BMW has announced an entirely new model variant that will be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show next week.

The 320Cd Convertible was released after research revealed that more than a third of all BMW UK sales are diesel, while a sixth of all BMW sales are ragtops.

The model, to go on sale early in 2005 when prices will also be announced, is powered by a 2.0-litre engine that develops 150bhp at 4,000rpm and 243lb-ft or torque at 2,000rpm, much of which is available from 1,500rpm.