BMW has revealed its highly controversial second-generation 4 Series.
By far the most dramatic design in BMW’s 2020 product portfolio, the new 4 Series is comminated by its huge vertical grille. The brand’s classic kidney grille now extends from the bonnet shutline to nearly the bottom of the new car’s bumper.
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This new grille design gives the 4 Series a lot of presence and although it might rankle BMW traditionalists, credit must be given to the product team for executing such a daring vision.
Mechanically the new 4 Series is rides on the BMW CLAR vehicle architecture, which provides the option of both rear- and all-wheel drive. It also enables a traditional coupe configuration, with the engine mounted lengthways, instead of across.
The most notable engine options for new 4 Series, are its turbopetrols. Powering BMW’s 430i is a 2-litre four-cylinder, good for 190kW and 400Nm. Those outputs are adequate to give it a 0-100kph time of 5.5 seconds and 250kph top speed.
Drivers who require more power can opt for the M440i, which features a mild-hybrid powertrain. The M440i pairs a 3-itre inline six-cylinder engine, with 48-volt integrated starter motor technology. Combined peak power from this system totals 285kW, supported by 550Nm of torque. Unsurprisingly, this is a rather rapid coupe, capable of 0-100kph in 4.5 seconds.
Beyond the striking design and impressive turbocharged engines, the new 4 Series deliver a sweeping technology offering. The standard digital instrumentation display measures 5.1-inches, but can be upgraded to a larger 12.3-inch dynamic cockpit.
Other technology highlights include cloud-based SatNav and a new head-up driver’s display, which projects onto a 70% larger contrast surface. Smartphone convergence is wireless, catering for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Safety specification with the new 4 Series is strong. The coupe has a front collision warning and autonomous braking and side collision avoidance sensors.
The new 4 Series will become available to European and American buyers by October. South Africa scheduling is unconfirmed but could be by December or early in Q1 of 2021.
Feature image: BMW
