The new BMW 4 Series coupe has been officially revealed and heralds a new coupe era at BMW. The 4 Series will launch as a 2014 model and will include the 428i and 435i offerings with xDrive all-wheel drive available as an option on both models.
The entry level BMW 4 Series Coupe, the 428i, is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine that develops 179kW of power and 345Nm of torque. This allows the coupe to sprint from 0-100km/h in 5.7 seconds and hit an electronically-limited top speed of 250km/h.
As an alternative, the more powerful 4 Series 435i is fitted with a 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine that produces 224kW and 406Nm of torque. This enables the 435i to accelerate from 0-100km/h in 5.3 seconds with the six-speed manual and reach an electronically-limited top speed of 250 km/h.
Compared to the outgoing 3 Series Coupe, the new BMW 4 Series Coupe is visibly larger in width and wheelbase, and its stretched silhouette sits considerably lower to the road. The 4 Series is also distinguished by revised bumpers and front fender vents/Air Breathers that channel air out of the wheel arches to reduce drag.
The typical BMW short overhangs, long hood, and set back passenger compartment with flowing roofline give the 4 Series Coupe a visual balance. So does the striking front end design with double-kidney grille, four round headlights and a large air intake in the front apron.
The interior of the new 4 Series coupe incorporates sporty styling and quality materials. Some notable features include central controls arranged ergonomically around the driver, automatic seat belt valets, a sport steering wheel, circular instruments in black-panel look, and a flat-screen iDrive monitor. The iDrive Controller located for easy reach on the centre console and the armrest between the front seats give the cabin usability and comfort.
The backrest of the BMW 4 Series Coupes rear seat can be folded down in 40:20:40 segments, while in the rear compartment, contoured seats bring the sportiness of the 4 Series Coupe to all passengers. Recessed head restraints and continuously moulded side supports give the rear bench the appearance of two separate seats.
The new BMW 4 Series Coupe uses a combination of driver assistance systems and mobility services to increase, comfort and infotainment usage ease and convenience. These include a new generation BMW Navigation System, sharper graphics and 3D elements for the map display, full-colour BMW Head-Up Display, Driving Assistant Plus, intelligent glare-free LED High Beam Assistant, and BMW Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go.
Three different trim lines will be available on the 4 Series coupe including Luxury, Sport, and M Sport. The Sport package comes with gloss black accents, a sport-tuned suspension and 18-inch twin-spoke alloy wheels. The Luxury package includes chrome accents, leather seats and high-gloss wood trim. The M Sport package comes with an aerodynamic body kit, shadow line trim and 18-inch or optional 19-inch light alloy M-style wheels. Theres also a sports suspension, high-performance brakes and an M-spec interior.
Prices for the BMW 4 Series Coupe in South Africa have not yet been confirmed, however, the model will go on sale locally in October2013.