Monday, it unveiled its 323Ci convertible, a sleek, four-seat coupe, at the North American International Auto Show. The convertible is the open-air companion to the 323Ci coupe, which is part of BMW's 3 series. The 3 series includes two sedans, two coupes and a four-door station wagon. Aside from its sporty presentation, the 3 series convertible is family-friendly, said Richard Gaul, BMW's senior vice president of corporate communications. Features such as rollover protection, a spacious trunk and roomier rear seats will make the drop top a rather attractive buy for families.
Convertible drivers tend to be either young or old.
Gaul said the convertible's spacious rear seats are a feature most other drop tops can't top. Most four-seater convertibles of this size have sacrificed the size of the rear seat. The latest vehicle is part of BMW's strategy to make vehicles for every stage of a driver's life. Last year it unveiled its X5 sport-activity vehicle, which is intended to court baby boomers with young families that may otherwise buy minivans. 2001 Knight Ridder Inc. and may not be republished without permission.