Design and Features
The BMW 4 Series (F32/F33/F36) was a range of luxury grand tourers produced from 2013 to 2020. The model was designed as a coupé and convertible version of the 3 Series, but with sportier lines and a lower stance. The F32 chassis was used for the coupé models (428i, 435i, M4), while the F33 and F36 chasses were used for the convertible (427i) and Gran Coupé versions (420d, 430i).
The exterior design featured a long hood, short rear deck, and a sloping roofline that gave the car a sleek and aerodynamic appearance. The front grille was a larger, more aggressive version of the standard 3 Series model, with LED headlights and fog lights as standard on most trim levels.
Powertrains and Performance
The 4 Series came with a range of inline-6 petrol engines, including the B58B30 (435i) producing 300 horsepower, and the N55B30 (435i) generating 265 horsepower. A more powerful variant was the S55B30 M4 engine, which produced 425 horsepower in standard trim and up to 444 horsepower with the optional Competition package.
A range of inline-4 diesel engines were also available on certain markets, including the B47D20 producing 190 horsepower and the N47D20 producing 150 horsepower. A plug-in hybrid variant was also introduced in 2015, featuring a 2-litre engine paired with an electric motor for a total output of 252 horsepower.
Interior and Technology
The 4 Series featured a modern interior design with a range of materials available, including leather, Alcantara, and carbon fibre trim. The dashboard and centre console were dominated by BMW's iDrive infotainment system, which offered navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and smartphone integration as standard on most trim levels.
A range of advanced driver assistance systems were also available on the 4 Series, including Active Driving Assistant (which combined features such as lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control), parking sensors, and a rear-view camera.
Trim Levels and Options
The 4 Series was sold in several trim levels across different markets. These included:
- Sport Line: A sport-oriented package that added features such as a lowered ride height, unique exterior styling elements (e.g., black side sills, mirror caps), and interior trim pieces.
- M Sport Package: A more comprehensive upgrade that added items like 18-inch alloy wheels, suspension upgrades, and aerodynamic bodywork.
- Luxury Line: An upscale package that included features such as a premium leather-wrapped steering wheel, ambient lighting, and exclusive trim pieces.
Safety Features and Ratings
The 4 Series received generally positive safety ratings across the world's major markets. In the Euro NCAP crash test (2013), the car scored an impressive 5/5 in terms of adult occupant protection, while child occupant protection also earned a maximum rating of 5/5.
Rollover testing by the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) also yielded excellent results for the car's stability and protective qualities.
