When you think of two-door coupes, the BMW 4 Series comes to mind first as fun-to-drive, but it is not much in the way of a practical family ride. However, before you settle for a more conventional 3 Series sedan, check out the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe.
The Gran Coupe keeps the stylish and curvy lines of the 4 Series, but a bit of stretch allows the addition of two rear doors to make this a more user-friendly ride. In addition, the standard trunk from the coupe version is replaced with a useful hatchback design for added cargo space.
What also remains with the new version of the Gran Coupe is the larger twin grill design. An informal poll of onlookers was split about even on the like or dislike of the grill’s new style. I drove two versions of the new Gran Coupe and the Black 430i Gran Coupe tends to wear the larger grill better than other colors.
The sportier version M440 Gran Coupe looks quick when parked thanks to a lowered stance, blacked out trim, a larger rear spoiler and large exhaust outlets that say “fast.” The “M” badging contributes to its performance image too.
The BMW 430i Gran Coupe comes packing a 2.0L turbo four-cylinder engine that will satisfy most buyers. It’s punchy when needed and quiet and economical during the normal commute. If you dare to turn up the fun factor, choose the M440i Gran Coupe and take a big leap in performance. The power output jumps to a very healthy 382hp thanks to the turbo inline six-cylinder engine.
The character changes from the 430i to M440i for sure, with the latter willing to play more so make sure you watch your speed. Both versions are very good driver’s car. The 430i Gran Coupe standard RWD and four-cylinder engine feel very light and fun in corners. The heavier M440i version with xDrive AWD has much higher handling limits but you can tell it has some added weight up front.
No matter which BMW 4 Series you choose, a well-appointed and modern interior greets you when you get inside. The driver in either car has the latest Live Cockpit Pro, which replaces the normal gauges with virtual gauges and even a NAV screen in front of the driver. If you are looking at a new BMW or other new car today, you may have to go without some of the luxuries due to the chip shortage.
You might be manually moving your seat, but you will save yourself $995 at the same time. The Gran Coupe rear doors and larger rear seat space makes this a useful 4 Series for more than just two people, but the rear seat is very tight for three. Nevertheless, two people will fit more comfortably and the rear hatchback design swallows cargo.
Cost:
- 430i Gran Coupe – $45,200; as tested $56,300
- M440i xDrive Gran Coupe – $58,200; as tested $66,525
MPG: 430i Gran Coupe – 25MPG city; 34 MPG highway. I managed 27.8 mpg in 133 miles of mixed driving. M440i xDrive Gran Coupe – 22MPG city; 29MPG highway. I saw 23.9 mpg in 219 miles of mixed driving.
Safety: Active cruise control with braking function; dynamic stability control; active driving assistant pro with active blind spot detection; active park distance control & parking assistant plus; head-up display; Adaptive full LED lighting & auto high beams; surround view with 3D view; extended traffic jam assistant; drive recorder; front & rear head protection system.
Options:
- (M440i xDrive Gran coupe) $550 San Remo green metallic; $2,400 cooling and hp tire package; $1,700 drivers assistance pro package; $700 parking assistance package; $350 SensaTec dashboard; $875 Harmon Kardon surround sound; $995 destination charge.
- (430i Gran Coupe) $550 Black Sapphire metallic; $2,450 dynamic handling package; $1,450 Cognac Vernasca leather; $3,550 M Sport package; $400 shadowline package; $700 parking assistance package; $2,000 premium package; $995 destination charge.
Things to know: The BMW 430i and M440i xDrive Gran Coupe turn the 4 series into a more user-friendly car with the addition of rear doors and added space while retaining its sporty fun-to-drive nature.
Pros:
- Added doors and rear hatchback design make this a more useable with extra space
- Comfortable interior with large touchscreen and virtual instruments
- M440i has power to spare with velvety turbo in-line engine and a mild hybrid
Cons:
- New look might turn off some buyers
- M440i with xDrive AWD suffers in gas mileage
- Back seat is tight for adults
