BMW has rewritten the script for 2014, as the ever-popular 3-Series becomes a sedan-only lineup, while coupes and convertibles gain a new moniker: the 4-Series.
The all-new 4-Series is larger cars overall than the 3-Series, with an increased wheelbase and wider stance but also a lower profile. Clean, flowing exterior lines carry on the BMW design language, while trademark elements like the twin kidney bean grille and Hoffmeister Kink at the C-pillar base further the marque's illustrious history. The 4-Series also has the lowest center of gravity of any BMW, making it one of the most athletic series in the range.
Two 4-Series trim levels are offered, covering both the coupe and convertible: the 428i and the 435i. The 428i comes powered by a turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder that produces 240-horsepower, while the 435i features a turbocharged 3.0L inline-6 engine delivering 300 horsepower. Standard on both cars is an 8-speed automatic transmission, though a 6-speed manual is a no-cost option. Both cars come standard with rear-wheel drive but can be equipped with BMW's capable xDrive all-wheel-drive system.
4-Series coupes and convertibles come very nicely equipped with Star Spoke alloy wheels, adaptive Xenon headlights with auto-leveling, halogen fog lights, rain-sensing windshield wipers, 8-way power front seats with driver's side memory, a split fold-down rear seat, burled walnut wood trim, automatic climate control, a multi-function sport steering wheel with audio and cruise controls, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, iDrive, and more. Driving features include dynamic cruise control, stability control, traction control, brake fade compensation and dynamic brake control.
The convertible features a 3-piece power retractable hardtop, which takes just 20 seconds to cycle. The top features advanced soundproofing via a "noise-absorbing" headliner, which ensures a quiet, comfortable ride in all weather conditions.
Nearly limitless options allow for total personalization of the 4-Series. Chief among them are Luxury Line, Sport Line and M Line. Luxury Line adds different alloy wheels, a choice of alternative wood trims with metal inlays and a choice of leather seating. Sport Line adds a choice high-gloss black, brushed aluminum, or anthracite wood trim black and improved seating surfaces. Finally, M Line offers an aerodynamic kit, M steering wheel, sport seats, added exterior color choices and high-performance M suspension.
Other packages include a Cold Weather Pack, with heated seats and steering wheel, a Technology Package, with touchpad navigation, improved instrumentation, head-up display, and BMW apps and a Dynamic Handling Package, with variable sport steering and adaptive M suspension.
The BMW 4-Series is an all-new model for 2014, available as a 2-door coupe or convertible. The cars replace the 3-Series coupe and convertible models. The 4-Series is offered as both the 428i, with a 240-hp turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder, and as the 435i, with a 300-hp turbocharged 3.0L inline-6 engine. Both engines can be paired with either a standard 8-speed automatic transmission, or a no-cost optional 6-speed manual. BMW claims the 435i coupe will do 0?60 mph in just 5 seconds when equipped with the automatic, while the 428i coupe hits the mark in 5.7 seconds. Both trims come with rear-wheel drive but can be equipped with BMW's capable xDrive all-wheel-drive system.
The 428i coupe is priced from $41,425, while the 435i starts at $46,925. MSRP for the 428i convertible is stated at $49,675, while the 435i convertible starts at $55,825.
The new BMW 4-Series coupe picks up where last year's 3-Series coupe left off. The 4-Series expertly blends a sporty, spirited driving dynamic with visual appeal, high-quality materials and precise craftsmanship to offer an exclusive feel at an inviting point of entry. The premium coupe market is a crowded one, with established rivals like the Audi A5, Mercedes-Benz C-Class coupes and Infiniti Q60 all vying for attention. With a convertible model due later in the year and a performance-focused M variant likely on the horizon, the 4-Series is the most exciting offering from Bavaria in a long time.