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BMW's 228i Convertible lounges in the Austin sun (pictures)

BMW's most affordable convertible gets some major revisions for 2015 and looks great inside and out.

Tim Stevens
Tim Stevens got his start writing professionally while still in school in the mid '90s, and since then has covered topics ranging from business process management to video game development to automotive technology.
Tim Stevens
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1 of 21 Tim Stevens/CNET

2015 BMW 228i Convertible

This is it: the 2015 BMW 228i Convertible.

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2 of 21 Tim Stevens/CNET

2015 BMW 228i Convertible

This is the most affordable BMW drop-top, replacing the 1 Series.

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2015 BMW 228i Convertible

It's a bit larger, but still has the same character -- despite its name going up by 100.

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2015 BMW 228i Convertible

The interior is typical BMW quality, including a 6.5-inch display, and for the first time, wireless, over-the-air map updates for the navigation system.

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2015 BMW 228i Convertible

With the top down, the rear profile is flush and taut.

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2015 BMW 228i Convertible

Rear seat room is a bit tight, but manageable.

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2015 BMW 228i Convertible

The car definitely looks its best with the top down.

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2015 BMW 228i Convertible

BMW's shark nose is in effect, though in a refined form.

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2015 BMW 228i Convertible

Trunk space is respectable for a convertible.

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2015 BMW 228i Convertible

A 240-horsepower, 2.0-liter turbocharged four provides the power.

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2015 BMW 228i Convertible

Our test car had the optional M Sport brake package, which adds blue calipers.

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2015 BMW 228i Convertible

Fuel economy with the automatic is EPA rated at 24 city, 34 highway and 27 combined.

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2015 BMW 228i Convertible

The top is fully powered and drops in 20 seconds. Here's a look at the procedure!

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2015 BMW 228i Convertible

Front comes up...

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2015 BMW 228i Convertible

Then the rear raises to match.

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2015 BMW 228i Convertible

Folding begins.

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2015 BMW 228i Convertible

More folding...

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2015 BMW 228i Convertible

Tonneau cover raises to make room.

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2015 BMW 228i Convertible

The whole thing starts to tuck into the trunk area.

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2015 BMW 228i Convertible

The top can be dropped while moving, even at speeds of up to 30 mph!

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2015 BMW 228i Convertible

Starting MSRP on the 228i Convertible is $38,850, but you'll probably be looking to spend a fair bit more with the many and varied options packages BMW offers.

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