2014 BMW 4 Series Convertible

A drop-top joins the BMW 4 Series lineup, the recently launched two-door model that replaces the outgoing 3 Series coupe and convertible.

The 2014 BMW 4 Series convertible shares the same body and design with the 4 Series coupe, sans the roof and the hardtop's B-pillar.

The convertible's three-piece retractable hardtop is lined with a noise-absorbing headliner, which BMW says is quieter than the old 3 Series convertible and provides added insulation. According to BMW, the power-folding top can completely fold up or down in 20 seconds and operate at speeds of up to 11 miles per hour.

Like the 4 Series coupe, the 4 Series convertible is built on the same architecture as the 3 Series sedan and rides on the same wheelbase, but both 4 Series body styles are slightly wider and nearly two inches lower.

Two engine choices are the same found in the 4 Series coupe: The BMW 428i convertible uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 that makes 240 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque (just a tad less on both counts than the coupe). A 428i xDrive all-wheel-drive model will also be available.

A more powerful BMW 435i convertible uses a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 good for 300 hp and 300 lb.-ft. of torque, and will be available only with rear-wheel-drive.

All convertible models come with BMW's 8-speed automatic transmission; no manual option is available.

Options and packages are similar to those found on the 4 Series coupe and include a bevvy of interior materials, tech features and electronic driver's aids. Specifically for the convertible, a neck warmer feature is available with the Cold Weather Package. As with the 4 Series coupe and 3 Series sedan, the 4 Series convertible will be available in trim lines with distinctive exterior and interior features. They include the Sport, Luxury M Sport lines.

BMW said the 4 Series convertible will be available in the first quarter of 2014 and will start at $49,675 for the 428i and $55,825 for the 435i.