BMW 4 Series: German Desirability

Not content with calling the two-door version of BMW’s 3 Series saloon the 3 Series Coupe? Good, just call it a 4 Series, you know, because BMW needs more model numbers as it is.

The 4 Series is the new model range from BMW but is in reality the successor to the 3 Series Coupe.

Of course, throwing in new numbers is no new thing. Audi did it when it launched the A5 as a two-door version of the A4 several years ago. What it does do is give the range more of its own identity, helping it sit separately from the 3 Series and adding to its desirability.

Still, it’s no surprise to see plenty of styling similarities with the 3 Series. The 4 Series has the same aggressive front end and angular headlights, while the trademark BMW twin rings looking especially menacing.

The M Series gets a lower front bumper and a rear diffuser – plus it’s the only trim level available with the Estoril Blue metallic paint – but even the other models look striking. It sits lower to the ground and is longer than the 3 Series Coupe, with a swooping roofline and shorter rear boot deck. The 4 Series looks great from every angle, but crucially, it’s different enough from the 3 Series to justify the new badge number.

Inside it’s very much BMW business as usual, with a high quality finish and well laid out controls. You sit low down while the high central console and sports steering wheel help to make the 4 Series feel that extra bit more sporty and a little bit special.

The seats are mightily impressive too, with loads of adjustment and good side support for when you decide to throw it round a few corners. Of course there’s not too much room in the back, but it’s plenty good for a coupe of this size and more spacious than the old 3 Series Coupe – helped by a longer wheelbase. All models come with the iDrive system, which now has a larger control dial and a sleek 6.5-inch screen on the dash top that is cleverly designed to be seen, even in bright sunlight.

In terms of engines, you won’t be surprised to find that the 
4 Series follows the 3 Series range. A 420d, a 428i and a top of the range 435i fill the lineup, either with the standard six-speed manual gearbox or excellent eight-speed automatic.

While BMW is keen to promote the 4 Series as more dynamic than the 3 Series, in truth it’s very similar to drive. That’s not a bad thing of course. It means the 4 Series has nice weighty steering – although the thick-rimmed wheel won’t be to everyone’s taste – and superb front end grip. It’s a real joy to flow from corner to corner with that rewardingly precise feeling through the steering wheel.

As desirability goes, the

4 Series is right up there alongside the Audi A5. It’s a great bit of BMW design and there’s not a dull engine in the line-up – every model gives impressive performance. While the rebrand might seem trivial, there’s no denying that it gives the 4 Series that little bit of exclusivity that BMW owners demand.

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