Real-world car advice, without the sales pitch Start Here About Trust Newsletter
BMW 4 Series — US review

BMW 4 Series Review (2020–)

Specs, Features, Pros & Verdict

BMW US review Since 2020 By the True Motion Auto editorial team

Vehicle Overview

SegmentCompact luxury coupé / convertible
Body Style2-door coupé and convertible
Model Year2020 (current generation, G22 Coupé / G23 Convertible / G26 Gran Coupé)
Trim Levels (U.S./UK)420i, 430i, M440i xDrive, M4 (separate performance model)

The BMW 4 Series is a sleek, driver-focused luxury coupé that blends performance and prestige. Sitting between the 3 Series sedan and 8 Series grand tourer, it delivers sharper handling, bold styling, and a more emotional driving experience.

Redesigned for 2020, the latest generation features a distinctive large kidney grille, stiffer chassis, advanced driver assistance tech, and a range of turbocharged petrol and diesel engines (plus mild-hybrid options). It competes directly with the Audi A5, Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupé, and Lexus RC.

Key Specifications

VariantEnginePower / Torque0–62 mphDrivetrainEconomy (WLTP)
420i2.0L Turbo I4184 hp / 300 Nm7.5 sRWD / AWD44–48 mpg
430i2.0L Turbo I4258 hp / 400 Nm5.8 sRWD / AWD41–45 mpg
M440i xDrive3.0L Turbo I6 (MHEV)374 hp / 500 Nm4.5 sAWD38–41 mpg
Transmission8-speed Steptronic automatic (manual discontinued in most markets)
Dimensions (L×W×H)187.9 × 72.9 × 54.6 in
Wheelbase112.2 in
Curb Weight1,570–1,800 kg
Boot Space440 L (Coupé) / 385 L (Convertible)

Exterior Design

The 4 Series makes a bold statement with its upright vertical kidney grille, slim LED headlights, and sculpted bonnet. It’s sportier and more aggressive than the 3 Series sedan it’s based on.

Long doors, frameless windows, and a wide stance emphasize its coupé proportions. The M Sport trim adds aerodynamic styling, gloss-black accents, and 18–19” wheels.

The Convertible (G23) features a sleek soft-top roof that opens in just 18 seconds, saving weight compared to the previous hardtop.

Interior, Comfort & Materials

Inside, the 4 Series mirrors BMW’s latest design philosophy — minimalist yet premium. The driver-focused cockpit, excellent materials, and solid ergonomics create a high-end feel.

Front seats are low-slung and supportive, ideal for spirited driving, while rear seats are usable for short trips. Materials range from Vernasca leather to Sensatec upholstery, with aluminum or wood trim options.

Noise insulation is impressive, particularly on the coupé, while the convertible adds wind deflectors and acoustic lining for comfort on open-top drives.

Features & Infotainment

10.25-inch iDrive 7/8 infotainment system (depending on model year)

12.3-inch digital instrument cluster

Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto

BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant (voice control)

Harman Kardon surround sound (optional)

Head-Up Display

Wireless phone charging & multiple USB-C ports

3-zone automatic climate control

Heated & ventilated seats (optional)

BMW’s iDrive remains one of the most responsive and intuitive systems in the segment, blending physical controls with a crisp touchscreen.

Safety & Ratings

Euro NCAP★★★★★ (5 Stars, 2020 3 Series platform rating)

Safety & Assistance Systems

Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go

Lane Keep Assist & Lane Departure Warning

Forward Collision Warning with Auto Braking

Blind-Spot Monitoring & Rear Cross-Traffic Alert

Parking Assistant Plus with 360° Camera

Traffic Sign Recognition

Automatic Emergency Braking

Driving Performance & Handling

The BMW 4 Series stays true to its sporty heritage. The chassis tuning is firmer than the 3 Series, offering sharper cornering and excellent body control.

The 430i feels brisk, while the M440i xDrive transforms it into a junior grand tourer — powered by a silky-smooth inline-six with 48V mild-hybrid tech.

Steering feedback is precise, and the adaptive M suspension provides a perfect balance of ride comfort and responsiveness. The xDrive system ensures stability in all conditions, while RWD models deliver classic BMW balance.

Fuel Efficiency

420i: 44–48 mpg (UK) / 35–38 mpg (U.S. equivalent)

430i: 41–45 mpg

M440i38–41 mpg (mild hybrid)

The mild-hybrid system on six-cylinder models assists coasting and regeneration, improving real-world economy.

Practicality & Everyday Usability

Coupé: 440L boot (similar to a compact sedan)

Convertible385L boot (roof up) / 300L (roof down)

40/20/40 split-folding rear seats

Easy access with wide doors and frameless glass

Decent visibility for a coupé; parking sensors standard

The 4 Series combines sporting appeal with genuine usability — ideal for commuters who crave a performance edge.

Warranty & Maintenance

Warranty3 years / unlimited mileage (UK) or 4 years / 50,000 miles (U.S.)
Service PackagesBMW Service Inclusive available (up to 5 years)
Roadside AssistanceStandard with warranty period

Price & Value for Money

Starting Price (2024)

420i Sport — £43,500 / $48,300

430i M Sport — £47,500 / $52,200

M440i xDrive — £58,000 / $64,200

Convertible variants+£5,000 / +$6,000

The 4 Series offers excellent performance and interior quality for the money — undercutting many rivals while delivering genuine driving excitement.

Comparison with Rivals

ModelPower (hp)Drivetrain0–62 mphStarting Price
BMW 430i258RWD5.8 s£47,500
Audi A5 45 TFSI265AWD5.5 s£47,000
Mercedes C300 Coupé255RWD6.0 s£48,000
Lexus RC 350311RWD6.3 s£49,500

The 4 Series leads on driving dynamics and chassis feel, though the Audi A5 offers slightly more refinement and all-weather grip.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Engaging, balanced handling

Premium interior and intuitive tech

Wide choice of powertrains

Comfortable long-distance GT ability

Convertible offers refined open-air luxury

Cons

Bold grille design polarizing for some

Rear seats tight for tall passengers

Options can make pricing steep

Overall Rating

4.7 / 5 Stars – A refined, dynamic, and luxurious coupé that perfectly balances performance and sophistication.

Final Verdict

The BMW 4 Series blends BMW’s iconic driving dynamics with everyday comfort and premium craftsmanship. It’s more expressive and focused than the 3 Series sedan, yet practical enough for daily use.

Whether you choose the smooth 430i or the thrilling M440i, the 4 Series offers genuine excitement behind the wheel, backed by timeless coupe style and cutting-edge technology.

Affiliate & Monetization CTA

Lease or Finance BMW 4 Series → [Leasing Partner Link]

Compare Luxury Coupe Loans → [Finance Partner Link]

Get BMW 4 Series Insurance Quote → [Insurance Partner Link]

Explore BMW Accessories & Service Plans → [Accessory Store Link]

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.