BMW announced several modifications to the 2012 BMW 1 Series Convertible that accentuate efficiency and premium quality. And for the 2012 model year, two versions are available with inline-6 power: the 128i and the 135i.

Powered by a 3.0-liter, 230 horsepower inline-6 engine that generates 200 lb-ft of torque, the 128i Convertible features BMW’s Valvetronic throttle-less intake technology and aluminum/magnesium construction—core elements of BMW’s EfficientDynamics.

The 2012 BMW 135i features BMW’s newest, 3.0-liter inline-6 engine. Equipped with a single, twin-scroll turbocharger and BMW’s revolutionary Valvetronic throttle-less intake technology, the engine produces 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. Refered to internally as the “N55”, the engine reaches peak torque at 1,200 rpm and maintains peak torque all the way to 5,000 rpm. With High Precision direct gasoline injectors, optimum performance and fuel efficiency are achieved with even faster engine response across the entire engine speed range. For the BMW 135i Convertible, acceleration from 0-60 mph is accomplished with the standard 6-speed manual transmission in 5.4 seconds.

The 135i can be equipped with BMW’s 7-speed Double Clutch Transmission (DCT), as featured on the BMW Z4 Roadster. Equipped with DCT, the 135i Convertible will accomplish the 0-60 mph sprint in a scorching 5.3 seconds. A 6-speed Steptronic automatic remains o ptional on the 128i. So equipped, the 128i Convertible runs 0-60 mph in 7.0 seconds, or 6.4 seconds with the standard 6-speed manual transmission.

Consistency between form and function is crucial to engineers at BMW who seek perfect balance of various aerodynamic factors in the wind tunnel. As a result, the new Air Curtain is BMW’s latest aerodynamic innovation. Introduced first on the BMW 1 Series M Coupe, the Air Curtain will now be a standard feature on the BMW 128i Convertible. The Air Curtain improves air flow around the front wheel arches with the benefit of significantly reduced turbulence. The BMW 128i Convertible can also be equipped with special Aero Wheels to further enhance the performance of the Air Curtain system.

The 2012 BMW 1 Series Convertible will go on sale this Spring.