2021 BMW 4-Series

Overview

BMW's two-door 4-series differentiates itself from the 3-series sedan with a controversial front-end 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 turbo-four 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. The new 4-series takes on other premium two-door models such as the Audi A5, Lexus RC, and 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.

What's New for 2021?

Everything. The 4-series finally catches up to the 3-series for 2021 with a clean-sheet redesign and bolder exterior styling.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The same two overachieving engines offered in the 3-series are available in the 4-series. Models designated 430i is powered by a 255-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder. 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. The 4-series provides a very sporty driving experience, courtesy of a retuned suspension, a more-aggressive steering calibration, a wider rear track, and a lower center of gravity. We've tested the M440i coupe and came away less impressed with its driving characteristic than its terrific inline-six. Apart from strong brakes that performed well in our 70-to-zero-mph test (149 feet), the Bimmer's rubbery steering and compliant ride didn't deliver the same satisfaction we got from the M340i sedan. During our test drive of an all-wheel drive 430i xDrive model, we noted decent power from the turbocharged four-cylinder but came away with a similar complaint about the car's too-soft suspension.

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Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The EPA estimates the four-cylinder 430i coupe will earn 26 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. Adding all-wheel drive into the equation drops those figures to 24 and 33 mpg, respectively. The six-cylinder M440i is rated at 22 mpg city and 31 highway. We haven't tested the M440i model on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy route, but the 430i xDrive delivered 34 mpg over the 200-mile test.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Shoppers may not notice much difference between the cabins of the 4-series and the 3-series unless they're in the back seat. The dashboard layout, interior materials, and primary controls look to be identical to the four-door 3-series', although we noticed that the lower roofline in the 4-series gives it a less spacious feel. Trunk space is less generous here than in the 3-series, especially in the convertible model; in our testing, we fit five carry-on suitcases in the trunk of the coupe model, one less than in the 3-series sedan.

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Infotainment and Connectivity

The 2021 4-series comes with the same standard 8.8-inch and optional 10.3-inch infotainment screens as the 3-series sedan. Both displays run the latest version of BMW's iDrive 7 infotainment software, which pairs an intuitive interface with a console-mounted clickwheel controller for easy use while driving; those who prefer to interact with the display directly can do since both are touchscreens. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and in-dash navigation will all be standard while a 12.3-inch digital gauge display, onboard Wi-Fi, and a wireless smartphone charging pad are optional extras.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

BMW offers a host of driver-assistance features to as standard with more advanced features available as options. For more information about the 4-series' crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:

• Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
• Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
• Available adaptive cruise control with semi-autonomous driving mode

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Compared to rivals such as the Cadillac CT5 or the Genesis G70 the BMW 4-series' standard warranty offerings are fairly basic. BMW makes up for that with a three-year complimentary maintenance plan, whereas the Caddy only offers but one free visit.

• Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
• Complimentary maintenance is covered for three years or 36,000 miles

More Features and Specs