2011 BMW 3-Series Convertible

2011 BMW 3 Series Convertible Wallpaper

BMW says the engine, which now uses the automaker’s throttle-free Valvetronic system, is “more responsive, more fuel efficient and cleaner running” than the existing 3.0-liter turbo. We’ll have to drive the car to tell the difference. Neither BMW nor the EPA has published gas mileage figures yet, but we’d expect a nominal increase over the 335i’s current mileage — 16/25 mpg city/highway — to 17/26 mpg, depending on transmission and rear- or all-wheel drive.

2011 BMW 3 Series Convertible Seats Interior

The 328i’s 3.0-liter naturally aspirated engine carries over; it makes 230 hp and 200 pounds-feet of torque. Both engines work through a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic, and either coupe can be equipped with BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive.

2011 BMW 3 Series Convertible Rear Angle View

Changes for both cars include updated LED headlight rings, new taillights and side mirrors, an updated grille and a reshaped hood. The front bumpers adopt a single, wider air dam with strakes similar to the redesigned Z4’s. Inside, left-right paddle shifters for the automatic transmission replace the previous push-pull design, and it appears the automatic gets BMW’s new electronic shifter. Here’s hoping it feels more natural than the less-than-ergonomic gearshifts in BMW’s other cars that went that route.

2011 BMW 3 Series Convertible Luxury Car

2011 BMW 3 Series Convertible

The 2011 3 Series coupe and convertible hit dealerships this spring. There’s no word on whether the sedan will receive similar changes; it last saw a number of updates for the 2009 model year. BMW hasn’t announced any pricing yet, but we’d expect the coupe and convertible to start near their current prices of $36,200 and $45,000, respectively.