The BMW M440i Convertible is positioned as a more dramatic alternative to the M340i, combining strong performance with the added appeal of open-top motoring. It brings a powerful six-cylinder engine, all-wheel drive configuration and adaptive suspension, but like most convertibles, it comes with some compromises.
Here are two reasons to consider it, and two areas where it falls short.
Reasons to buy
Strong, accessible performance
Smooth and strong power delivery from the B58 engine
The M440i is powered by BMW’s 3.0-litre, inline-six ‘B58’ turbo-petrol engine, producing 374hp and 500 Nm of Torque. What stands out is how accessible the performance is. Power delivery is smooth and progressive, with a strong pull across the rev range rather than a sudden surge. It’s wonderfully free-revving compared to most turbocharged engines.
The 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox works seamlessly in both relaxed and spirited driving, while the xDrive all-wheel-drive system helps maintain traction, especially under hard acceleration. This makes the M440i quick in a straight line but also easy to drive in everyday conditions.
BMW claims a 0-100kph time of 4.9sec – identical to the M340i sedan, even though the convertible is 165kg heavier. In our tests, it achieved 4.43sec.
Superb ride and handling balance
Adaptive dampers offer a great balance between comfort and sportiness
The M440i manages to balance ride comfort and handling better than some luxury sedans. Its adaptive sports suspension allows it to switch between a comfortable ride in daily use and a sharper setup when driven harder.
In Comfort mode, it absorbs bumps well and remains composed. The steering too becomes light and manageable while sacrificing none of its directness.
Dial it up to Sport Plus, however, and the transformation is remarkable; noticeably improved body control, with better responsiveness and grip. The cabriolet feels stable and predictable, making it both engaging and usable.
Reasons to skip
Interior lacks a sense of occasion
Feels too similar to a standard 3 Series
Despite its price and positioning, the M440i’s cabin does not feel particularly special. The layout and design are very similar to the 3 Series, which reduces the sense of flamboyance you might expect from a convertible. While build quality and materials are good, the design lacks distinctiveness, and the digital interfaces can feel overly complicated to use.
Roof housing affects boot usability
Boot space usable on paper but compromised in practice
The M440i offers a 385-litre boot, which is comparable to a sedan on paper. However, the space is compromised by the folding roof mechanism, which limits how luggage can be packed. Plus, there’s no spare tyre; just a puncture repair kit. This reduces overall practicality, especially for longer trips, and like many convertibles, it is not as versatile as a fixed-roof alternative.
Uday Singh
Saptarshi Mondal
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Rivan RS 
Dipan Sur
