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Viknesh Vijayenthiran

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2013 BMW 4-Series Convertible spy shots

HI-RES GALLERY: 2013 BMW 4-Series Convertible spy shots

Like clockwork, prototypes for the next-generation BMW 3-Series Convertible have been spotted just a day after prototypes for its hard-top sibling were sighted.

Based on the recently revealed 2012 BMW 3-Series, the new convertible, known internally as the ‘F33’, should be on sale in time for the summer of 2013, about the same time the new coupe arrives.

From these spy shots it’s clear the convertible will feature an automated folding hard-top, just like the one on the model it’s set to replace.

Sadly, however, it appears as though the current model’s strangely proportioned rear is here to stay for at least another generation.

What isn’t so clear is what name BMW will pick for its new 3-Series based coupe and convertible. While there’s a chance the cars will remain in the 3-Series family, there are suggestions they may adopt a new 4-Series moniker. Thus, the prototype you see here may be for a new 4-Series Convertible.

More importantly, it would also mean that the two-door versions of the M3 could arrive as M4s, which helps to explain why we’ve been seeing plenty of M3 Sedan prototypes but no coupes despite the two-door traditionally arriving first.

As for the engine lineup of the regular models, expect the same four- and six-cylinder engines from the sedan to filter across to the convertible. This means a 240 horsepower 2.0-liter turbo in the base model and a 300 horsepower 3.0-liter turbo in the range-topper. Transmission choices should include a standard six-speed manual and optional eight-speed automatic.

Other bodystles for the 3-Series BMW is planning include the U.S.-bound 2013 3-Series Sports Wagon and a new 3-Series Gran Turismo, both of which are due over the course of the coming 12 months.