Drop-top Luxury
The floor of the L.A. Auto Show is the ultimate place to see the hottest new cars, and this year is no exception. Two luxury convertibles, the Audi A3 Cabriolet and the BMW 4 Series convertible, are making their debuts at the show. For drivers who want to take advantage of our ideal Southern California weather, these new drop-tops will provide even more choices in an ever-growing convertible market.
Arriving in showrooms early next year, the 2014 BMW 4 Series convertible is set to replace the 3 Series convertible. The 4 Series is larger in width, track and wheelbase than its predecessor, though the classic BMW front end — including the double-kidney grille, twin circular headlights and the large air intakes — reveals its heritage. The 4 Series features a three-piece retractable hardtop with a unique headliner that incorporates advanced soundproofing and includes lights, providing optimum coziness and quiet when the top is up.
The new 4 Series convertible will come in two trim levels. The 428i, starting at $48,750, is powered by a 241-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the 435i, which starts at $54,900, will be equipped with a 302-horsepower turbocharged six-cylinder. Both engines will have an eight-speed automatic transmission with shift paddles. Standard features on all models include power front seats with driver memory, split folding rear seat, auto headlights with rain sensor, and a climate-control system that automatically adjusts depending on the outdoor temperature and the car’s speed.
Elsewhere at the show, Audi took the wraps off its redesigned A3 Cabriolet, which is substantially larger in overall length, wheelbase and width than the model it replaces. The bump up in size means more space for its four occupants as well as a bigger trunk that now measures 10.1 cubic feet — pretty generous for a convertible. It features a soft cloth top that opens or closes in 18 seconds at speeds up to 31 mph and has a glass rear window. When open, the top folds into three layers, so it takes up very little space in the trunk.
Audi hasn’t yet confirmed the engine choices for the U.S. market, but they are likely to include a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces around 200 horsepower and a 300-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder available in an S version. The Audi A3 Cabriolet will go on sale late summer 2014. Pricing has not yet been announced.
—Tara Baukus Mello, Brand Publishing Writer
