BMW has recently given the BMW 4 Series and the electric BMW i4 a comprehensive refresh. The i4 was the best-selling electric BMW globally in the previous year, with over 83,000 sales. It also became the top-selling M model in both 2022 and 2023 with its M50 xDrive variant.
To make the 4 Series and i4 stand out in the face of increasing competition from rivals like the Mercedes-Benz CLE and EQE, BMW has made several changes. These include subtle updates to the exterior, new technology additions, and interior enhancements.
The exterior changes consist of a new matt chrome kidney grille surround and silver mesh air intakes. Petrol-engined cars now feature larger exhausts with a diameter increased from 90mm to 100mm. The i4 also receives a similar update to its closed-off front grille, which now showcases a matt silver honeycomb pattern. Both cars in M Sport Specification are equipped with an updated gloss black rear diffuser.
The most noticeable changes can be found in the lights of the 4 Series and i4. The front and rear lights have been redesigned, providing a sharper look. Notably, the low and high beams are now generated from a single LED module.
Inside the vehicles, BMW has made significant changes. They have introduced a smaller gear selector similar to those found in other EVs like the iX1 and iX3 crossovers. Additionally, the climate control air vents have been reshaped, replacing the previous side-by-side airflow adjustment system with smaller rotary switches for a more minimalist style.
Both models come equipped with BMW’s iDrive 8.5 infotainment system, along with an updated steering wheel featuring illuminated buttons. The ICE 4 Series includes gearshift paddles as standard, while cars in M Sport specification receive a flat-bottomed steering wheel.
The new 4 Series will be available for sale starting in July, with a starting price of £43,830 RRP in the UK. Final on-the-road pricing is yet to be determined. On the other hand, the new i4 is expected to start at £50,365 RRP.
The 4 Series offers two specifications: the 420i with 181bhp and 48V mild hybrid assistance, and the range-topping M440i xDrive with a six-cylinder engine producing 368bhp and a 0-62mph acceleration time of 4.7 seconds.
The i4 comes in three specifications. The i4 eDrive35 offers 291bhp and a range of up to 311 miles. The mid-range i4 eDrive40 delivers 335bhp and extends the range to 373 miles. Lastly, the i4 M50 xDrive boasts an impressive 536bhp, 586lb ft of torque, a range of 324 miles, and accelerates from 0-62mph in just 3.9 seconds.
With these updates and improvements, the BMW 4 Series and i4 are poised to continue their success in the market by offering enhanced performance, innovative technology, and stylish design.