The 2021 BMW 4 Series Is a Great Used Luxury Car If You Never Drive By a Mirror
BMW gets a lot of hate these days, and while it may not all be fair, it’s also not exactly wrong. And while the 2021 BMW 4 Series wasn’t the Genesis of these complaints, it was the catalyst for a new series of gripes. But is that hatred fair? Or do the 4 Series’ rather hideous styling choices overshadow an otherwise great used luxury car option?
Let’s get the looks out of the way
Let’s be honest, the G-Series BMW 4 Series cars had a lot to live up to. The F-Series designs were universally loved, from the tiny 2 Series through the sultry 8 Series. Even BMW SUVs looked good back in 2020. The next design had a tough act to follow.
However, nobody could have predicted the polarizing choice BMW made with the 2021 BMW 4 Series. Ditching the classic kidney grilles in favor of a pair of oversized, vertical nostrils got a ton of attention, though almost none of it was positive. Sure, the car got attention, but it was all focused on the gopping face. To this day, that criticism is fair. Unlike other ugly designs, the huge BMW grille trend hasn’t grown on most outside observers. But sales are good, so there must be more to it than its face, right?
The 2021 BMW 4 Series offers a truly well-rounded driving experience
We’re moving on. We’re not talking about those damn grilles anymore. Because once inside, even a used 2021 BMW 4 Series is worth the price of admission. The base car, a 2.0-liter BMW TwinPower turbocharged 430i, spits out 255 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. Rear-wheel drive models are lively but controllable, while xDrive offers added confidence for those in more snowy climates.
And the M440i? Well, let’s just say it’s not going to put anyone to sleep. The 3.0-liter inline-six turbo chucks out 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. That moves the luxury cruiser from zero to 60 mph in just a few ticks over four seconds, says Car and Driver. And once again, rear-wheel drive with the M Sport differential means you can have all the fun your talent will allow, and then some.
Luxury features in the 2021 BMW 4 Series
The 2021 4 Series offered a host of luxury touches, so a used version will keep you in plenty of comfort. Vernasca leather, heated and ventilated seats, and three-zone automatic climate control were all a part of the 4 Series formula.
In addition, the standard seats were 12-way adjustable, while M Sport seats were deeply bolstered with adjustable support to accommodate various body types. In addition, a tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel allows for a variety of driving positions to suit a range of tastes.
What to look for when shopping for a 2021 4 Series
Overall, the used BMW 4 Series market is quite affordable, though there are a few things to watch for. For one, ensure the water pump has been replaced if the car is near or over 60,000 miles. And for the M440i, look for leaking oil around the valve cover gasket or, at least, ensure it has been replaced before you get to it.
Both of these issues are relatively minor but will cost a few hundred dollars to fix yourself. And if they haven’t been done, discuss that with the seller and work out a lower price to account for the deferred maintenance.
Is a 2021 BMW 4 Series a good used luxury car?
In a word, yes. With all the spaciousness of a luxury sedan with the sleek styling of a coupe, the 2021 BMW 4 Series is an excellent used luxury car with a spicy side. Just don’t spend too much time looking at the front grille before you get in for a test drive.
