New 2018 BMW 4 Series REVIEW
Channel: Premium Cars
Date: 31/12/2017

It's been four years since the BMW 4 Series debuted. On average, a vehicle in this class goes seven to eight years before it's replaced, with a customary midcycle refresh right in the middle. Such is the case with the 2018 BMW 4 Series, a car that exemplifies the luxury sport coupe class. Amid formidable competition from recently redesigned rivals, the stakes are unusually high for this midcycle refresh.

Expectations were high, yet changes to this latest 4 Series are slight. As well as we know this model, identifying the updates is a difficult task. After spending plenty of time behind the wheel of the 2018 BMW 440i, however, we can confidently state that both the new Audi S5 and Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG have an edge over the 440i. That said, this BMW doesn't deserve to be crossed off your list yet — far from it.
When it comes to appearance, the 4 Series refresh barely moves the needle. Up front, there are new standard LED headlights with more angular accent lights and a slightly revised front apron (those horizontal air inlets under the bumper). New LED taillights, a revised rear apron and some new wheel designs round out the rest of the exterior changes. Inside, the most significant revisions include an available virtual instrument panel and tile-based infotainment interface. Subtle modifications to the steering wheel, dash stitching and trim finishes go largely unnoticed. BMW also retuned the suspension for improved handling and output on the 440i has been increased to 326 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque (an increase of only 6 hp and 2 lb-ft).

Otherwise, the 4 Series remains unchanged. You can choose between the coupe, a convertible and four-door Gran Coupe body styles, all of which are offered as either the four-cylinder 430i or the six-cylinder 440i. BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system is also available on all models. We focused primarily on the 440i coupe with standard feature highlights that include an automatic transmission (a manual is available at no cost), 18-inch wheels, a sunroof, auto-dimming mirrors, automatic climate control, power sport seats, SensaTec synthetic leather upholstery, a rearview camera and a premium Harman Kardon audio system.

Bundled options include the Premium package (heated front seats, a navigation system with traffic, emergency telematics and an updated instrument panel); the M Sport package (unique exterior aerodynamic and cosmetic elements, higher-performance tires, a sport suspension, a higher top speed and a sport steering wheel); the Track Handling package (upgraded brakes, an adaptive suspension and variable sport steering); and the Executive package (adaptive headlights, automatic high beams, a surround-view camera system, an automated parking system and a head-up display). Other add-ons include larger wheels, adaptive cruise control, Apple CarPlay, a wireless charging pad, additional leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel, blind-spot monitoring, forward collision mitigation and a lane departure warning system.

Pricing starts around $43,000 for the two-door 430i Coupe or the four-door Gran Coupe. The convertible costs about $7,000 more, while the 440i models start in the $50,000 range. Adding BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system will set you back another $2,000.