IT is rare for a convertible to look as good with the roof up as it does with the roof down. BMW’s new 4 Series is one of the few with real road presence.

Lower, wider and longer than the outgoing 3 Series Convertible, it looks for all the world like a slick, sleek coupé.

But a gentle pull on a button between the front seats launches the three-piece retractable metal hard-top roof into the air and within 20 seconds it stows itself away in the boot, leaving an even slinkier vehicle.

The dimensions of the new car differ significantly from the outgoing BMW 3 Series Convertible and its shorter overhangs, long bonnet and set back passenger compartment deliver an altogether more athletic stance.

But enough of the looks, BMW has built its reputation as a maker of sharp handling, overtly sporting, luxurious driver’s cars and this vehicle does not disappoint.

The chassis of the new BMW 4 Series Convertible is based on that of the new BMW 4 Series Coupé and springs, damping and axle characteristics have all been tailored to ensure an engaging, dynamic yet comfortable driving experience, whether the roof is up or down.

The M Sport suspension, fitted on the 3.0-litre, straight six petrol engine-powered test car, can also be ordered separately for other models in the range. It consists of a firmer spring/damper set-up, stiffer anti-roll bars and tweaked suspension settings. BMW also offers the M Sport braking system, which has aluminium fixed callipers and generously sized discs.

Alternatively, there is the Adaptive M Sport Suspension option which adjusts the damper mapping to the road surface and driving situation. You can also use a ‘Drive Performance Control’ switch to vary the basic suspension settings between the more comfortable and the sportier.

Oxford Mail:

Smart and well specified

Inside, the controls are wrapped around the driver cockpit-style with a sports steering wheel, circular instruments in black panel look and the freestanding flat screen iDrive monitor. In the rear, the bench design has two individual seats, fitted with removable head restraints, with cup holders and a storage tray for small items between them.

The convertible also has plenty of space in the boot, even when the retractable hard-top is lowered. With the optional through-loading system a flat and level storage area can be used when the backrest of the rear bench seat is folded down.

With prices starting at about £37,000, there is no shortage of choice with the option of two petrol and one diesel engine and five trim levels – SE, Sport, Modern, Luxury and M Sport – giving plenty of scope for personalisation.

AT A GLANCE

  • Cost: £45,480
  • Insurance group: 39 (1-50)
  • Fuel consumption (Combined): 33.6mpg
  • Top speed: 155mph
  • Length: 463.8cm/182.6in
  • Width: 201.7cm/79.4in
  • Luggage capacity: 7.8 cu ft
  • Fuel tank capacity: 13.2 gallons/60 litres
  • CO2 emissions: 195g/km
  • Warranty: 3 years/unlimited mileage