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Overview
BMW’s two-door 4-series differentiates itself from the 3-series sedan with a controversial new design and a more elegant roofline. Mechanically, the two cars are almost identical. They are powered by the same two powertrains: either a 255-hp turbocharged four-cylinder or a 382-hp turbocharged inline-six. While passenger space is obviously arranged differently inside the two-door 4-series, occupants are treated to the same basic interior design, layout, and features as in the four-door—and as fans of BMW’s latest interior arrangement we’re okay with that. BMW says the new 4-series will start rolling out this fall, when it will take on other premium two-door models such as the Audi A5, the Lexus RC, and the Mercedes-Benz C-class. Fans of the fastback 4-series Gran Coupe sedan or the high-performance M4 (both reviewed separately) will be happy to know that those models will continue to be offered.
What’s New for 2021?
Everything. The 4-series finally catches up to the 3-series for 2021 with a clean-sheet redesign and bolder exterior styling. The 2021 4-series is scheduled to go on sale in October.
Starting at: $46,595
430i coupe – $46,595
430i convertible – $54,095
M440i xDrive coupe – $59,495
M440i convertible – $66,995
We haven’t driven the new 4-series yet, but in our experience with the four-door 3-series models, the turbocharged inline-six in the M440i model will be the enthusiast’s choice, but the nearly $13,000 price premium may turn off some buyers. That bump in price comes with a load of additional equipment though, in case you need more reason to justify the cost. The M440i comes standard with all-wheel drive, for one thing, and it’s also outfitted with unique M Sport 18-inch wheels with run-flat tires, the M Sport suspension and rear differential, a rear spoiler, a faux-leather wrapped dashboard, and more. A convertible model is also offered but switching to the soft-top body style adds almost $8000 to the base price.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The same two overachieving engines offered in the 3-series will be available in the 4-series. Models designated 430i will be powered by a 255-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder. An all-wheel drive example of the 330i sedan managed a brisk 5.2-second zero-to-60-mph time at our test track; we expect similarly peppy performance from the 430i. The M440i is powered by a silky-smooth turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six that gains an assist from a 48-volt hybrid system to make 382-hp—good for a 3.8-second zero-to-60-mph time in the M340i. Our short drive of prototype 4-series models in Munich revealed a very sporty driving experience, courtesy of retuned suspension, a more-aggressive steering calibration, a wider rear track, and a lower center of gravity. We’re looking forward to track-testing the 4-series after it’s officially unveiled to see how it stacks up against its main rivals, the Audi A5 and S5, the Mercedes C-class coupe, and the Infiniti Q60.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The EPA hasn’t released fuel economy estimates for the 2021 4-series lineup yet, but it should offer similar ratings as the 3-series. We expect highway fuel economy somewhere in the mid-30-mpg range for the 430i and high 20s for the six-cylinder M440i.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Shoppers may not notice much difference between the cabins of the 4-series and the 3-series unless they’re in the back seat. The dashboard layout, interior materials, and primary controls look to be identical to the four-door 3-series’, although we noticed that the lower roofline in the 4-series gives it a less spacious feel. Trunk space is less generous here than in the 3-series, especially in the convertible model, which will likely give up some of its cargo room to provide stowage space for its power-folding fabric roof.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The 2021 4-series comes with the same standard 8.8-inch and optional 10.3-inch infotainment screens as the 3-series sedan. Both displays run the latest version of BMW’s iDrive 7 infotainment software, which pairs an intuitive interface with a console-mounted clickwheel controller for easy use while driving; those who prefer to interact with the display directly can do since both are touchscreens. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and in-dash navigation will all be standard while a 12.3-inch digital gauge display, onboard Wi-Fi, and a wireless smartphone charging pad will all be optional extras.
Read More https://www.caranddriver.com/bmw/4-series
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