(Image Source: AutoExpress)

BMW's new 3-Series convertible is the twinkle of AutoExpress' editorial eye today as the British auto mag publishes its take on BMW's latest droptop that's a hardtop.

As they're right to point out, BMW is only the second car manufacturer to enter the mid-priced 2+2 convertible range with a fully retractable steel roof, the other is the new Volvo C70. AutoExpress saw the hardtop feature as a distinct advantage over the soft-topped Mercedes-Benz CLK cabriolet, though purists may beg to differ (Gunnar certainly does).

Another intriguing innovation included in the Blue Roundel's latest convertible is the introduction of "heat reflective seats". Do tell. Anyone who's roasted their bottoms on sun scorched hide in a convertible would find this to be a blessing, if effective.

Read AutoExpress' review.