BMW 3-Series Convertible (07 on) - Review

Review by David Ross on
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

Other BMW reviews

3.5 out of 5

Running costs

The prestige of the BMW badge and quality of the product means that the 3-Series Convertible usually has some of the best residuals around. This should be further enhanced with the metal folding roof and sophisticated equipment (such as heat-reflective seats) on this latest car. Insurance and parts and servicing are expensive, but in line with other cars of this kind while the frugal diesels mean running one needn't be an expensive experience.

* based on most recent data

Estimated fuel cost for 10,000 miles per year

Unleaded

£1,497 - £2,116 *

Diesel

£1,165 - £1,602 *

The estimated fuel cost figure is a guide to how much this model will cost to fuel each year, so you can compare between cars. It's calculated by using the model's average mpg (calculated from both town centre and motorway driving) and the average fuel price. It's based on the following cost-per-litre: petrol 135p and diesel 141p. Prices are updated daily.

Summary Running Costs

Servicing period

Indicated by on-board computer

Warranty

Three years'/unlimited mileage warranty, 12 years' anti corrosion warranty and six years' paint warranty.

Road tax (12 months)

£120.00 - £460.00

Vehicle excise duty (VED) varies according to the CO2 emissions and the fuel type of the vehicle. For cars registered after March 1st 2001 VED or road tax is based on the car's CO2 emissions. For cars registered before March 1st 2001 it is based on engine size.

Full running costs data

3.5 out of 5

Green credentials

  • A
  • B
  • C
  • D
  • E
    135
  • F
  • G
  • H
  • I
  • J
  • K
  • L
    226
  • M

CO2 emission figure (g/km)

Fuel economy rating

The arrows indicate the best and worst CO2 bands for this model.

Emissions summary

The 3-Series performs reasonably on the eco front and by far the best model is the 320d - this emits 140g/km of CO2 and is capable of 53mpg. Even the top of the range 335i isn't too bad - averaging 30mpg and emitting 226g/km of CO2, which is impressive considering it's superb performance.

Find the exact engine and CO2