BMW Going Soft on Convertibles?

BMW AG is eschewing steel hardtops for its next-generation convertibles, reports Bimmer Today. Citing unnamed sources, the German enthusiast publication says the carmaker will switch back to traditional soft tops for the redesigned 4 Series convertible and the upcoming Z4 replacement.

In addition to reducing weight, a soft top also could allow for a larger trunk. The current 4 Series convertible, which features a folding three-piece metal roof, weighs 500 lbs more than the 428i coupe and has 8 cu ft less cargo space when the hardtop is stowed in the trunk, other media reports point out.

Another potential benefit: A soft top can be raised or lowered at faster vehicle speeds. The current 4 Series' three-piece hardtop opens and closes in 20 seconds at vehicle speeds as high as 11 mph. By comparison, Mercedes-Benz' soft top can be raised and lowered while the vehicle is moving twice as fast.

The successor to the Z4, which is being co-developed with Toyota, is due to bow in 2017. The next-generation 4 Series isn't expected until about 2021.