BMW Serie 4

The nomenclature change that BMW applied to the entire range meant the arrival of the BMW Serie 4. Originally born as a coupé version of the BMW Serie 3, the division caused the birth of a new family. Over the years, this family has become one of the most successful of the firm, with an important portfolio of products.

We have tested this car:

Test BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé, a different saloon

Although initially the 4 Series was born exclusively with a coupé body, over the years more formats have appeared. On one hand we have the 4 Series Gran Coupé, a five-door sedan with a sports line. And on the other hand we have the 4 Series Convertible with retractable hard top. All options share, for the most part, mechanics and technology.

In 2017 the entire range received a light facelift corresponding to the second commercial life cycle. A slight update that introduced small aesthetic tweaks, a more efficient range of engines and also technological and equipment improvements in order to face a second stage that will conclude in 2021 with the launch of the second generation.

Technical characteristics of the BMW 4 Series

Being born from the spin-off of Series 3, the BMW 4 Series rests on the same platform as the sedan did in 2014. That structure, with a longitudinal engine and rear-wheel drive, leaves us with a well-known architecture that is easy to adapt to different bodies, just as the 4 Series does.

In this case BMW has chosen to maintain the external dimensions for all bodies: 4,64 meters long, 1,82 meters wide and 1,37 meters high. The height varies depending on the model, with the cabrio being the tallest at 1,38 metres. To these levels must be added a 2,81 meter wheelbase long for the three bodies, which translates into a habitability that does not go beyond the mere correct with a maximum capacity of five passengers.

The most notable differences are found in the load capacity figures of the trunks. As expected the unit with less volume is the BMW 4 Series Cabrio with a minimum of 370 liters. Immediately afterwards comes the Coupé body with a 445-litre trunk, and finally the most residential of all is the Gran Coupé, which thanks to its format manages to homologate a minimum trunk of 480 liters.

Mechanical range and gearboxes of the BMW 4 Series

The BMW 4 Series targets a wide range of potential customers. For this reason, it boasts a very extensive and varied mechanical range. Standard options include three gasoline versions and as many diesel. Special mention deserves the BMW M4 of 431 horses, only available in the Coupé and Cabrio bodies, which is positioned as the sportiest model in the range.

The range of gasoline engines starts with the 420-horsepower 184i, the exit option to the 4 Series. Above it are the 430-horsepower 252i and the 440-horsepower 326i. The two most powerful options can mount an xDrive all-wheel drive system, although they come standard with rear-wheel drive, a possibility that does not exist in the access version. The same goes for the changes, automatic for the 430i and 440i, and manual as standard on the 420i.

The diesel range has three options: 420d, 430d and 435d, which officialize 190, 258 and 313 horses respectively. The power of the engine goes to the rear wheels, except in the case of the 435d, which does so at four through an xDrive system that can also be used, as an option, on the 430d. The boxes can be, depending on the version, six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic with a torque converter type change.

Equipment of the BMW 4 Series

Despite the update suffered in 2017, the technology associated with cars is advancing very quickly. The age of the BMW 4 Series is noticeable in the lack of certain aspects of equipment. You just have to compare with the current 3 Series to see the difference in equipment from one generation to another. Model that also helps us to know what technology will be associated with the 2021 model.

Where age does not matter is in terms of qualities and finishes. as expected the 4 Series responds to BMW's premium concept. The materials are good, as are the finishes. The cabin conveys a good feeling of quality and durability. Personalization is limited within the current options, although some components can be adapted by entering the Individual or M Performance world.

In the range of the BMW 4 Series we have several lines of equipment that allow an aesthetic modification and an improvement of equipment. There are three lines: Sport, Luxury and M Sport. At the equipment level, the 4 Series can show off interesting elements such as: LED headlights, keyless entry and start, remote services, a multimedia system with a 10,25-inch screen, a sunroof, electric and heated seats, and a partially digital instrument panel. In addition to a good team of driving assistants.

The BMW 4 Series in video

The BMW 4 Series according to Euro NCAP

When analyzing the safety of the BMW 4 Series we must take into consideration that it uses the same platform as the 3 Series F30. The notes set by Euro NCAP must be extrapolated from one to another, which serves to classify the 4 Series as a five-star car. Outstanding notes in sections such as protection for adult passengers, 95 out of 100, driving assistants, 86 out of 100, and child passenger protection, 84 out of 100.

The BMW 4 Series of Km 0 and second hand

Because of its design, its handling, its history and its popularity, the BMW 4 Series is a car with a lot of appeal for the second-hand market. There is a wide variety of units for sale. From base models to more attractive ones like the M4. The high desirability and good durability cause high sales prices, starting from figures close to 15.000 euros for models prior to the 2017 restyling.

If we look for newer units, after 2017, and we enter the Km 0 market, we see how the options are also very wide. Various bodies, powers and equipment with interesting discounts for buyers looking for a bargain. The depreciation percentage of the BMW 4 Series is low, the lowest in its category.

Rivals of the BMW 4 Series

Although the format and character of the Series 4 are not the most commercial of all, it does not mean that before yes have a tough and competitive rivalry. Their top opponents come from Germany. On one hand the Mercedes C-Class, with Coupé and Cabrio formats, and on the other the Audi A5. In the latter case, it could be said that it is the most complete rival that it has to stand up to, since it has the same body options as the BMW.

Highlight

Driving
Versions and bodies
Everyday practicality

To improve

Sale price
Price of packages and options
More powerful versions at almost prohibitive prices

Prices of the BMW 4 Series

Despite being a model with a few years on it, the Series 4 continues to be offered at a high price. In the most accessible of cases the BMW 4 Series has a starting price of 42.200 euros. This price corresponds to the Coupé body, the cheapest of all. Next we find the Series 4 Gran Coupé with a starting budget of 42.900 euros. The most expensive option is the Series 4 Cabrio, which starts its selling costs at 51.400 euros. All prices do not include specific offers or promotions.