Wheels

By: ROBINSON/BEINTEMA AUTOFILES

BMW has announced details of the third M3 derivative, the new BMW M3 Convertible.  The fourth generation of BMW's open-topped M3 becomes the first M car to feature a Retractable Hard-Top.

The launch of the new M3 Convertible also represents another first with the introduction of BMW's new seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission (M DCT) as an option to the standard six-speed manual gearbox.  

Offering the highest levels of performance and driving dynamics with instantaneous gearshifts, the new BMW M3 Convertible offers a unique recipe for drivers who enjoy open-topped motoring accompanied by an eight-cylinder symphony.

The first generation of M3 Convertible, launched in 1988, delivered 200 hp from BMW's first 16-valve 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine.

Wind the clock forward 20 years to the introduction of today's E93-generation M3 Convertible that develops more than twice the power of the original, delivering 420 hp at 8,300 rpm from its 3,999cc V8-power unit.

The V8 engine powers the car from zero to 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds and on to an electronically limited top speed of 155mph.  

However, even with these supercar levels of performance, BMW's EfficientDynamics program ensures that fuel economy is not compromised with the car delivering 21.9 mpg on the European combined cycle.

In common with the Sequential Manual Gearbox on the M5 and M6 models, the new M DCT gearbox also features Drivelogic to allow the driver the ability to fine-tune the shift characteristics of the transmission.

The new BMW M3 Convertible is the first M3 to feature an electro-hydraulic Retractable Hard-Top as standard.  

It's also the first M3 to feature BMW's innovative Sun Reflective leather technology, allowing the driver the opportunity to leave the roof down for prolonged periods without the seat leather overheating.

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