This 2021 BMW 4 Series Model Fumbles the Bag by Being Boring
The 2021 BMW 4 Series has certainly been the topic of many automotive discussions as of late. Usually, a BMW offering is impressive, with top-of-the-line performance and a touch of luxurious class. These cars are head-turners and road-huggers at their core. But this latest BMW 4 Series is getting mixed reviews. And some critics are calling this latest model a huge fumble and a complete bore. So is it really yawn-worthy, or are the reviews being a tad too harsh?
One review left the critics mostly unimpressed
Car and Driver took the 2021 BMW 4 Series for a spin, and as the critics do for many new models, offered a final review after the drive. The consensus is that this car is unimpressive, albeit “easy to like and hard to love.” The drive felt “disconnected and imprecise,” especially along bumpy and imperfect terrain.
The chassis seems to be better suited for a family crossover, not the upscale sportscar it underpins. The steering seems uninspiring as well. In a way, this BMW was kind of boring.
What the 2021 BMW 4 Series does right
There isn’t a quality issue with the 2021 BMW 4 Series. Rather, it’s more of a disappointment as BMW cars are often held to higher expectations. There is plenty to like about this premium sportscar, including its powerful engine. The 430i’s 2.0-liter inline-four tested in the Car and Driver review earned high marks for its capable 255 hp. And where other turbo four-cylinders run out of steam, the BMW 4 Series engine surges on for a super-fast ride.
Whether you opt for the 4 Series coupe or the convertible, you’ll likely also enjoy the great highway fuel economy and intuitive controls in the cabin. At its core, it’s still a BMW with a BMW personality.
An already controversial style
When MotorTrend drove the 2021 BMW 4 Series, they were happy to report that it drove better than it looks. And style has been a topic of conversation and headline for many reviews so far with this car. The controversial grille earned more thumbs-down than thumbs-up reviews. And Edmunds called it a bucktoothed design that might inspire a “heave in your stomach.” That’s a pretty harsh critique of a grille. But if you haven’t seen it in person, it may dissuade you from going any further with your new car purchase. The split grille is that prominent.
Is the 2021 BMW 4 Series a big yawn?
If you can see past the controversial grille design, you may be wondering if the 2021 BMW 4 Series is even worth a look. For some, it really only inspired a yawn and point to a fumble on the German automaker’s part to deliver an expected thrill behind the wheel. But looking beyond the negatives, there are tons of critics out there who applaud this sportscar’s engine and impeccably smooth ride. The 4 Series still beats with the heart of a BMW, and there’s no question, this car can scoot. To really know if it’s worth your time, you might just have to drive on for yourself. After all, when it’s time to buy, your opinion is the only one that matters.
It may be true that BMW fumbled big time with the 2021 BMW 4 Series. There seem to be more negatives and positives among the countless reviews and first drives out there. However, buried in those negatives are a few important positives that are worth noting. This car may have an ugly grille, lackluster steering, and a less-than-ideal chassis. But it’s still a premium car that wants to chomp up curves and turn heads. And it’s still a BMW capable of delivering a performance experience.
