The BMW 4-Series is available in three different body styles, coupe, convertible and what BMW calls the "Gran Coupe." All three body styles have back seats, but the Gran Coupe actually has a pair of rear doors for easier access to the back seats. Despite the additional doors, the 4-Series Gran Coupe maintains the sloping swoopy roofline of the 4-Series coupe, giving it a good compromise between coupe styling and sedan practicality.
There are two engines available in the 4-Series. 428i models are powered by a 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine that makes 240 horsepower. 435i models are powered by a turbocharged 3.0L 6-cylinder engine producing 300 hp. Power is sent to the rear wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission, while a 6-speed manual is a no cost option on most models. All-wheel drive is an option and can be paired with any bodystyle and with any engine, though it does restrict transmission choice to automatic only. Optioned correctly, the BMW 428i is able to achieve up to 35 mpg on the highway.
There are four trim levels available with each body style: 428i, 428i and 435i. The 428i and 435i are available with xDrive all-wheel drive.
Trim levels are all similarly equipped, meaning that every 4-Series includes 17-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights, heated side mirrors with a power folding function, 8-way power adjustable front seats, a wood trimmed interior, a 9-speaker sound system, Bluetooth connectivity, a powered glass moonroof, automatic climate control, BMW's iDrive system with a 6.5" color LCD screen, dynamic cruise control and rain sensing wipers.
Since the various trims feature similar equipment levels, there are several options and option packages available on the 4-Series.
The Cold Weather Package offers heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel and retractable headlight washers.
A rearview camera and park distance control are included in a Driver Assistance Package, while a blind sport warning system, side and top view cameras and speed limit info are all added should buyers opt for the Driver Assistance Plus Package.
An M package adds 18" wheels, nicer interior detailing, a nicer steering wheel, a subtle body kit and sportier bucket seats, while a Dynamic Handling package adds sport suspension and a variable ratio steering rack.
The Premium Package includes leather seating surfaces as well as adjustable lumbar support, a 1-year subscription for Satellite radio and comfort access keyless entry.
A Technology Package includes a navigation system, a heads up display and BMW apps along with real time traffic updates.
Stylish Coupe Body, Great Handling, Sporty And Powerful Engines, Usable Back Seats, Variety Of Body Styles, Available All-wheel Drive
The BMW 4-Series replaces the 3-Series coupe in BMWs lineup. While 3-Series sedans will keep their names, 3-Series coupes have dropped the "3" in favor of a "4." All 4-Series are now coupes, while all 3-Series are now sedans, though the two cars continue to be closely related and built on the same platform.
The BMW 4-Series is a stylish coupe that offers most of the performance and styling of a sports car without compromising too much comfort or practicality. It features sleek, low styling and is available in a few different body styles, including as a convertible. Performance is brisk, but ride and comfort have been carefully balanced to provide a driving experience that is both entertaining and somewhat luxurious.
The BMW 4-Series competes with sedans and coupes such as the Audi A5, the Mercedes Benz C-Class and the Lexus IS. Prices start at just over $40,000.
