Overview & Reviews

The BMW 4 Series is the company's replacement for the two-door 3 Series. BMW's recently revised nomenclature dictates that odd numbers indicate a sedan, SUV or wagon, while even numbers denote a coupe or convertible. The 4 Series, which is available as both a coupe and convertible, boasts top-notch build quality, spirited performance and a pleasing balance of sporty handling and a comfortable ride quality. Although it is heavily related to the 3 Series sedan, the sleeker 4 is distinguished by a lower height, a more swept-back roof line and front fender vents.

If you are at all familiar with BMW's long-running, incredibly popular 3 Series coupe and convertible, then there are really no surprises here. Given the 4 Series' handsome styling, welcoming cabin, strong yet efficient engines and athletic handling, we think this is one of the best entry-level luxury sport coupes and convertibles available.

Current BMW 4 Series
The BMW 4 Series debuted for the 2014 model year and is available as a coupe or convertible. Trim levels consist of the 428i and 435i. Rear-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive (called xDrive) is available on the coupe.

Powering the 428i is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 241 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. For the 435i, BMW employs a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 with 300 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard, and a six-speed manual is available on rear-drive coupes. All 4 Series feature an automatic engine stop-start function that turns off the engine when the car stops in order to save fuel.

Inside the 4 Series, you'll find classy styling and top-grade materials. There's a 6.5-inch display screen standard, though the larger optional screen is more user-friendly. The iDrive multifunction controller is fairly easy to use, thanks to logical menus and quick response. Seats are supportive and comfortable front and rear, and compared to the previous-generation 3 Series coupe, there's more legroom and enough headroom for a pair of average-sized adults to sit in back without much complaint.

In reviews, we've been impressed by both versions of the BMW 4 Series. Choosing the 428i doesn't mean you're settling for the "base" model given its very strong performance and the four-cylinder engine's entertaining soundtrack. Of course, the 435i doesn't disappoint with its even stronger output. The one demerit on the 4 Series is the automatic engine stop-start function, which isn't the smoothest when the engine restarts (though this feature can be disabled).

A curvy road is this car's playground, and getting up early for a Sunday drive is well worth it. Compared to the sedan, the 4 Series rides a bit lower, and both the suspension and the steering have a sportier state of tune. Those who find the ride too firm can opt for the driver-selectable adaptive suspension, which nearly erases road imperfections while further boosting the car's stability.

Used BMW 4 Series Models
The 4 Series is new, but if you're looking for a used two-door BMW, the 4 supplanted the previous 3 Series coupe and convertible.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 13 of 13.00

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  A true BMW Marvel - 2016 BMW 4-Series
  By J. Haider - April 25 - 8:20 pm

  A true luxury with comfort, class and excellent dynamics.

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  Possibly the best convertible "sporty" car today! - 2016 BMW 4-Series
  By Lee Moss - July 23 - 12:52 am

  Overall, this is the best convertible I have ever owned, and I have owned 7 convertibles prior to this purchase, one of which was an outstanding 2005 BMW 330ci convertible! I traded in a 2013 Audi A6 and 2008 Porsche Boxster for this car, trying to get a combination that best reflected those 2 cars combined. The BMW is not a sports car, nor is it intended to be, but it has the feel of one! It is by far the quietest convertible I have owned, measured both by top up and down. The wind reflector really helps, but it only works with people in the front seats. The back seats are "adequate" for adults around town, but not for long trips. The heated neck ventilator is wonderful anytime it is below 68 degrees. I deeply value a strong sound system, particularly with the top down, and the Harman Kardon system does not disappoint. We have taken several 7 hour plus trips, and it is very comfortable on the long trips, top up or down. The engine and transmission are smooth and powerful, and they are more than 90% of the owners would ever want or need. I loved my 2005 BMW, but this car is much sleeker, with a larger and more comfortable interior. The trunk and fold down rear seat are outstanding with the top up, and more that adequate when down. We comfortably took a week long trip to the beach with beach chairs and top down, which you couldnt do in most hard top convertibles. I have the following criticisms: 1) A luxury convertible should have available ventilated seats, and they are NOT an option, 2) the navigation and sound system are not as intuitive or efficient as in the Audi, and 3) the climate control is not fully automatic, it requires you to manually adjust the fans speed and vent direction. Overall, these are minor detractors, but changes BMW needs to make in this car. I have owned the car for 5 months, and I truly love driving it and am fully pleased with my purchase, and confidently recommend this car if it is what you are seeking!

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  Fun Car - 2016 BMW 4-Series
  By George Golomb - May 11 - 1:18 am

  The convertible is fun to drive in good weather with the top down. What pleasantly surprised me is how comfortable the car is in cold weather. With heated seats, the hardtop convertible feels warm and delightful on cold days.