BMW 4 Series 2024 review
Photo: Damian B Oh (CC BY-SA 4.0), via Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The BMW 4 Series is the style-led coupe sibling of the 3 Series, swapping four doors for sweeping lines and an even more driver-focused character. The 2024 range is headed by the 420i M Sport, whose 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine delivers 184 PS through the excellent eight-speed Steptronic automatic. With rear-wheel drive as standard, it promises the classic BMW balance of pace and poise.
Inside, the BMW Curved Display dominates, merging a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with a large central touchscreen running iDrive 8. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and the cabin mixes driver-focused ergonomics with high-quality materials. M Sport trim brings sport seats, ambient lighting and distinctive styling, while the Driving Assistant package adds useful safety tech. Rear seats are usable for adults on shorter journeys, though headroom is tighter than in the 3 Series saloon.
On the road, the 4 Series is every inch a BMW. The steering is precise, the chassis beautifully balanced, and the 420i pulls strongly from low revs while returning over 40 mpg on a cruise. Rivals such as the Audi A5 and Mercedes CLE offer their own charms, but few coupes blend everyday usability with driving pleasure so completely. Strong residuals and a premium image complete a compelling package.
UK price from: £43,000
Specifications
| Engine | 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol (420i) |
| Power | 184 PS (135 kW) |
| 0-60 mph | 7.5 seconds |
| Top speed | 149 mph |
| Fuel economy | 42.2 mpg (WLTP combined) |
| CO2 | 151 g/km |
| Boot space | 440 litres |
| Length | 4768 mm |
| Transmission | 8-speed Steptronic automatic |
| Drive | Rear-wheel drive |
Features
- BMW Curved Display with 12.3-inch instruments and iDrive 8 touchscreen
- M Sport body styling with 18-inch M alloy wheels
- Adaptive M Sport suspension
- Heated front sport seats in Sensatec upholstery
- Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant
- Ambient interior lighting
- Front and rear parking sensors with reversing camera
- Driving Assistant with lane departure warning
Common parts & prices
| Part | Price (GBP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Front brake pads | £0 | M Sport fitment; bed in gently for the first 200 miles |
| Front brake discs (pair) | £0 | Vented; replace if a wear lip exceeds 1mm |
| Oil filter | £0 | Change with fully synthetic 0W-20 at each service |
| Engine air filter | £0 | Yearly change keeps the turbo breathing freely |
| Wiper blades (pair) | £0 | Aero flat blades; check for streaking each autumn |
| Spark plugs (set of 4) | £0 | Iridium plugs; typically due every 40,000 miles |
Pros
- Head-turning coupe styling with real presence
- Superb handling balance and precise steering
- Strong, smooth 2.0-litre turbo engines
- High-quality, driver-focused interior
Cons
- The large grille divides opinion
- Firm ride on M Sport suspension
- Limited rear headroom for tall adults
- Options quickly inflate the price
