2024 BMW 4-Series: Luxury, Style, and Performance 

The 2024 BMW 4-series coupe and convertible offer the same luxury as the 3-series sedan. However, they prioritize swoopy styling over practicality, with less rear seat room and cargo space than their four-door counterpart. The 4-series also features a different grille design than the 3-series, likely to help differentiate it from its three-box sibling, but the outcome is a polarizing love-it-or-hate-it design. The 4-series is offered in entry-level 430i and more powerful M440i trims, each with plenty of power. Unfortunately, neither exhibits the sharp handling characteristics we prefer from previous generations of BMW's entry-luxury cars. 

Although we consider the 3-series one of the best offerings in the segment, the 4-series models we've tested have yet to deliver as much driving enjoyment, leading us to believe there are more favorable two-door options amongst rivals, including the Audi A5. Even so, the 4-series' posh cabin and powerful turbocharged engines keep it in the hunt with the rest of the class. Those who prefer the coupe's styling to the sedan but still want four doors should consider the 4-series Gran Coupe, a model we review separately. 

What's New for 2024? 

The 2024 4-series has been updated with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment display. The new digital displays run the latest iDrive 8 software, which features updated graphics, menu structures, and an integrated voice-command function. All models also get a new toggle shifter on the center console. 

The Dynamic Duo of 4-Series Engines Redefining Driving Excellence 

The same two overachieving engines offered in the 3-series are available in the 4-series. A 255-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder powers models designated 430i. The M440i turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six is a silky-smooth power that gains assistance from a 48-volt hybrid system to make 382 horsepower. The 4-series provides a sporty driving experience courtesy of a retuned suspension, a more aggressive steering calibration, a wider rear track, and a lower center of gravity than the 3-series sedan. 

Still, we tested the M440i coupe and were less impressed with its driving character than its terrific inline-six. Apart from solid brakes that performed well in our 70-to-zero-mph test (149 feet), the Bimmer's distant steering and compliant ride didn't deliver the same satisfaction we got from the M340i sedan. During our test drive of an all-wheel drive 430i xDrive model, we noted decent power from the turbocharged four-cylinder but a similar complaint about the car's too-soft suspension.