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First Drive Review: BMW 4-Series 2014

Image of Martyn Collins
Author: | Updated: 02 Sep 2013 11:54

Think BMW small executive coupe and up until now, you'd be thinking of the 3-Series coupe range - but not anymore.

Following on from the launch of the all-new saloon and Touring versions of the 3-Series last year and after 37 years and five generations, BMW has launched a new compact coupe. Only this time, it has a different name - the 4-Series.

The 4 Series has sportier styling, enhanced driving dynamics and more equipment than the preceding 3 Series

So why the name change? Well, BMW see it as a logical extension to their naming conventions. Just like the 6-Series is a sportier, coupe version of the 5-Series, every coupe version of the 3-Series is now a model in its own right and gets a 4 on its boot.

There is more to this new BMW coupe than just its name; outside it has sportier styling, enhanced driving dynamics and more equipment than the outgoing E92-generation, 3-Series coupe.

The 4-Series is also longer (+26mm), with an increase in wheelbase of 50mm and has more rear legroom (+12mm). All this extra space isn't at the expense of the boot, which increases by five litres to 445 in total.

The 4-Series is longer than the 3-Series with an increase in wheelbase of 50mm and has more rear legroom

Exterior Styling

Outside, this model is essentially a production version of the 4-Series coupe concept car, first shown at the Detroit Motor Show earlier in January this year.

From the front, it is hard to tell the difference between the 4-Series and the 3-Series, particularly with the elongated bonnet and the headlights and kidney grille all in one unit. Although, the front airdam designs are more muscular, especially on range-topping M Sport versions.

It is at the side that the differences become more obvious, with a 10mm lower roofline, distinctive shoulder line and wider wheel arches, which are needed to house the extended tracks.

From the front, it is hard to tell the difference between the 4-Series and the 3-Series

The most interesting 4-Series design feature, apart from the wider arches at the side, are the unique air scoops on the front wings, that do apparently work, keeping the air flowing to cool the brakes.

At the back, the larger track and perhaps over-sized rear wheel arch design, makes the 4-Series almost seem too wide. Like the front, all the rear apron designs have more aggression, notably those fitted with twin exhaust pipes.

It is also worth mentioning that there are different exterior design features, such as front and rear aprons and wheels, for all 4-Series trims, which can make each model look quite different.

From the rear, the 4-Series almost seems too wide

Interior Styling

The changes for the 4-Series interior over the 3-Series are less obvious; this is no bad thing, as the dashboard design is attractive, with fine ergonomics and instruments that are easy to read.

There is a multi-adjustable driving position, so even the tallest should get comfortable. Access to the rear seats is also excellent, with plenty of legroom, although the sweeping roofline eats into the headroom.

Gadget wise, models fitted with the Professional Navigation system, have the new iDrive touch controller, which now neatly doubles up as a touch pad.

The dashboard design is attractive, with fine ergonomics and instruments that are easy to read

Engines and Transmissions

Just three engines will be available at launch this October; a 245 bhp 2.0-litre turbo petrol badged as the 428i, a 306 bhp 3.0-litre turbo petrol badged as the 335i and the 184bhp 2.0-litre turbo diesel badged as the 420d.

A further three engines, a lower powered 2.0-litre petrol, badged as the 420i and two diesels, the 430d and the 435d, both with 3.0-litre diesel engines, will be available in November.

With the unpredictable nature of our winter weather, xDrive four-wheel drive versions of the 420i, 420d and 435d are sure to prove popular with buyers.

All engines are available with six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmissions.

What is the 4-Series like to drive?

I had the chance to drive what is expected to be the top-seller, the 420d and also the range-topping 435i, both with six-speed manual transmission.

When you look at the competitive 124g/km CO2 emissions, 60.1mpg combined fuel economy and a top speed of 149mph and you can see why the diesel will sell best.

On the road, the 420d feels impressively torquey and flexible. Although I feel this diesel BMW coupe could be more refined, with too much noise being heard inside the cabin at idle and when accelerating.

BMW 435i Coupé Sport Line, Melbourne Rot, 306 PS, 400 Nm, Interieur: Leder Dakota Schwarz, Alu Längsschliff fein, Akzentleiste korallrot matt

With its 185g/km CO2 emissions and 35.8mpg combined fuel economy, the 335i is still competitive. In fact, VED is reduced by £140 to £335 and BIK drops by 2% to 29%.

The 420d feels no slouch, but the 435i is the more impressive performer. It thrives on being revved and the exhaust makes a welcome deep rumble. It is better matched to the six-speed manual transmission too.

Thankfully, in my view, the standout features of the 3-Series, the refined ride and impressive agility, remains unchanged in the 4-Series. Even on 18-inch wheels.

In fact, with the 4-Series' wider track and lower stance, I think it is even sharper and more entertaining. I also appreciated the light, responsive and well-weighted steering.

However, it is worth mentioning that both of the cars I drove were fitted with the optional Adaptive M Sport suspension, which like the 3-Series, makes the most of its impressive chassis.

Specification and Pricing

SE, Modern, Sport, Luxury and M Sport trims will be available from October, with prices starting at £31,575 for the 420d SE.

Specifications are generous; even the entry-level SE has Dakota leather trim, a multi-function steering wheel, front and rear park distance control and Xenon headlights. Sport and Modern trims add 18-inch alloy wheels and sports seats. Luxury has BMW Business sat nav, while the range-topping M Sport trim includes an M Sport leather steering wheel, an M Sport bodykit and M Sport suspension.

So, when stacked up against all the current talent in the executive coupe class, the new 4-Series is a keen drive, competitively priced, has affordable running costs, is well-equipped and both the interior and boot space are practical.

If you are in the market for a premium coupe, the BMW 4-Series is well worth a look.

SE, Modern, Sport, Luxury and M Sport trims will be available from October, with prices starting at £31,575 for the 420d SE.

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