The BMW 4 Series is a stylish, exciting performance coupe that is the sporty option for those that feel that the 4-door 3 Series is just too pedestrian, just too mundane.
With the same underpinnings and engine options as its 3 Series counterpart, you just know that it's there to perform a task - and looks good doing it. Sleek 2-door coupe styling and attractive proportions make it a head-turner, all for the same money as the sedan option.
If you're not sold on it yet, here are our 5 top reasons why we think the BMW 4 Series is ahead of its peers.
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1. FR layout
The BMW 4 Series employs a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive design layout. This means that the engine sits at the front and sends the power to the rear wheels. This is a traditional way of arranging a powertrain and for good reason - it's the most sporty option. The BMW 4 Series also has an electronic limited-slip differential (on the M440i) which improves the turn-in, mid-corner response and allows for predictable acceleration out of a corner. It's perfect for spirited driving.
2. It's dynamic and comfortable
The BMW 4 Series manages to be an exciting car through the corners and a boulevard cruiser at the same time. We've already explained why it's so good at the dynamic, thrilling stuff but that doesn't mean that it compromises on comfort. With the drive settings in the comfort mode, the BMW 4 Series manages to glide along in an elegant, svelte fashion that belies its performance potential. This is thanks to the well-designed suspension geometry.
3. High standard spec
With many of the premium sedan and coupe offerings, the manufacturers allow you to create the car that best suits your lifestyle. This usually comes at a price but with the BMW 4 Series, a lot of the creature comforts are included as standard. That's not to say you won't be able to customise it, but you may be able to save a few Rands by opting for the BMW over the competition.
4. Frugal fuel consumption
One seldom associates performance with frugality but in the BMW 4 Series this is a reality. When comparing the BMW M440i to its 3-litre+ competition, the straight-six turbocharged engine returns of the BMW offers the lowest average fuel consumption. It comes in at a claimed 6.6l/100km while the others struggle to break into the 7l/100km range.
5. It's a lightweight
The BMW 4 Series is one of the lightest coupes in the price range and is only beaten by the Toyota Supra and Porsche 718 Cayman - and even then, it's not by much. This explains where its amazing performance comes from and its incredible fuel consumption. A lightweight car handles better, stops better and uses less fuel, explaining all of our points above.
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