BMW 3 Series Convertible (2007 – 2012) Review

BMW 3 Series Convertible (2007 – 2012) At A Glance

4/5

+Smart looks, excellent engines, practical metal folding roof, decent luggage space can be augmented by lowering rear seat backrests.

-Optional extras can quickly add up.

Insurance Groups are between 30–42
On average it achieves 85% of the official MPG figure

 

 

Car seat chooser

Child seats that fit a BMW 3 Series Convertible (2007 – 2012)

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Real MPG average for a BMW 3 Series Convertible (2007 – 2012)

RealMPG

Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.

Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.

Average performance

85%

Real MPG

19–57 mpg

MPGs submitted

369

Diesel or petrol? If you're unsure whether to go for a petrol or diesel (or even an electric model if it's available), then you need our Petrol or Diesel? calculator. It does the maths on petrols, diesels and electric cars to show which is best suited to you.

Satisfaction Index

Satisfaction Index What is your car like to live with?

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Ask Honest John

What's the best 2000s BMW Convertible to buy?

"I'm looking to buy a BMW 3 Series convertible, looking from late 1990's to late 2000's, Looking to see what would be the best model, engine, (no diesels), and colour. Also what should I expect to pay for the right model? Also, what would be the best model to use everyday as I'm fed up with modern cars!"
We'd recommend an E93 generation BMW 3 Series Convertible (launched in 2007). It strikes a good balance between old and new, with plenty available on the used market and a clever electric hard-top roof (ideal for daily driving). A budget of around £6000 will get you a 330i, or closer to £9000 for a desirable 335i. You could also look at the older E46 but look out for rust - many are starting to look quite rough.
Answered by Andrew Brady

Can you recommend a convertible with space for three children?

"I have a very good condition 2010 Mazda MX-5 Mk3.5 1.8 petrol folding tin top. I would like to trade it in for a Renault Megane folding tin top petrol with say a £2,000- £3,000 payment. I love the MX-5 but I can't get more than one grandchild in it at a time and I have three grandchildren. I have previously enjoyed the ownership of a Megane convertible and would be happy to go back to it. Any comments please?"
I can't imagine a Renault Megane being anything but disappointing after your MX-5, even if it is more practical for carrying the grandkids. A Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet would be a better option or a bigger BMW 3 Series Convertible.
Answered by Andrew Brady

What soft roader could offer good ride comfort?

"I'm 81 and about to change from my BMW 3 Series convertible for something easier to enter and exit. It would be helpful to know if any "soft roader" matches the ride comfort of its maker's market niche-equivalent saloon. Overall ride comfort to include road noise, mechanical noise, seating, driving position and suspension compliance as determinants please. No longer bothered so much about performance and general handling sharpness."
The new Toyota C-HR is fabulous. Rides beautifully and handles brilliantly: http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/road-tests/toyota/toyota-c-hr-2016-road-test/
Answered by Honest John

Are there any all-weather tyres available for my BMW convertible?

"I have a 2012 BMW 330d convertible. The wheels are 255/30/19 at rear and 225/35/19 at front. If I move to 17-inch wheels ( 225/45/17 tyres), are there any all-weather tyres available or would I need to buy winter and summer tyres separately?"
Michelin does Cross Climates in 225/45 R 17 94 W XL and in my experience over 10,000 miles these are the best all weather tyres. However, they are not runflats, and they are directional so tyre swaps to even out wear have to be front to back the same side. You can run the car on non runflats, but you would then either need to rely on the AA that carries universal space saver spare wheels to get you to a tyre depot, or carry a space saver spare. Tyre repair kit glop fails to repair around 95% of punctures.
Answered by Honest John
More Questions

What does a BMW 3 Series Convertible (2007 – 2012) cost?