BMW M3 convertible

What is it? The M3 convertible is a performance-tuned hardtop and is powered by a V8 engine that revs to 8,000 rpm and produces 414 hp and 295 pound-feet of torque. The convertible shares this engine with the coupe and sedan versions of the M3. The convertible will cost about $66,000, some $11,000 more than the M3 sedan and $8,000 more than the coupe.

What's new or notable? The M3 convertible will be available with a double-clutch transmission designed specifically for its V8. BMW claims it will provide smoother shifts and help the convertible extract the most performance possible from the V8.

CR's take: With the folding hardtop retracted, the trunk space appears to be scant (and that's putting it politely), and a small center pass through to the rear seat won't help much. Consumers considering the purchase any hardtop convertible should be aware of this common sacrifice.