BMW 3-Series Convertible (07 on) - Review

Review by David Ross on 26 March 2007

Last Updated: 25 January 2010

The 3-Series Convertible is undoubtedly one of the most desirable models in the BMW line-up. It combines effortless elegance with everyday practicality and an exciting drive - in fact it is one of the finest drop-tops on sale today. The three-piece electric metal roof folds gracefully in 25 seconds and is a very compact design. That means with the roof up, it looks like a coupe, and it retains the smooth shape associated with previous 3-Series Cabriolets with the roof down - there's no 'bump' that has marred many other coupe-cabriolets. Further innovations such as heat-reflective leather upholstery and easy access to the luggage area show great attention to detail and add to the premium feel. Punchy engines and a high spec (all have at least SE trim) are the icing on the cake.

4.5 out of 5

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4.5 out of 5

Summary

New price range:

£33,705 - £46,770

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Used price range:

£10,420 - £34,760

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See 2 new models for sale from £30,061

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Beautiful folding metal roof, great choice of efficient engines, superbly refined

Small bootspace, much more expensive than the similar 3-Series Coupe

Driving & Performance

Performance

4.5 out of 5
"The basic petrol engine is the 320i - the only four-cylinder petrol in the line-up. It's smooth and..."
Handling

4.5 out of 5
"The 3-Series Convertible ticks all the right boxes when it comes to driving pleasure, despite..."

Comfort

Comfort

4.5 out of 5
"There’s enough legroom in the back for two adults to sit comfortably, plus adequate headroom whether..."
Practicality

3.5 out of 5
"BMW’s first ever folding hard top is very impressive. Not only does it look good whether it's up or..."
Equipment

4.5 out of 5
"There are only two trim levels - SE and M Sport. Standard specification includes 17-inch alloy..."
Behind the wheel

4.5 out of 5
"All-round visibility with the roof up is very good for a convertible - the forward view is clear and..."

Costs

Running costs

3.5 out of 5
"The prestige of the BMW badge and quality of the product means that the 3-Series Convertible usually..."
Green credentials

3.5 out of 5
"The 3-Series performs reasonably on the eco front and by far the best model is the 320d - this emits..."

Safety & Reliability

Safety

4.5 out of 5
"The 3-Series saloon has a five-star Euro NCAP rating and, although the Convertible hasn’t been..."
Reliability

4.5 out of 5
"BMW is renowned for its quality, and this generation of 3-Series is no exception. It’s so far..."

Buying & Selling

Buying new

3.5 out of 5
"You'll pay upwards of £4,000 over the Coupe for the benefit of the folding roof. Four out of five..."
Buying used

5 out of 5
"There's a simple trim line up, but be aware that although SE may sound like the top spec, it is in..."
Selling

5 out of 5
"Moving the car on shouldn't be much of a problem. Dealers - both official BMW outlets and..."