JUST when you thought all BMWs were getting bigger and heavier, the German luxury carmaker whips out its latest lifestyle model: the compact 1-Series Cabriolet.

The 120i Cabriolet is the first premium drop-top in the compact segment, and unlike the bigger BMW 3-Series Cabrio with its folding hard-top, the 1-Series has an electrically operated cloth roof.

Anyone who has forgotten the acoustics in a rag-top will immediately rediscover the allure of the patter of rain as it falls on the canvas. At the same time, they will be reminded of the higher decibel level when in a tunnel or alongside a diesel vehicle.

But these intrusions can be considered somewhat charming when in the cosy cabin of a 120i Cabrio. Here, the dashboard and instruments will be familiar to BMW fans (incidentally, this is the only one of the four 1-Series variants available here that has a climate-control air-con).

Although it may look snug, the driver and his front seat occupant actually have ample space. But the two passengers in the back will need to be smaller than average. This is because despite being 4.36 metres in length with a relatively long 2,660 mm wheelbase, this 2-plus-2's interior packaging favours those in front. And thanks to BMW's excellent ergonomics, the driver will be able to find the perfect driving position whatever his or her size. The drive itself is open to debate.

As with all new-generation Beemers, the 120i Cabrio has a heavier steering feel. So even with its shorter wheelbase and more 'chuckable' proportions, it isn't as nimble a performer as the 1-Series Coupe. This is because this compact convertible is no lightweight; at 1.5 tonnes (no doubt due to body- strengthening measures), it is more than 100 kg heavier than a 320i sedan, which has the same 156 hp engine.

That means the sprint from zero-to-100 kmh is slightly slower than the entry-level sedan model. The ride quality is also average. Drive the 120i Cab fast over uneven road surfaces and the car will respond by bouncing around a bit. The body will also exhibit some flex.

The handling may lack the fluidity commonly associated with the brand, but in terms of marketing, the product itself is pure BMW. As a whole package, the 120i Cab is simply brilliant. No other competitor has that same blend of affordability (relative at $150,000, though), practicality and image that this baby Beemer boasts.

The car already has an edge over other small convertibles with its premium badge and the front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout alone. Throw in a classy soft top with the classic three-box styling and it becomes an instant winner.

The operation of the roof, by the way, takes just 22 seconds and it can be opened or closed when the car is travelling at up to 50 kmh.

The 120i Cab is also practical in other ways. Like all recent models, it is offered with an auxiliary input below the centre armrest for the audio system, as well as two other attachments in the glovebox - one for a USB device and another for an iPod, which can be controlled using some of the audio buttons.

You could say this is a BMW with both style and substance.

BMW 120i Cabriolet

Engine: 1,995cc inline-4
Gearbox: 6-speed automatic transmission
Max power: 156 hp @ 6,400 rpm
Max torque: 200 Nm @ 3,600 rpm
0-100 kmh: 10.0 secs
Top speed: 212 kmh
Price: $158,800 (with COE)
Distributor: Performance Motors, Tel 6319-0100

This article was first published in The Business Times on Jun 7, 2008.