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It's not often that you drive a new model where the name has been more of a talking
point than the car itself. But that's the case with this the new BMW 4 series. It replaces
the 3 series coupe, which is probably the reason for all the hysteria about the name
change. but come on, people. Times change.
Let's get over it. So to help ease you into a world that now includes a 4 series, I'm
gonna play this first drive by 4. So come on. Let's get going. What are we waiting for?
You have to splash out an additional 3,000 pounds on a 4 series over an equivalent 3
series saloon. So, you're gonna want people to notice a difference.
So, what the big 4 key talking points for the styling. It's longer, wider, and lower
than the outgoing 3 series coupe and the current 3 series saloon. that sporty presence. And
it's more than a 3 series Saloon with two less doors. Every body panel is different
by one, the Many design cues come from the 4 series concept, most significantly this
angular bumper and headlight design at the front.
These gills that sit behind the front wheels are more than just for aesthetics. That should
distribute the air flow from the front bumper along the side of the car to improve efficiency.
but they look quite cool as well, that real muscle car feel. So other than the looks,
it's the driving performance that coupe buyers really look for.
so how does a 4 series stack up? The motor we're testing is the 420D and BMW says 1 in
3, 4 series sold in the UK will be this model. And the the engine is flexible and punchy,
so it's really useable on all UK roads. But we'd like it to be a bit more refined, as
that distinct diesel engine grumble, especially when you're driving in town and when you're
accelerating hard.
It will be the cheapest to run, though. See our full tested figures for this engine in
the current 3 series saloon by clicking the link. The lower, more grounded ride, along
with the longer wheels base and the wider track makes the 4 series feel distinctly different
to the 3 series saloon. It's still got that very BMW-like sharp and really responsive
steering, but it seems to hold the road nicer than the Saloon does.
Like all modern BMWs, the 4 series comes with adaptable driving mode as standard. It's comfort
mode that best irons out all the bumps and ruts in the road. But the smallest wheel size
you can opt for is 17 inches and all models come [xx] tires. That means the ride is always
going to be relatively crashy.
The model we're testing comes with a six-speed manual gear box. But if your budget will allow,
we'd stretch to the eight-speed automatic, which comes at about a 1500 pound premium
along, arduous journeys, it's calm and relaxing. But when you stick it into sport or sport
plus mode, it offers really sharp, crisp gear changes.
it's priced on a par with closest rivals the Audi A5 coupe and Mercedes C Class coupe.
It might be 3,000 pounds more than an equivalent 3 series saloon, but it's better equipped.
SE trim, get xenon headlights, parking sensors front and rear and heated seats. There's very
little change with the 4 series interior layout to any other modern BMW.
But that's no bad thing it's simple, clean, and all of the main controls are within easy
reach of the driver. The sloping roof does mean there's less headroom in the back of
the force series then the three series Saloon. But there's enough if you've got a young family
and need to seat two children in the back.
Okay, so I might be loving this four theme a little bit too much. So I'll try not to
dwell on the number while I'm giving my four point first drive verdict. Number one, it
is a coupe. But don't think of the four series as an out and out sports car. Well the looks
might suggest otherwise, it's not formidable to drive.
Number two, it's surprisingly practical, enough for family use. It's got a massive boot and
there's enough room in the back for 2.4 children. Number three, it looks great, and that combined
with a BMW badge means it's going to retain its value for the foreseeable future. Finally,
number four, it's ultimately picked up where the 3 series coupe left off.
And the 4 series is still the pick of its class. As a complete package overlook the
Audi A5 coupe and the Mercedes C Class coupe and go straight for the BMW 4 series. You
could say it's a foregone conclusion conclusion.