BMW 4 series convertible, a snowbird’s solution

In the eyes of most consumers, there is nothing better than a convertible.

Whether on a hot summer day, or just a cool fall afternoon, it works for most occasions. In my eyes, BMW’S M440i is the perfect snowbird car. Snowbird you say? Yes, a retiree who lives six months in the north and six months in the south. With this, the utilization of a convertible is now year-round reality.

BMW, known for upscale luxury in every market, has the eye on the prize with its redesigned 2021 M440i. As a 4 series, you get ultra-long leg room for frontrow riders, while rear seats are small and unutilized. For the canvas-like top, we notice quick retractable movement, while effortless and while either parked or at slower speeds.

In recent tests, we experienced the M3, BMW’S ultra sporty sedan with tons of power. On the M440i, we notice similar sporty features, but with a slightly slower zeroto-60 time, coming in at 5 seconds flat, which is quite admirable. With 382 horsepower, the M Twinturbo inline six-cylinder engine includes new 48V mild hybrid technology delivering some extra get up and go.

That new large kidney style front grille is present on the M440i and we were skeptical at first, but that overall BMW appearance still shows and with that, we are a fan. With the everpopular exterior growth of stylish items such as the grille, we notice large brakes, rotors and calipers as well. These items are glorious, exceptional and perfect for the M440i convertible.

Interior-wise, we recognize the ultra fashionable, Canberra beige interior with black accents and the popular Aluminum Tetragon interior fascia. Aligned with this, the standard BMW infotainment is easy to use. The touchscreen was crisp, the navigation was accurate and the overall interior experience was very good. The Executive Package was attached to our tester and for $3,700 it added a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, ambient lighting, Icon Adaptive LED headlights, heads-up display and Live Cockpit pro. Not only do we think BMW has it figured out in the cabin area but this also confirms their Ultimate Driving Experience mantra.

Overall, I lived in Florida for 20+ years and hands down love the Florida experience with a convertible in the stable. But when it comes to BMW and the Florida experience, that is the definition of riding in style and certainly a lifestyle you will enjoy.

M440i

MSRP: $64,000

As tested: $73,120

MPG: 23city, 31highway, 28.0 as tested

MARC GRASSO The BMW M440i is a stylish convertible with plenty of leg room up front and an ultra-fashionable interior.