BMW's next-generation Convertible will go on sale April – but it will not come with the option of diesel power. Instead, the restyled and sleeker-looking 330Ci will boast a six-speed manual gearbox as standard and will also offer a sequential manual gearbox as an option.

Likely to cost between £1,200 and £1,300 and also to be offered on the 325Ci, SMG is an automated manual change system allowing split-second gear shifts via the traditional centre stick or paddles on the steering wheel. Both the coupe and convertible will be first to share BMW's major innovation - adaptive headlights.

Using computers to interpret information from sensors monitoring speed, steering action and even body roll, this system turns the inner pair of headlights to help the driver see around approaching bends.