MW's two-door 4-series differentiates itself from the 3-series sedan with a controversial new design and a more elegant roofline. Mechanically, the two cars are almost identical. They are powered by the same two powertrains: either a 255-hp turbocharged four-cylinder or a 382-hp turbocharged inline-six. While passenger space is obviously arranged differently inside the two-door 4-series, occupants are treated to the same basic interior design, layout, and features as in the four-door—and as fans of BMW's latest interior arrangement we're okay with that. BMW says the new 4-series will start rolling out this fall, when it will take on other premium two-door models such as the Audi A5, the Lexus RC, and the Mercedes-Benz C-class. Fans of the fastback 4-series Gran Coupe sedan or the high-performance M4 (both reviewed separately) will be happy to know that those models will continue to be offered.
We haven't driven the new 4-series yet, but in our experience with the four-door 3-series models, the turbocharged inline-six in the M440i model will be the enthusiast's choice, but the nearly $13,000 price premium may turn off some buyers. That bump in price comes with a load of additional equipment though, in case you need more reason to justify the cost. The M440i comes standard with all-wheel drive, for one thing, and it's also outfitted with unique M Sport 18-inch wheels with run-flat tires, the M Sport suspension and rear differential, a rear spoiler, a faux-leather wrapped dashboard, and more. A convertible model is also offered but switching to the soft-top body style adds almost $8000 to the base price.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The same two overachieving engines offered in the 3-series will be available in the 4-series. Models designated 430i will be powered by a 255-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder. An all-wheel drive example of the 330i sedan managed a brisk 5.2-second zero-to-60-mph time at our test track; we expect similarly peppy performance from the 430i. The M440i is powered by a silky-smooth turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six that gains an assist from a 48-volt hybrid system to make 382-hp—good for a 3.8-second zero-to-60-mph time in the M340i. Our short drive of prototype 4-series models in Munich revealed a very sporty driving experience, courtesy of retuned suspension, a more-aggressive steering calibration, a wider rear track, and a lower center of gravity. We're looking forward to track-testing the 4-series after it's officially unveiled to see how it stacks up against its main rivals, the Audi A5 and S5, the Mercedes C-class coupe, and the Infiniti Q60.
We haven't driven the new 4-series yet, but in our experience with the four-door 3-series models, the turbocharged inline-six in the M440i model will be the enthusiast's choice, but the nearly $13,000 price premium may turn off some buyers. That bump in price comes with a load of additional equipment though, in case you need more reason to justify the cost. The M440i comes standard with all-wheel drive, for one thing, and it's also outfitted with unique M Sport 18-inch wheels with run-flat tires, the M Sport suspension and rear differential, a rear spoiler, a faux-leather wrapped dashboard, and more. A convertible model is also offered but switching to the soft-top body style adds almost $8000 to the base price.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The same two overachieving engines offered in the 3-series will be available in the 4-series. Models designated 430i will be powered by a 255-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder. An all-wheel drive example of the 330i sedan managed a brisk 5.2-second zero-to-60-mph time at our test track; we expect similarly peppy performance from the 430i. The M440i is powered by a silky-smooth turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six that gains an assist from a 48-volt hybrid system to make 382-hp—good for a 3.8-second zero-to-60-mph time in the M340i. Our short drive of prototype 4-series models in Munich revealed a very sporty driving experience, courtesy of retuned suspension, a more-aggressive steering calibration, a wider rear track, and a lower center of gravity. We're looking forward to track-testing the 4-series after it's officially unveiled to see how it stacks up against its main rivals, the Audi A5 and S5, the Mercedes C-class coupe, and the Infiniti Q60.
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