The recently unveiled BMW 4 Series has divided opinions with its styling, more specifically the new kidney grille. By comparison, the design of the outgoing model can be considered as conservative. The current or rather outgoing 4 Series is based on the F30 3 Series platform which was replaced by the G20 3 Series, prompting the development of a new (G22) 4 Series.
Related: New BMW 4 Series Coupé (G22) arriving in late-2020
While the new 4 Series is yet to make its local appearance, the outgoing F32 (Coupe), F33 (Convertible) and F36 (Gran Coupe) models, as well as the F82 (M4 Coupe) and F83 (M4 Convertible), remain available on both the new and used vehicle market.
The BMW 4 Series is offered in a variety of trim levels, however, only four engines service the entire range. Entry-level derivatives incorporate an 8-speed Tiptronic transmission while sportier models aptly see an 8-speed sport Tiptronic transmission fitted. All M4 variants use the 7-speed automated dual-clutch transmission offered by BMW.
Comparison
The BMW 4 Series and M4 models compete in a variety of segments with consumers requiring different needs. While some consumers expect sportiness or all out performance, others might place frugality and reliability at the top of their list. Below we compare the three petrol engine derivatives with the one diesel option available in the 4 Series range.
| BMW 420i Petrol (F32, F33, F36) | BMW 420d Diesel (F32, F36) | BMW 440i Petrol (F32, F33, F36) | BMW M4 Petrol (F82, F83) | |
| Cylinder layout + engine capacity | Inline 4, 1998 cc | Inline 4, 1995 cc | Inline 6, 2998 cc | Inline 6, 2979 cc |
| Power | 135 kW | 140 kW | 240 kW | 317 kW |
| Torque | 270 N.m | 400 N.m | 450 N.m | 550 N.m |
| 0-100 km/h | 7.5 s | 7.1 s | 5.0 s | 4.1 s |
| Top speed | 236 km/h | 232 km/h | 250 km/h | 250 km/h |
| Fuel consumption | 5.5 L / 100 km | 4.0 L / 100 km | 6.6 L / 100 km | 8.3 L / 100 km |
| CO2 emissions | 127 g/km | 106 g/km | 154 g/km | 194 g/km |
Verdict
When comparing the 420i and 420d models, the petrol offering lacks behind the performance and frugality of the diesel motor, only offering a slightly higher top speed. By this measure, the 420d clearly makes a strong case for itself, even with the near R40 000 premium on the purchase price. However, we are comparing all four engine options and although the petrol motor in the M4 derivatives produces some staggering figures in terms of performance, one cannot ignore how close the 440i comes.
If you are looking for an entry-level 4 Series, the diesel variant will return with lower fuel consumption and give you all the torque you need. In our opinion, this will is the model to consider unless you are in the position to opt for the 440i. The drastic increase in performance will not only prove ample on a long haul to a holiday destination but also bring you close to what you could experience in an M4, making the 440i our winner.
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