BMW 1-Series Convertible on sale in April

The entry-level BMW 120i Convertible’s 2-litre 170bhp engine accelerates from 0-62mph (100kph) in 6.8 seconds and can manage 42.8mpg

The BMW 1-Series Convertible and M3 saloon will go on sale in April 2008.

BMW’s sexy 1-Series convertible will feature an electronically-operated folding cloth roof that can open in a claimed 22 seconds at up to speeds of 25mph.

Inside, the drop-top gets a climate control system that gains an extra ‘convertible’ setting, designed for open-roof conditions. Sensors inside the cabin relay temperature information and sunlight levels to establish the level of ventilation.

The BMW 1-Series Convertible will be available with the choice of two engines. The entry-level BMW 120i Convertible’s 2-litre 170bhp engine accelerates from 0-62mph (100kph) in 6.8 seconds and can manage 42.8mpg.

The BMW 120i Convertible will be available in two trims; ES and SE with prices of £25,205 and £25,205. 

A more powerful BMW 125i Convertible accelerates from 0-62mph in 6.8 seconds but still manages a respectable 34.9mpg and will cost £26,195.

Following its coupe brother, the BMW M3 saloon will feature the same 4-litre V8 engine producing 420bhp.

This V8 power accelerates the BMW M3 saloon from 0-62mph (100kph) in 4.9 seconds and on to an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph, while managing an average of 22.8mpg.

On sale in April, the BMW M3 saloon will cost £49,210 - £1,400 less than the Coupe.

All four BMWs will be in forecourts from Spring 2008 and sees the number of models offered in the UK increase to 18 body styles and 231 variants.