The current-generation 4 Series Coupe, built at the BMW Group Plant in Munich, was launched in September of 2013. BMW refreshed it for this year, focusing on the car’s dynamic abilities.
WHAT’S NEW
Several styling cues for the 4 Series came from BMW’s 2012 Concept Coupe. That’s evidenced by elements such as the hexagonally shaped full-LED headlights, large air intake with expressive bars and LED rear lights. The restyled nose expresses the model range’s dynamic overall persona. Crisp contours alternate with expansive surfaces creating a broad, sharply contoured front end of three-dimensional athleticism. A defining feature up front is the unbroken central air intake that increases in size towards its outer edges, lending a more imposing presence and greater sense of width.
Moving aft, bold horizontal lines and the linear design of the rear light clusters draw attention to the muscular wheel arches. The widest point of the body is level with the rear wheels. The new rear apron accentuates an impression of power. A crisp contour line mirrors the outline of the outer air intakes at the front of the car, integrating it into the overall design language.
COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE
The BMW 430i coupe’s interior features an array of upgraded details adding to the high-quality feel. The air outlets, the control panels in the doors, and the integral belt guides for its front seats now include electroplated finishes. The center console features high-gloss black cover panel, while double stitching on the instrument panel highlights the interior’s driver-focused geometry. The sports steering wheel is standard and features a new rim wrapped in high-quality leather. As a result, it feels gripper than before. Personal mobility is manageable through BMW Connected, a digital assistant app.
The latest 4 Series features new, convenience-enhancing features for the infotainment system. That includes a new user interface with six large tile-style icons distributed over two screen pages, allowing drivers to arrange tiles by personal preference.
My test 4- Series Coupe was a 430i with the six-speed manual transmission. BMW sets the base price at $43,300, which rose to a final total of $52,695. That came after adding for the ‘Snapper Rocks Blue’ metallic paint, Cognac leather interior, and wireless charging, for a start. Then there are the options packages.
There’s the Essentials Package, which adds keyless entry, Park Distance Control and a 1-year SiriusXM subscription. Then there’s the Premium Package, wherein you get a larger, high-resolution navigation system and the My BMW Remote perks, like Remote Door Unlock. On the sportier side, there’s the M Sport Package, where you get an aerodynamic kit, an M steering wheel, and black exterior trim. Apple Car Play compatibility is a $300 option.
PERFORMANCE
Power for the BMW 430i Coupe is provided by a 2.0-liter, twin-turbo four-cylinder engine that produces 248 horsepower at 5,800 RPM while also developing 258 lb-ft of torque in a range from 1,450-4,800 RPM. Selectable operational modes include Comfort, ECO Pro, Sport and Sport +.
The 2018 BMW 430i Coupe provides an exhilarating level of performance that’s sure to please enthusiasts. BMW engineers greatly enhanced the cars’ dynamic handling capabilities by revising the suspension. Now, it’s stiffer and features more advanced damping technology and an upgraded steering set-up.The end result? Noticeable improvements in the car’s handling characteristics. There’s less body roll and car feels more stable.
Acceleration comes instantly on demand with no noticeable turbo lag. Hauling the ponies to a halt also works impressively. Not only that, but the seats are highly supportive and adjustable for just the right feel when attacking challenging driving scenarios such as tight, twisting back roads.
TFLCAR’S TAKE
If there’s a shortcoming for the stylish 430i Coupe, it’s the back seat ingress and egress. Getting in is considerably easier than getting out. As with most coupes, headroom in the back can also be a squeeze for taller passengers
Despite that, the 430i Coupe does offer a sportier flavor than its 3 Series sedan counterpart, thanks to its sleeker coupe profile. If you’re shopping for a dynamic sports coupe, it’s certainly a positive way to go. The car-buying public at-large agrees, as the 4 Series is among the top three best-selling small luxury vehicles, with sales registering a 10.8 percent jump last year over 2016.
If you’re looking for a more track-focused 4 Series, check out our sneak peek at the limited edition 2019 M4 CS below:
SPECIFICATIONS: 2018 BMW 430i Coupe
| On Sale: | Now |
| Base MSRP: | $43,300 |
| Price as Tested: | $52,695 |
| Engine: | 2.0-liter, twin-turbocharged inline-four |
| Drivetrain (Layout): | Longitudinally mounted front engine, rear-wheel drive |
| Horsepower: | 248 hp @ 5,800 RPM |
| Torque: | 258 lb-ft @ 1,450 – 4,800 RPM |
| Transmission: | Six-speed manual |
| 0-60 Acceleration: | 5.6 seconds (est.) |
| Top Speed: | 130 MPH |
| Suspension: | Front: Two-joint spring strut axle Rear: 5-link |
| Brakes: | Power-assisted four-wheel discs |
| Tires: | Bridgestone Potenza S001 P225/45 R18 91V all-season |
| Fuel capacity: | 15.8 gallons |
| Fuel economy (EPA): | 21 City/33 Highway/25 Combined MPG |
Dimensions:
| Wheelbase: | 110.6 inches |
| Length: | 182.7 inches |
| Width: | 71.9 inches |
| Height: | 54.2 inches |
| Turning Circle: | 37.1 feet |
| Curb Weight: | 3,541 pounds |
