The new BMW 4 Series shocked brand enthusiasts, to say the least, with its styling. Ever since the first spy images were released online, opinions have been divided with some admiring the new grille and others criticising the design choice. This, however, is not the first time the German automaker has stunned the public with a completely new design, with the E65 and more recent G12, 7 Series models springing to mind.
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Now in its second generation, the new 4 Series has only been revealed in coupé and convertible body styles as well as in M4 guise. The previous and first-generation 4 Series further incorporated a 4-door, Gran Coupe model although this variant remains to be seen with the new model. For this article, we will be focussing on the new and used coupé model.
Styling
Although the new model retains a similar roofline and overall theme, the new 4 Series measures 4 768 mm in length, slightly longer than the model it replaces which stretch 4 638 mm. The new model is also slightly wider at 2 081 mm in comparison to the 1 825 mm on the F32 variant. However, if we are going to compare sizes, we should also take a look at the front grille.
The new model offers sharper and longer shapes when looking at the rear of the vehicle. The sides incorporate distinctive curves running along the shoulder line and lower down on the door. It is when we arrive at the front, where the biggest change happened. Flanked by long, sharp headlights, sits the kidney grille which no longer extends horizontally but rather vertically.
This new design cue not only distinguishes the new 4 Series from the rest of the range but also BMW's recent history. The brand says it harks back to 1939 BMW 328 Mille Miglia Touring Coupe.
Equipment
As standard on the new 4 Series, customers can expect the latest BMW Operating System 7 to be accessible via the 8.8-inch infotainment touchscreen. The driver further benefits from a 10.3-inch screen where the traditional instrument cluster would have featured. Customers can optionally increase the sizes to 12.3-inches behind the steering wheel and 10.3-inch centrally.
The system incorporates navigation but drivers can utilise their favourite apps via the Apple CarPlay and now Android Auto which features as standard equipment. The new 4 Series also allows occupants to pair their smart devices via the built-in wireless WiFi connection as an alternative to the wired USB port. Services and functions on can now be accessed via the infotainment touchscreen, iDrive Controller, multifunction steering wheel, voice control or the optional BMW gesture control.
Powertrain
Under the bonnet of the 420 variants feature a 2.0-litre, twin-scroll turbocharged, 4-cylinder petrol motor which produces 135 kW and 300 Nm of torque. Also available is a 2.0-litre, twin-scroll turbocharged, 4-cylinder diesel which sees an increase to 140 kW and 400 Nm of torque. The flagship 440i model sees a 3.0-litre, twin-scroll turbocharged, inline 6-cylinder petrol motor fitted. This combination results in 275 kW and 500 Nm of torque.
The entire 4 Series range are serviced by BMW's 8-speed Sport Steptronic transmission and results in the 420i achieving 100 km/h in 7.5s, the 420d in 7.2s and the 440i in just 4.5s. Further bolstering the powertrain on the 440i xDrive model is a mild-hybrid system which utilises a 48V starter-generator and second battery to improve efficiency and add an instant 8 kW under spirited acceleration.
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