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BMW 4 Series — UK review

BMW 4 Series Review (2013–)

Coupe Style, Convertible Thrill, and Classic BMW Handling

BMW UK review Since 2013 By the True Motion Auto editorial team

Vehicle Overview

Vehicle SegmentCompact Luxury Coupe / Convertible
Body Style2-Door Coupe (F32) / 2-Door Convertible (F33)
Release Year2013
Trim/Variant Reviewed428i M Sport Coupe (also available: 420i, 435i, 440i)

Key Specifications (BMW 428i)

Engine2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (TwinPower Turbo)
Transmission6-Speed Manual / 8-Speed Automatic
Power Output240 hp @ 5,000 rpm
Torque350 Nm @ 1,250 rpm
DrivetrainRear-Wheel Drive (xDrive AWD optional)
Dimensions4,638 mm (L) × 1,825 mm (W) × 1,377 mm (H); Wheelbase: 2,810 mm
Weight~1,525–1,695 kg (Kerb)
Fuel Tank Capacity60 liters
Fuel Economy~6.4 L/100 km (combined, auto)

Boot Space

Coupe445 liters
Convertible370 liters (roof up)

Exterior Design

Longer, lower, and wider than the 3 Series Coupe it replaces

Sporty, flowing roofline with short rear overhang and muscular stance

Prominent kidney grille flanked by dual LED headlights (optional Xenons)

M Sport package adds aggressive bumpers, side skirts, and lowered suspension

Convertible features a three-piece retractable hardtop

Interior, Comfort & Materials

High-quality materials including leather, brushed aluminum, and optional wood trims

Driver-centric layout with intuitive controls and premium fit & finish

Comfortable and supportive sport seats; optional heated/ventilated front seats

Rear seats usable for adults on short trips; more room than in 2 Series

Excellent refinement and cabin insulation, especially in coupe

Features & Infotainment

Standard iDrive system with 6.5" display; optional 8.8" with navigation

BMW ConnectedDrive with Bluetooth, USB, and real-time traffic

Premium Harman Kardon surround sound (optional)

Heads-Up Display, reversing camera, front/rear parking sensors available

Convertible roof operation at speeds up to 18 km/h

Safety & Ratings

Standard Safety Features

ABS, DSC, multiple airbags, cornering brake control

ISOFIX anchor points in rear

Crash Test Ratings

Euro NCAP5 stars (for 3 Series platform, applies similarly)

Optional driver assistance systems

Lane departure warning, forward collision alert, blind spot detection, adaptive cruise

Driving Performance & Handling

428i does 0–100 km/h in ~5.8 seconds (auto); smooth and responsive acceleration

M Sport suspension improves agility without sacrificing comfort

Balanced 50:50 weight distribution and rear-wheel-drive dynamics

Sharp steering with solid road feedback

Convertible slightly heavier but retains poise and control

Fuel Efficiency / Range

Fuel Economy (Combined)~6.4–7.2 L/100 km (auto, depending on model)
Real-World Efficiency~7.5–8.5 L/100 km
Range per Tank~800–850 km under mixed driving

EfficientDynamics tech includes start-stop, brake regen, and eco driving modes

Practicality & Everyday Usability

Coupe has a 445-liter trunk, convertible slightly less with roof down

Split-folding rear seats expand cargo space

Wide-opening doors and decent cabin access

Convertible roof eats into boot space but adds versatility

Everyday usability with sporty flair—usable as a daily coupe

Warranty & Maintenance

Original Warranty (UK/EU)3 years / unlimited mileage

Maintenance

Oil changes~every 15,000 km or 12 months

CBS (Condition-Based Servicing) monitors brakes, filters, fluids

Common Costs

Run-flat tires = more expensive to replace

Turbocharged engines require quality oil and regular maintenance

On-Road Price & Value for Money

Original MSRP (UK)~£30,000–£42,000 depending on variant

Used Market (UK, 2024): £9,000–£22,000

Strong value for a luxury coupe with genuine performance and comfort

Lower trims offer great balance; 435i for enthusiasts

Comparison with Rivals (2013–2016)

ModelPower0–100 km/hBootPrice (2013)
BMW 428i Coupe240 hp5.8s445 L£32,500
Audi A5 2.0 TFSI225 hp6.4s455 L£31,000
Mercedes C-Class Coupe204 hp7.0s450 L£31,000
Lexus RC 300h220 hp8.1s340 L£35,000
BMW excels inDriving dynamics, balanced chassis, coupe practicality
A5 offersMore conservative styling, quattro AWD
MercedesSmoother ride, less engaging

Pros & Cons

Pros

Engaging rear-wheel drive performance

Elegant, sporty design

Comfortable and well-built interior

Practical enough for daily use

Strong engine options and efficiency

Cons

Rear seat tight for taller adults

Options can quickly increase price

Convertible heavier and pricier than coupe

Overall Rating

Rating★★★★☆ (4.5 / 5)

A refined, balanced, and engaging coupe or convertible—the ideal mix of style, performance, and everyday usability.

Final Verdict

The 2013 BMW 4 Series sets the benchmark for the modern luxury coupe. With classic BMW dynamics, upscale design, and daily practicality, it appeals to those wanting a stylish car that’s still a driver’s car. The convertible adds year-round open-air freedom, while still retaining the 4 Series’ GT comfort and agility.

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Pros & cons

Pros
  • Premium badge appeal and refined cabin ambience
  • Good fit for UK buyers who choose the right trim
  • Strong shortlist candidate when total costs are checked
Cons
  • Final value depends heavily on trim, options and finance price
  • Larger wheels can reduce ride comfort and raise tyre costs
  • Availability, standard equipment and pricing may vary during the year

Final verdict

True Motion Auto verdict

The BMW 4 Series is a credible option in the UK market if it matches your priorities. The smartest approach is to decide what matters most - comfort, space, efficiency, performance, image or technology - then compare the exact trim against two or three rivals on the same route and the same finance basis. Choose the version that feels easiest to live with, not simply the one with the longest equipment list.

Buyer checkpoints

Buyer checkpointTrue Motion Auto view
Best forDrivers wanting premium materials, image and comfort.
Body styleCar
Powertrain focusPetrol, diesel or hybrid depending on model year and trim
UK ownership noteCheck insurance group, VED, charging or fuel costs and service-plan pricing before buying.
VerdictWorth shortlisting if its size, running costs and equipment match your daily use.

Frequently asked questions

Is the BMW 4 Series good for UK roads?
Yes, provided the trim and wheel size suit your roads. Always test the car on rough urban surfaces as well as a faster road.
Should I buy new or used?
New can make sense with strong finance support and full warranty. Used can be better value if depreciation has already taken effect.
What should I check before ordering?
Check live UK pricing, standard equipment, insurance group, VED, servicing costs, delivery times and warranty terms.
Is it suitable for families?
That depends on rear-seat access, boot shape and child-seat fit. Test those items in person rather than relying only on figures.
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Specifications, prices and equipment were current at publication and vary by model year, trim and market. Verify final details with a franchised dealer before ordering. Read how we review cars and our editorial policy.