BMW reveals 2014 4 Series Coupe with new engines and tech
BMW has unveiled the 2014 4 Series Coupe, which replaces the 3 Series Coupe, with a broader engine range, updated technology and a larger, lower body.
BMW has officially taken the wraps off the 2014 4 Series Coupe, confirming its role as the successor to the 3 Series Coupe. The new two-door will make its public debut at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, with sales starting in October 2013.
The 4 Series Coupe launches with a choice of three petrol and three diesel engines. The entry-level 420d uses a 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel producing 181bhp, with emissions as low as 121g/km and claimed economy up to 61.4mpg. The 430d brings a 3.0-litre six-cylinder diesel with 254bhp, while the range-topping 435d, only available with xDrive four-wheel drive, offers 309bhp.
On the petrol side, the 420i starts the range with 181bhp, while the 428i delivers 242bhp. The flagship 435i uses a turbocharged straight-six, reaching 100km/h in 5.1 seconds when paired with the eight-speed automatic gearbox. Manual versions are slightly slower. Both rear- and four-wheel drive (xDrive) variants are available, depending on the engine.
Dimensions and design changes
Compared to the outgoing 3 Series Coupe, the 4 Series is 26mm longer at 4,638mm, with a 50mm longer wheelbase and a roofline 16mm lower. Width increases by 43mm, with an extra 80mm at the rear axle, giving the car a more planted stance. The new model is up to 30kg heavier than its predecessor, but BMW points to improved specification and technology as justification.
Trim levels and equipment
Buyers can choose from five trim levels: SE, Sport, Modern, Luxury and M Sport. Standard kit includes a 6.5-inch infotainment display, Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control, heated front seats, multi-function steering wheel, 17-inch alloys, and front and rear parking sensors. Options include active cruise control, a colour head-up display, self-parking, and the latest generation of BMW’s iDrive system.
Pricing and availability
BMW has confirmed that the 420d will cost around €635 more than the outgoing 3 Series Coupe in Europe. In the US, the 428i Coupe starts at $41,425, while the 435i Coupe begins at $46,925. xDrive four-wheel drive is available on selected models, with the 435d exclusively offered with this system. The top-spec M4 is expected to follow at the end of 2013, with an estimated price of $86,201 (about €64,691 at the time).
- 420d: 2.0-litre, 181bhp, 121g/km CO2, up to 61.4mpg
- 430d: 3.0-litre, 254bhp
- 435d: 3.0-litre, 309bhp, xDrive only
- 420i: 2.0-litre, 181bhp
- 428i: 2.0-litre, 242bhp
- 435i: 3.0-litre, up to 5.1s 0-100km/h
Market context
The 4 Series Coupe enters a segment dominated by the Audi A5 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe. BMW positions the new model as sportier and more technologically advanced than its predecessor, with a broader range of engines and improved standard equipment. The 4 Series also sets the template for future BMW coupes, with the 3 Series name now reserved for saloons and estates. For more on BMW’s latest saloon and estate models, see BMW reveals 2013 3 Series Touring with more space and turbo engines.
