Introduction

Blending beautiful lines with superior performance, the 2020 BMW 4-Series comes in three body styles: coupe and convertible, plus a five-door hatchback dubbed Gran Coupe. Unlike the closely related 3-Series four-door sedan, the 4-Series is still available with a 6-speed manual transmission, as a no-charge alternative to the 8-speed automatic. Mild updating for the 2020 model year includes a new diffuser and darker taillights. Sport and M Sport models get a new black grille frame. A newly standard Active Driving Assistance system includes lane-departure warnings, frontal-collision warnings, city collision mitigation, and pedestrian warnings. M Sport brakes are no longer available on convertibles.

Three trim levels are offered: base 430i, 440i, and top-performing M4, each with its own engine.

The 430i uses a 248-horsepower 2.0-liter turbo-4, producing 258 pound-feet of torque. That's sufficient to hit 60 mph in less than six seconds. Coupes can have either an 8-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission; others are automatic-only. Rear-drive is standard, with all-wheel drive a $2,000 option. BMW's xDrive system defaults to a 40/60 front/rear split.

The 440i substitutes a hardy turbo-6 that develops 320 hp and 330 pound-feet, also mating in coupes with either automatic or manual.

Only rear-drive is offered in the hot M4 version, with a 3.0-liter twin-turbo-6 cranking out 425 horsepower (454 hp in the CS Coupe).

No 4-Series has been crash-tested by either of the major rating agencies, and they're not likely to do so anytime soon.

All versions get automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and a system that can automatically notify first responders in case of a serious crash. Additional safety features are available, but cost extra. They include adaptive cruise control, active lane control, and blind-spot monitors. BMW tends to bundle options into packages.

Outward vision can be a challenge, especially for tall drivers. A $3,700 M Sport package may be added to 440i models.. 

Lineup

Prices include $995 destination charge.

The 430i Coupe ($45,945 with rear-drive, $47,945 with xDrive all-wheel drive) comes with synthetic leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, 18-inch wheels, automatic climate controls, an 8.8-inch touchscreen with navigation, and Apple CarPlay compatibility. The 430i Convertible ($54,095 with rear-drive, $56,095 with AWD) is equipped similar to the Coupe. The 430i Gran Coupe ($45,745 with rear-drive, $47,745 with AWD) has the larger hatchback body.

The 440i Coupe ($52,345 with rear-drive, $54,345 with AWD) steps up to a 320-hp turbo-6 engine. The 440i Convertible ($61,145 with rear-drive, $63,145 with AWD) is equipped similar to the Coupe. The 440i Gran Coupe ($52,145 with rear-drive, $54,145 with AWD) puts the turbo-6 engine into a five-door hatchback body.

The M4 version comes in Coupe ($70,145) or Convertible ($78,645) form, with rear-drive and a 425-hp turbo-6 engine. Topping the performance group, the M40 CS Coupe ($104,095) is powered by a 454-hp turbo-6.. 

Walkaround

Handsome yet understated, each 4-Series model incorporates appealing muscular proportions and overall appearance. All versions share a long hood and rakishly-shaped swept-back windshield.. 

Interior

Inside, each BMW 4-Series is even more reserved and conservative. 

Four occupants are the realistic maximum in any body style. Coupes and convertibles are best for a pair-with space for two in back only when necessary.

Head clearance in two-door coupes is cramped, whereas the Gran Coupe provides greater passenger space and longer-haul comfort.

The 4-Series' standard front seats are comfortable, but optional sport seats provide better bolstering. Taller drivers might have to lean forward to see properly.

Getting into and out of rear seats in a coupe or convertible is a challenge. Only smaller adults and children will fit comfortably for long stretches. Even medium-size adults might feel cramped. Although a Gran Coupe is roomier, its dramatic roofline cuts deeply into head clearance in the rear.

Most cabin surfaces are high-quality and durable, though plastics on the center console feel a bit dull. The infotainment employs a generously-sized touchscreen.

Gran Coupes have the most cargo volume, totaling 17 cubic feet. Coupes offer 15.7 cubic feet of trunk volume. Convertibles manage 13.1 cubic feet with the top up, shrinking to 7.8 with the top stowed.. 

Driving Impression

Every 4-Series powertrain is a good choice, starting with the base 430i-the most popular model in coupe form. Each version earns plaudits for both potency and poise.

Even the base 430i engine is vividly engaging, especially when mated to the smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic. The 320-hp turbo-6 in 440i models is a stirring performer-but at a heavy price hike. Any 440i model moves out sweetly and smoothly, able to strike 60 mph in less than five seconds.

As expected, this BMW steers confidently with a sense of firmness. Three levels of suspension tuning are available, though a 4-Series with base suspension might be in short supply.

Adding an M Sport suspension results in a firmer ride. Available adaptive dampers toggle between normal and sport modes, with a substantial gap between the two. Each setting works well for its intended purpose.

BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system is among the best. Its rear-drive bias produces an appealing sports-car feel.

Gas mileage varies significantly, based on the engine. With automatic, the base 430i coupe is EPA-rated at 23 mpg city, 34 highway, 27 combined. Manual shift cuts the estimate to 21/33/25 mpg.

An all-wheel-drive 440i coupe is EPA-rated at 19/27/22 mpg with manual or 22/30/25 mpg with automatic. As expected, an M4 is the least frugal, rated no higher than 18 mpg city, 25 highway, 20 combined.. 

Summary

Often overlooked compared to the every-popular 3-Series sedan, the 4-Series model comes well-equipped, with an exceptional options list. Base models lack little, delivering good power in a compact configuration. Among the three body styles and three engines, each ranks as a good pick. Coupe and convertible are visually stimulating and contemporary, while the Gran Coupe is more practical and trendy. The base 430i coupe is the most popular-and most affordable.

 

-by James M. Flammang, with driving impressions from The Car Connection.