Next German Convertibles

The next two years will bring lots of new Convertible from Audi, BMW and Mercedes. Audi will launch three new models: A3, A4 and A5 Convertible, BMW will unveil a Convertible version for the 1-Series and three new Convertibles coming from Mercedes.

The first one, the A3 Convertible will be launched in 2009. An Audi spokesman confirmed this model: "we are thinking about producing such a model" and declined to give any details about it.

Audi A3 Convertible

The A3 Convertible will be offered with a range of gas and diesel engines. The gas engines will have a maximum output of between 150 hp, 200 hp and 265 hp for theS3.

The A4 and A5 Convertible will be launched in 2008/2009. For these two new models there is also a hybrid system in the work. The A5 Convertible will be a strong competitor for the BMW 3-Series Coupe-Convertible.

BMW 1-Series Convertible

BMW will also launch a Convertible version for the 1-Series in 2008. There will be two models running with gas engines: the 118i and 120i and two with diesel engines: the 118d and 120d. An M3 Convertible is also expected in 2008. As you already know, this model will be powered by a V8 engine with an output of 420hp.

Mercedes is also working on three new models: a facelift for the SL-Class, a CLK Convertible and a SLR Roadster.

Mercedes SL-Class Convertible

Mercedes will offer different looks for the SL class until 2012, when Mercedes wants to offer a final basic form. The maximum output will start from 272 hp for the SL350 and will raise up to 388 hp for the SL500.

The CLK will first be offered in 2008 in a coupe version and a Convertible version will follow in 2009. The most powerful model will be the CLK 63 AMG, with 500 hp.

A Roadster version for the SLR is also in the work and confirmed by Mercedes. It will have a maximum power of 650 hp.