This time we neither tested an electric vehicle nor a plug-in hybrid. We explored the all-new BMW 4 Series Coupé, more precisely the M440i xDrive Coupé powered by a 275 kW/374 hp six-cylinder in-line petrol engine. You can already guess how sporty and dynamic the driving experience has been, can’t you? With the new 4 Series Coupé, BMW’s aim was to redefine the essence of driving pleasure in the premium midsize segment and to set itself apart from the latest BMW 3 Series Sedan – we can confirm that it has been more than successful.

The extrem sportiness of the new BMW 4 Series Coupé is also reflected in the exterior design. Elegance and dynamic are perfectly combined. The precisely drawn lines and the clear and generous surface design accentuate the sportiness and the pure driving pleasure from any perspective. The short overhangs, the slender pillars, the long doors with frameless windows, the slim window graphic and a flowing roofline underline the elegant appearance. The vehicle is characterised by its expressive kidney grille. Opinions differ here – nonetheless we like the dominant design standing confidently at its centre of the vehicle front. The spotlights are quite narrow yet appear very present. 18-inch M light-alloy wheels are involved in the standard equipment of the new BMW M440i xDrive Coupé. Carbon elements as seen on the door mirror are optional.

As we are used to from BMW, the interior design puts the premium ambience in a nutshell and adds to the character of the coupé. Everything is neatly arranged and clearly designed, high-quality materials are being used and the cockpit is driver-focused. Sports seats and a newly designed sports leather steering wheel come as standard. As the roofline has been lowered, the seating has also moved down bringing an even more sportier feeling. To be precise, 57 millimetres lower than the new BMW 3 Series Sedan. The lower seating position in the M440i's standard sports seats, framed by the door and high centre console accordingly create a sporty atmosphere. The high-quality control panel on the centre console integrates now the start/stop button for the engine. The vehicle is equipped with premium levels of connectivity, digital services and assistance systems such as Driving Assistant Professional, BMW Live Cockpit Professional, Parking Assistant, Intelligent Personal Assistant.

Another great feature is the mild hybrid technology, the new BMW M440i xDrive Coupé is equipped with. By the use of a powerful 48-volt starter-generator and an additional battery, significantly more braking energy can be regenerated and stored. This energy is available both to supply the electrical system and to relieve and support the combustion engine. The starter-generator produces an electric boost effect that instantly puts an additional 8 kW/11 hp on tap that increases the dynamics when starting off and accelerating. Besides it optimises the efficiency by assisting the combustion engine while driving at a constant speed and improves comfort when the Auto Start Stop and coasting functions are in use. 

Conclusion: The new BMW M440i xDrive Coupé convinces with its extrem sportiness and unique driving dynamics. Thanks to the mild hybrid technology, the vehicle remains relatively economical at a speedy ride. The new BMW 4 Series Coupé is more distinctive and sportier than ever. Thus BMW perfectly managed to clearly distinguish the design of the 4 Series Coupé from the new 3 Series Sedan.

Pictures: BMW for ellectric
Text: Britta Reineke