Best Car Reviews - 2017 BMW M240i Convertible

Introduction

The 2017 BMW M240i Convertible stands as a noteworthy entry in BMW's lineup, appealing primarily to driving enthusiasts who crave both performance and luxury. Released as part of BMW's esteemed 2 Series family, this convertible specifically targets those who seek the joy of open-top driving without sacrificing power and agility. The M240i Convertible distinguishes itself with its potent engine, elegant design, and a generous array of features, making it a stellar choice in the subcompact luxury segment.

Design and Exterior Features

The exterior design of the 2017 BMW M240i Convertible merges classic styling with modern flair. It boasts a sleek, aerodynamic shape that is both eye-catching and efficient. With its compact size, the vehicle is agile, making it ideal for urban environments. Key design elements include BMW's signature kidney grille, aggressive front fascia, and sporty rear end. Standout exterior features include:

Adaptive LED Headlights for enhanced visibility.
18-inch alloy wheels that provide a sporty stance.
Automatic soft-top roof that retracts swiftly for open-air driving.
M Sport package enhancements, including unique bumpers and side skirts.

Interior and Comfort

Inside, the M240i Convertible offers a well-appointed cabin that combines functionality with luxury. The layout is driver-focused, ensuring that all controls are within easy reach. The use of high-quality materials is evident throughout, from the leather upholstery to the soft-touch dashboard trim. Comfort features are designed to enhance every drive:

Heated sport seats with adjustable lumbar support.
Dual-zone climate control for personalized comfort.
High-quality Harman Kardon sound system for an immersive audio experience.
Intuitive iDrive infotainment system with a rotary controller.

Performance and Handling

At the heart of the M240i Convertible is a robust 3.0-liter, 6-cylinder engine with SIDI (Spark Ignition Direct Injection), delivering impressive power. This engine generates 335 horsepower, providing exhilarating acceleration and a 0 to 100 km/h time of just 4.5 seconds. The rear-wheel-drive configuration complements the car's dynamic handling characteristics, offering precise control when cornering.

Driving performance:

Acceleration is smooth and powerful, ideal for both city driving and highway cruising.
The suspension expertly balances comfort and agility, adapting well to various road conditions.
Fuel consumption stands at approximately 11.9 L/100 km, which is competitive for its class.
The automatic S8 transmission ensures seamless gear shifts for a spirited driving experience.

Technology and Connectivity

BMW equips the M240i Convertible with an impressive array of technology features aimed at enhancing the driving experience. The infotainment system is intuitive and loaded with connectivity options:

8.8-inch display with navigation.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support.
Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity for hands-free calls and streaming music.
USB ports for device charging and data transfer.
Advanced driver assistance systems, including lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control.

Safety Features

Safety does not take a backseat in the 2017 BMW M240i Convertible. Equipped with a suite of standard and advanced safety features, this vehicle ensures peace of mind:

Adaptive brake lights to alert following vehicles.
Multiple airbags, including side and knee airbags.
Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and traction control.
Electronic stability control to maintain vehicle handling.
Though lacking official crash test ratings, BMW's reputation for safety engineering speaks volumes.

Pricing and Variants

The base price of the 2017 BMW M240i Convertible is around $50,000 USD, which is competitive in the luxury subcompact car category. Compared to its rivals, such as the Audi TT and Mercedes-Benz SLC, the M240i offers a compelling mix of performance, features, and prestige.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Outstanding performance with rapid acceleration.
Elegant design that turns heads.
Luxurious interior with premium materials.
Advanced technology and user-friendly infotainment system.
Excellent handling and driving dynamics.

Cons

Limited rear-seat space, which can be cramped for adults.
Higher fuel consumption compared to some competitors.
Expensive maintenance relative to non-luxury alternatives.
Some rivals offer more cutting-edge safety features.
Limited cargo space, typical of convertibles.

Maintenance and Common Issues

Annual maintenance costs for the M240i Convertible can be higher due to its performance-oriented nature and premium components. Common issues reported include:

Oil leaks from the engine.
Occasional coolant system failures.
Turbocharger-related concerns in high-mileage examples.
Electrical gremlins, particularly with infotainment.
Minor suspension issues over time.

Rating

Overall rating: 8.5/10
Design: 9/10
Comfort: 8/10
Performance: 9/10
Technology: 8/10
Safety: 8/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"The acceleration is fantastic! It always feels like there's power in reserve."
"I love the sleek design and how quickly the roof comes down for a smooth open-air experience."
"The interior is plush, but the rear seats are better suited for bags than people."
"It's a bit thirsty for fuel, but the driving pleasure is worth it."
"Maintenance can be pricey, but I haven't encountered any major issues so far."

Best cars in this category

2017 Audi TT
2017 Mercedes-Benz SLC
2017 Porsche 718 Boxster
2017 Jaguar F-Type Convertible
2017 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider

Summary

The 2017 BMW M240i Convertible is best suited for those who prize performance and luxury in a compact, stylish package. Its robust engine and agile handling make every drive an exhilarating experience, especially with the top down. While it carries some typical drawbacks of convertibles, like limited rear space and higher maintenance costs, the overall package is tough to beat for driving enthusiasts. For anyone in search of a capable and luxurious open-top car, the M240i Convertible is a compelling option that excels in its class.