If we are to believe a fresh report – and that’s a big “if”, BMW has reached a decision to ditch the metal folding hardtop from the next-gen 4-Series Convertible. A new 4 is set to arrive in some 5 years’ time, with concepts and prototypes due around one year earlier.

If true, we can assume it will be like that of the current 2-Series Cabriolet, but bigger and flashier.

The different tops give the two (very similar) models different characters: the soft top is obviously the classier option, but it’s not as good as insulating, whereas the metal folding one eliminates outside noise and keeps temperature, but somehow just looks like a strange coupe.

The decision to go from a fabric top to a metal one for the 3-Series convertible (now 4-Series) was made in 2007, with the introduction of the E93 model.

Bimmertoday provides the information on the switch, but is unable to reach a conclusion as to why they’re changing course. It could be in the quest for a classier look, more cargo space with the roof folded and lower weight.

We will have to wait a bit for this one to be confirmed or not…

BMW 2-Series drop top pictured

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