By Otsile Kadiege

Back in June 2020, BMW unveiled the all-new 4 Series Coupe, followed by the convertible in 2021. These two models were marred by controversy thanks to their prominent snout setting the internet ablaze with mostly negative commentary. Fast forward a few years later, many are now used to the ‘awkward’ look while some think it’s a great looking vehicle. The German automaker has now unveiled the updated G22 and G23 (BMW code for Coupe and convertible) introducing a couple of exterior and interior design and styling updates, new body paint finishes, upgraded tech and newly designed wheels.

Striking looks

The facelifted BMW 4 Series sports a distinct modern look. Highlights include the controversial large kidney grille which has been redesigned with horizontal slats for the performance M440i derivative. Its flanked by newly designed standard LED headlights (Adaptive LED headlights are available as an optional extra). The M440i is fitted with M4 sourced side mirrors.

Both models are offered for the first time with three new 19-inch variants. The new M light-alloy wheels in double-spoke design can be ordered in either Jet Black or a bi-colour finish. And the new BMW Individual light-alloy wheels also have a Y-spoke design and are finished in Midnight Grey. At the rear, gets optional Laserlight taillights sourced from the M4 CSL.

The updated models are available with two solid and eight metallic paint finishes. Cape York Green metallic and Fire Red metallic are new additions to the range. A wide variety of BMW Individual paint finishes and BMW Individual special paint finishes are also offered.

Modern cabin

Inside, the facelifted BMW 4 Series range oozes modernity and sportiness thanks to standard sport seats (with red accents for the M440i), a revised instrument panel, optional CrystalClarity applications on the center console, a newly designed flat-bottom steering wheel with standard gearshift paddles, newly designed an illuminated air vents and a large Curved Display running on BMW’s operating system 8.5.

Driver assistance systems

The standard range of systems for automated driving and parking include front collision warning system with brake intervention, Cruise Control with brake function, Speed Limit Info with no-overtaking indicator, manual Speed Limit Assist and Lane Departure Warning with lane return. The standout optional extra is the Driving Assistant Professional package comprising the Steering and Lane Control Assistant, Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function, automatic Speed Limit Assist, route speed control and traffic light recognition.

Park Distance Control with sensors at both the front and rear is also part of standard specification. The Parking Assistant, likewise standard, enables automated manoeuvring into and out of parking spaces, as well as featuring a Reversing Assist Camera and the Reversing Assistant. There is also the option of the Parking Assistant Plus with Park View, Panorama View and Remote 3D View functions.

Performance

The line-up of powertrains for the updated BMW 4 Series range comprises petrol and diesel engines featuring BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and electrification in the form of 48V mild hybrid technology (adding an additional 8kW of power). All powerplants are paired with an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission as standard. 

Power and torque outputs range from 135kW and 300Nm for the 420i while the 420d develops 140kW and 400Nm. The mighty 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder M440i xDrive makes 285kW and 500Nm. It has an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h and BMW claims it will sprint from zero to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds.

Availability

BMW South Africa is yet to announce availability. However, knowing BMW, the updated models should be on our shores in a few months.