-layer design, the cabin remains fairly quiet in this compact convertible, while its electronic bits can open or close the top in just 20 seconds. What’s more, the driver can operate the top at speeds of up to 30 mph, eliminating the need to come to a complete stop in a downpour.

All three versions of the 2 Series Convertible — 228i, 228i xDrive and M235i — will be available in early 2015. Prices are fairly reasonable, as the 228i will base at $38,850, the 228i xDrive will start at $40,650, and the M235i will start at $48,650.