2018 BMW 4-Series

Pros: Fantastic ride and handling balance; fine build quality; engines supply both good power and fuel economy; racetrack-ready performance in M4 models

Cons: Prices rise quickly with options; limited rear-seat space; many drivers find engine stop/start feature annoying

CG Says: The 2018 BMW 4-Series has revised front and rear styling. Also, there is stiffer suspension and revised steering. The 4-Series is a premium compact offered in coupe and retractable-hardtop convertible bodystyles. There is also a Gran Coupe that is a 4-door hatchback (see separate report). Both coupe and convertible seat four. The 430i is powered by a 248-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four cylinder. The 440i has a 320-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter six. Both engines offer the choice of a 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission. M4 is a high-performance version of the 4-Series available as a coupe or convertible. M4 has a 425-hp (444 with competition package) turbocharged 3.0-liter six mated to a 6-speed manual or 7-speed automated manual transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is available on 430i and 440i. Available features include collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot alert, lane-departure warning, surround-view camera, LED headlights, self-parking, and head-up instrument display. As with its 3-Series sedan siblings, the 4-Series’s ride and handling balance is outstanding, and its powertrains supply impressive power with surprisingly good fuel economy. Prices are steep, however… expect to pay a premium over a comparably equipped 3-Series models. The M4 coupe and convertible offer world-class, track-taming performance and sophistication, albeit at a stiff price premium.