BMW Launches 1-Series Cabriolet

The 1-Series Coupe hasn't even hit production lines and BMW has already

taken to the task of expanding its product range. The latest member of the 1-Series family is a new cabriolet, just introduced yesterday.

Unlike the 3-Series Cabriolet, the 1-Series sticks to a cloth top roof. The convertible top is available in two conventional colors – taupe and black – plus an exclusive “Moonlight Black”, which features metallic interwoven threads creating a shimmer and sparkle. There are many advantages of a cloth top roof that make even more sense on a compact car such as the 1-Series. It would have been impossible for BMW to fit large panels of metal and still maintain a profile and shape that looked like the regular 1-Series Coupe. Besides, the cloth roof is much lighter than a folding metal unit. Also, much like the 6-Series grand touring convertible, the 1-Series can lower its roof while on the move at speeds of up to 40 km/h (25 mph). This means that there's no getting embarrassed at the stop light, or having to pull over and stop if it suddenly

starts to rain. The roof raises and lowers in just 22 seconds.

Other clever features of the 1-Series Cabriolet revolve around making the convertible as practical and as comfortable as possible. Cars equipped with the optional Boston leather seating surfaces also get SunReflective technology, which uses a special infrared-reflective dye that keeps the seats cooler by about 20 degrees than conventional leather. Because it's a convertible, BMW has also given the Cabriolet version new seats with different seatbelt anchors, as well as side airbags and a rollover protection system.

The 1-Series is also a fairly practical vehicle, and in a way more practical than the 3-Series Cabriolet. For instance, its trunk can accommodate

two sets of golf clubs even with the top dropped, something that the 3-Series cannot achieve. In total, there are 8.48 cu-ft of luggage space, which can be expanded if the rear seats are folded and the integrated storage bag is used. The latter can carry items such as two sets of skis or two snowboards without dirtying the interior.

Like the 1-Series Coupe, the Cabriolet will be offered in two engine levels, both of which displace 3.0 liters in capacity. The 128i features a naturally aspirated engine that makes 230 horsepower, while the top of the line 135i features the remarkable twin-turbo six that makes 300 horsepower. Zero to 60 mph is dusted off in just 5.5 seconds, a figure identical to the 335i Coupe. Both versions can be had with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic with manual mode.

The new 1-Series Cabriolet will join the 1-Series Coupe on dealership forecourts this upcoming spring. Pricing has yet to be announced.