BMW 2 Series Convertible review - Interior, design and technology

Compared with the gawky-looking 1 Series, the BMW 2 Series is a much more elegant machine – and this Convertible carries over the coupe's long, low lines. As a result, the BMW looks great with its roof up or down.

Some modern convertibles use folding hard-tops, but BMW has stuck with a fabric roof for the 2 Series Convertible, which owners can spec in different colours which add a sense of style alongside the gloss-black body accents on some models.

At the front, the long bonnet stretches forward with BMW’s famous kidney grille taking pride of place in the heavily styled bumper. The 2 Series’ striking headlights also help give the car an aggressive scowl. It was updated in 2017 with new lights, a redesigned bumper and a slightly wider grille. The external changes are minimal, but they give the 2 a fresh look.

BMW’s familiar L-shaped tail-lights make an appearance at the rear, but they eat into the boot aperture, reducing practicality. Some models get dark chrome twin tailpipes as standard to add to the racier look, while larger wheels are an optional add-on. Overall, it’s a very attractive design that looks chic and graceful with a focused edge.

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Sat-nav, stereo and infotainment

The 2 Series’ cockpit will be familiar to most BMW owners, borrowing its dash design and layout from the Coupé and 1 Series hatchback. That’s no bad thing, as with its iDrive controller and upgraded 8.8-inch sat-nav screen the infotainment system is still one of the slickest around.

All cars were facelifted in 2017 to bring the car up-to-date with other models in the BMW range. The 2 Series inherited much of the tech first found on the 5 Series saloon, and is all the better for it. Digital dials, Apple CarPlay and a touchscreen display bring the car into the 21st century – giving the interior a much more modern feel. However, compared to the Audi A3’s minimalist, high-quality cabin, the BMW is showing its age.