Super clean BMW with all the extra.Whether cruising in the swanky convertible or raising hell in the racy coupe, the two-door BMW 4-Series exemplifies the luxury sports coupe. Based on BMW's venerable 3-Series sedan, both body styles are available with an overachieving 248-hp turbocharged four-cylinder (430i) or a dynamic 320-hp turbocharged inline-six (440i). The convertible has a folding hardtop, which enhances interior quietness and makes it snug in cold-weather months. The 4-Series is expensively tailored, and its driver-centric interior also has the largest back seat in its class. A highly capable chassis seamlessly transitions between relaxed and athletic.The 2019 4-Series adds some new standard features and revised package content and pricing. Every model now has navigation with real-time traffic information and a one-year subscription to Apple CarPlay. The M Sport package is now more expensive because it includes the Convenience package. Likewise, the Executive package costs more with the addition of Dakota leather. We've also spied photos of what appears to be the next-generation 4-Series in convertible form, which dons a soft-top versus the current heavy folding hard top. The upcoming 4 will also be based on the all-new 3-Series' platform when it debuts later this year as a 2021 model.Choosing the coupe or convertible can be a conundrum. We prefer the 440i coupe with the potent turbo-six. Those interested in all-wheel drive can have it for $2000. The Essentials package is standard and features keyless entry, front and rear parking sensors, and a one-year SiriusXM satellite radio subscription. We'd also add the M Sport package, which includes the M sport suspension, an aerodynamic kit, 18-inch M Star-Spoke wheels, and more.The 430i is powered by a zesty 248-hp turbo four-cylinder, while the 440i boasts a 320-hp turbocharged inline-six that lives up to BMW's reputation as a company that makes great engines. Rear-wheel drive is standard, but all models can be equipped with all-wheel drive. Both engines provide more than enough forward thrust to keep things interesting. The 440i coupe we tested doesn't make a scene accelerating, even though it went from zero to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds, quicker than any rival. While an eight-speed automatic transmission is standard, a six-speed manual transmission is available on certain models. |
