At first glance you might think this is the BMW 4-series coupe
but at the push of a button, this car transforms into a convertible.
This then, is the new 4-series convertible.
Just like its predecessor, this car has a metal folding roof.
In theory, this is the perfect car for all seasons, a coupe in winter and a convertible in summer.
In practice though, the combination has some downsides
BMW now says that they've tackled those downsides with their newest attempt.
For example, where do you put the wind blocker when not in use?
Very simple: in a clever space behind the rear seats.
And when the roof is open, how do you get your luggage in and out?
They've solved that too: just push the button and the roof is lifted slightly.
In goes your luggage, push the button again to lower the roof and off you go.
At launch, you get to choose from three different engines.
It shares a lot of parts with the 4-series coupe, which means the engines are the same as the 3-series.
There's a 420d and two petrol units: the 428i and the 435i that we're driving now.
Even though it's a familiar engine, it never ceases to impress with its fluent delivery.
The turbocharged 3-litre inline 6 gives it a lot of oomph
and save for the rather poor fuel consumption it is the ideal all-rounder.
It's mated to the also familiar 8-speed automatic by ZF
it changes gear very fast and very fluent so what more could you want in a road car?
The transmission is so quick and more frugal, so why bother with a manual?
The engines then are all stronf contenders, but what about the ride and handling?
Fortunately, it's a bit leighter than its predecessor, about 20 kilograms.
Still, that doesn't exactly make it a lightweight.
They haven't made it overly firm though.
We have adaptive suspension which is actually comfortable in the Comfort-setting.
In Sports-mode it tightens up somewhat but will you really use it for sporty driving?
Probably not.
This car is better used for touring around and it does that admirably.
So, has BMW succeeded in building the perfect convertible?
Not completely, because it remains a tad on the heavy side thanks to its metal roof.
But it is a very good allrounder which combines comfort with sportiness and a good selection of engines.
Of course this 435i is great fun, but the entry-level 420d already has 184 hp
and that car has even become cheaper in The Netherlands.
It's available from € 57.700 in our country.
Plenty of money, but then it does buy you plenty of car.