2018 BMW 430i Convertible Review: The Ultimate Leasing Machine
Is This Another of BMW’s Ultimate Driving Machines?
In a word, no.
The turbocharged four-cylinder engine is pretty good, picking up right off idle, and offering usable power right up until the 7,000 RPM red line. Though, power does soften over 6,000 RPM, like all modern turbo-fours. Likewise, the 8-speed automatic transmission, sourced for ZF, is very good. In fact, it’s actually the best part of the car. BMW has calibrated the transmission to be both lighting fast, on both up- and downshifts, but to also be very smooth. Going from “D,” to “DS” (Drive Sport), and then full manual mode showcases the flexibility and capability of this transmission. It’s the perfect automatic gearbox, and one of the best in the business, regardless of price point.
Things begin to fall apart once the 430i convertible is put on a winding road. Sadly, this used to be a strong suit for BMW models of all sorts. Hell, even the BMW X3 SUV can hustle. At low speeds that optional $700 Adaptive M suspension, and $2,300 M-Sport Package seem to keep this convertible composed, and rather flat in the corners. However, once the pace picks up, this BMW pushes it’s nose wide, entering a sort of terminal understeer, that is broken only by occasional fits of snap oversteer on corner exit. This has become a BMW hallmark trait as of late with anything not plastered in BMW M badges.
It is, However, a Nice Place to Spend Time
Sure, even at $63,310 it feels decontented. Sure, there are many, many cars with reasonable price tags that offer way more bang for the buck. However, this 430i does have an intangible air of quality in the cabin. It’s something that one can’t put a finger on, until they actually put a finger on one in the showrooms. Everything you touch, or interact with in the car feels premium. Even BMW’s interior plastics, which are just plain black plastic pieces, somehow feel more special than what you would find in other makes.
When I wasn’t thrashing the car like a mad man, the 430i offered a rather quiet, and sedate drive. An enthusiast’s choice this is not. However, it does seem to be a great fit for what can be considered the new age BMW driver. It looks rather nice, rides rather nicely, is fuel efficient, has a nice interior, is quick enough on the one day a year the average consumer will ever press the throttle more than 30%, and, crucially, it has the right badge for the job.
This is not The Ultimate Driving Machine, nor should it be called one. Instead, it should be called the The Ultimate Leasing Machine, because that is the buyer for this 63 grand BMW. It’s someone who isn’t a buyer at all. This car will not need lease specials or deals. People will flock to the showrooms, drop a $2,000 signing check and be content paying $800 per month for 36 months, for the badge. So, it would seem that has BMW nailed it this car.
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