The 2022 BMW 4 Series Convertible will be a combination of the fresh BMW 4 Series, which debuted earlier this year, and a new convertible features.

The biggest change is that the 4 Series Convertible is going soft. The freshly-designed soft-top exterior brings with it a host of benefits including weight reduction (it's 40 percent lighter), improved cargo space (now 9.0 cubic feet, up 1.2 cubic feet from previous-gen model), and a lower center of gravity, which allows for improved handling.

The model comes standard with the controversial 4 Series grille. Photo courtesy of BMW, Fabian Kirchbauer Photography

Its convertible top uses a large panel bow and honeycomb construction to accommodate a flush-fitting glass rear window. Multiple layers of insulation and fabric make up the top, which is available in two colors: Moonlight black and standard black. Moonlight black adds a shimmer to the fabric.

Opening and closing the soft-top can be done while seated in the car or via remote key. It takes 18 seconds to perform open and closing functionality, which can be performed at up to 31 mph.

There is a pass-through rear seat to allow for additional storage options.

Like the rest of the 4 Series lineup, the convertible is longer and wider than the previous-generation model, complete with a longer wheelbase. The 4 Series Convertible is more aerodynamic than its predecessor.

It takes 18 seconds for the convertible's roof to go up or down. Photo courtesy of BMW, Fabian Kirchbauer Photography

It also has the 4 Series's unique face with new grille, standard LED headlights, and sleek blade-like turn signals. At the back are slim taillights and classic BMW minimalism. Eighteen-inch wheels are standard and 19-inchers are available.

The car is available with the M Sport package, which consists of a uniquely styled front bumper with larger air intake openings and a restyled rear bumper with Shadowline inlays. The rear diffuser panel, front air intake trim, side window moldings and lower exterior mirror housings are all finished in high-gloss black. Selecting the optional Shadowline Package delivers a high-gloss black finish to the kidney grille, exhaust tip trim, and black mirror caps.

The 2022 BMW 430i and 430i xDrive Convertibles are powered by a twin-turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that achieves 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The 430i gets from zero to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds and has a top speed of 155 or 130 mph depending on the wheel and tire combination selected.

BMW is making the 4 Series Convertible with a new soft top. Photo courtesy of BMW, Fabian Kirchbauer Photography

BMW is powering the M440i and M440i xDrive Convertible with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine hat produces 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. It has the same electronically limited top speed as the 430i but can get off the line and to 60 mph in just 5.0 seconds.

Both engines are paired with a stand eight-speed automatic transmission. A mild-hybrid 48-volt system is also standard.

An Adaptive M Suspension and Dynamic Handling package are available.

Power Sport seats and a leather steering wheel are standard. The M Sport Package and M440i Convertible models offer additional soft knee padding on the sides of the center console as well as an M Sport steering wheel and door sill plates with the M logo.

The interior of the model isn't revolutionary. Photo courtesy of BMW, Fabian Kirchbauer Photography

The four-seater has been engineered with convertible-specific noise reduction measures.

The starting MSRP is $53,100 for the new 430i Convertible, $55,100 for the 430i xDrive Convertible, $64,00 for the M440i Convertible and $66,000 for the M440i xDrive Convertible. Pricing does not include the added $995 destination charge.

The car takes most of the body traits of the traditional 4 Series for its design. Photo courtesy of BMW, Fabian Kirchbauer Photography

Rear-wheel drive versions of the model will go on sale in March and all-wheel drive 4 Series Convertibles will arrive at dealerships starting in July 2021.