BMW 4 Series

The BMW 4 Series replaces the popular BMW 3 coupe. The 3 Series was has been on many car magazine’s top ten list, and the 4 is sure to follow. The Series 4 is faster than the car it replaces, and handles better due to a lower center of gravity and improved suspension, and a reconfigured steering mechanism.

Sportier Than Its Predecessor

The 3 Series is still in production as a sedan, but the two-door BMW 4 looks a lot different than just two missing doors. Its side panels are raked with creases and the functional vents just behind the front wheels give it a sporty look. The Series 4 even comes with LED headlights, which gives it a different look at night as well.

Two Engine Sizes

BMW offers a 240 horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder in the 428i and a 300 horsepower turbocharged six cylinder in their 435i. The Series 4 chassis is lower and wider than the series 3, and has a beefed up suspension. The roof is lower, giving a true sports car look in profile, and it has a supremely low 20-inch high center of gravity.

Many reviewers prefer the manual six speed transmission and say it makes the car more fun to drive, but report that the automatic transmission works flawlessly.

The Usual Interior For BMW

As you’ve come to expect with any BMW product, the interior is ergonomically superb, made with high-quality materials that are generously appointed. The Series 4 driver and front seat passenger make out much better than any rear seat passengers, but that’s probably to be expected of any coupe.

The electronic features of BMWs are controlled by their iDrive system. Both Series 4 models come with standard sunroof, an entertainment center, a 6.5-inch touch screen display, and faux-leather upholstery. Options include heated seats, cruise control, in-dash navigation, a heads-up display, an elaborate Harman-Kardon surround sound stereo, lane departure warning, and a self-parking system.

Specifications:

• Vehicle type: Two-door, front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 4-passenger, coupe
• Engine: Turbocharged inline-6, aluminum block with direct fuel injection
• Displacement: 182 cubic inches
• Power: 300 horsepower
• Transmission: 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic
• Dimensions: Wheelbase: 110.6 in, Length: 182.6 in, Width: 71.9 in Height: 54.2 in
• Weight: 3560 pounds
• Performance: 0 to 60 mph: 4.8 seconds, standing ¼-mile: 14 seconds
• Top speed: 155 mph
• Fuel economy: EPA city/highway driving: 25/35 mpg

Some drivers may notice that the Series 4 relies on electric assist steering, a change from the Series 3 hydraulic assist. While the Series 4 electric assist steering is decidedly better than many other brands, the loss of road feel is noticeable, and makes the BMW 4 Series feel less like a sports car.

The Series 4 includes a slew of safety features:

• Driver air bag
• Side air bag
• Side head air bag
• Four wheel anti-lock brakes
• Electronic stability control
• Passenger air bag
• Rear head air bags
• Four wheel disc brakes
• Daytime running lights

The BMW 4 Series comes with a five years or 100,000 KM limited warranty.

BMWs are routinely rated among the most reliable cars in yearly surveys.