2021 BMW 4-Series

Pros: Engines supply both good power and fuel economy; nicely balanced ride and handling; classy cabin; breathtaking performance of M4 models

Cons: Manual transmission only offered on base M4; controversial front-end styling; spendy options drive up bottom-line prices

CG Says: The BMW 4-Series coupe and convertible are redesigned for 2021, gaining 5.2 inches in overall length, along with more power, new technology features, and an in-your-face front-end styling treatment. The related BMW 3-Series sedan was redesigned for 2019, and the 2-doors now join it on the new platform (BMW is also readying a redesigned version of the 4-Series Gran Coupe, a 4-door hatchback sedan which is built on the same 3-Series/4-Series platform). The new 4-Series convertible swaps the security of a power-retractable hardtop for a conventional soft top that is lighter and takes up less trunk space. The base 430i’s turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder carries over, but gains seven horsepower for a total of 255. The M440i’s turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six gets a 48-volt mild-hybrid system and an increase of 62 horsepower, to 382 hp total. The high-performance M4 retains its turbo 3.0-liter six, but it’s now rated at 473 hp—a 48-hp bump over the previous M4’s base engine. The new M4 Competition model does even better—it’s rated at 503 hp. The base M4 offers a choice of a 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission; the 8-speed automatic is the sole transmission for the M4 Competition and all other 4-Series models. Rear-wheel drive is standard on 430i and M4; all-wheel drive is standard for M440i and is available for 430i coupe and M4 Competition (marking the first time an M4 model is available with all-wheel drive). Standard 4-Series safety features include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-keep assist, blind-spot alert, rear cross-traffic alert, rear-collision preparation, speed-limit information, and automatic high-beam headlights. Also available is adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and Extended Traffic Jam Assistant (which can steer and brake the car on certain highways at speeds up to 37 mph, provided the driver’s attention is on the road). Sporty coupes and convertibles aren’t as popular as they once were, but BMW remains committed to the segment. The nicely executed redesigned 4-Series lineup continues its tradition of fine all-around performance while adding new tech features and better overall refinement—even if the provocative new styling might turn off some shoppers.