Is the 2024 BMW 4 Series the Best Luxury Coupe of 2023?
There is just something about a two-door BMW that is enticing, even one with the gopping face of the current BMW 4 Series. And once you look beyond that polarizing grille, the 2023 BMW 4 Series might just be the best luxury coupe in the game right now.
A model for every taste makes the 4 Series one of the best luxury coupes
Sure, the 2023 BMW 4 Series badge may not have the iconic lineage of the 3 Series but make no mistake – it’s cut from the same cloth. BMW’s decision to differentiate its two-door and four-door models shouldn’t be a factor in writing off what the 4 Series brings to the table.
Never mind that the 4 Series Gran Coupe does, in fact, have four doors. Its sloping roofline and short deck are enough to differentiate it from the 3 Series. It may be an odd choice, but it works.
Still, the 4 Series is also available as a traditional two-door coupe as well as a two-door convertible. Even better, the options don’t end there, making the best luxury coupe even better.
A range of performance options in the best luxury coupe from BMW
There are three powertrains available within the new 4 Series lineup, starting with the 430i. Here, a 2.0-liter BMW Twinpower turbocharged four-cylinder engine churns out 255 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. Both rear and all-wheel drive configurations are available as well, so there is a 430i for every climate.
Those seeking more adrenaline-pumping performance will appreciate the balance offered by the M440i. A turbocharged six-cylinder makes 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. And again, both rear and all-wheel drive are available.
Then there is the vaunted BMW M4. A twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six fires 473 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque through the rear wheels. In the M4 Competition, 503 ponies and 479 pound-feet of torque can go through either a rear-wheel or all-wheel drive system.
Finally, there is the all-electric BMW i4 Gran Coupe. Available with anywhere from 282 to 536 horsepower depending on the configuration, this BMW EV isn’t just fast. It’s a fun luxury coupe too.
Drawbacks of the BMW 4 Series
As good as the new 4 Series lineup is, the car as a whole isn’t without its faults. For starters, the standard kit is a bit bare next to the competition. Upcharging for items like heated seats and driver assistance tech seems shortsighted when Mercedes and Audi are tossing that stuff in for free.
Furthermore, despite the high price tag, no massaging seats are available anywhere in the 4 Series lineup. That isn’t a big deal for some, but if BMW is aiming for grand tourer status with the 4, luxury needs to take another step up.
Finally, there is the design. It’s been said too much to go into with any detail, but that wide-open maw is unsightly, and there is just no getting used to it, JD Power award or not.
Overall, the BMW 4 Series is a class-leader
Despite some setbacks, the latest mid-size BMW coupe is an enjoyable drive with plenty of comfort and tech. And while BMW has been lost in the weeds in the past few years, with the 4, it seems like things may be getting back on track.
