As the boundaries between interior and exterior are particularly fluid on a convertible, it is essential that the two aspects of the car are designed in harmony. The BMW 1 Series Convertible maximizes the open-air driving experience. The close relationship between interior and exterior is symbolized by the shoulder line, which encircles the passenger compartment and is visible inside and out, running seamlessly from the tops of the doors across the back of the car. This design feature contributes to the feeling of freedom, as do the car’s high-quality materials and a host of equipment options.

Feel the wind at the touch of a button: the electronic softtop opens and closes in just 22 seconds, even while the car is moving at speeds of up to 40 km/h. When closed, the reinforced, integrated rear window helps to better block out noise. With a weight of 1,260 g/sqm, the strong roof material ensures improved noise insulation and offers the same comparable level of winter comfort as a permanent roof. The softtop is also available in anthracite with silver effect lending it a unique sparkling finish.

Efficiency means generating as much power from as little fuel as possible. This is achieved through a combination of BMW’s peerless engines and a range of innovations that together significantly reduce fuel consumption and emissions, while actually improving performance. No other carmaker offers a comparable package of measures, leaving BMW vehicles such as the BMW 1 Series Convertible streets ahead of the competition.

The BMW Twin Turbo is the first twin-turbo direct-injection engine in this market segment. It features two small turbochargers working in parallel, each one serving three of the engine’s six cylinders. This means that the extra injection pressure is there almost instantaneously, for a smooth power curve. The combination of this technology with High Precision Injection means that the BMW 135i Convertible enjoys a unique competitive advantage: the fuel economy of an advanced 6-cylinder engine with the power delivery of a high-performance V8.

For greater safety and driving pleasure Dynamic Stability Control constantly monitors the behaviour of the chassis and wheels. When DSC detects traction loss it reduces power and applies precise brake pressure to individual wheels. Skidding is prevented before it occurs as, within milliseconds, the BMW is stabilised. For extra traction and more surefooted progress on difficult surfaces Dynamic Traction Control can also be activated. DSC and DTC are standard in the BMW 1 Series with extended functions in the 6 cylinder models including Hill Start Assist and Brake Drying. Hill Start Assist holds the car for two seconds enabling the driver to smoothly drive away on an incline. Brake-drying wipes the brake discs clean in wet weather.

For its comprehensive Active and Passive Safety Technology, the BMW 1 Series has achieved Europe’s highest safety rating, the 5 star NCAP crash-test rating. Active Safety attributes include Dynamic Stability Control and an array of electronic sensors. Passive Safety features include crash-energy management chassis and safety-cell design, front and rear side airbags, and forward-rotating driving pedals in severe frontal collisions.