View Photos of the 2021 BMW 4-series Prototype
BMW retunes and restyles the 4-series to give it a unique look and a sportier driving experience than the 3-series.
An early stint in 2021 BMW 4-series prototypes reveals that BMW has made a significant effort to further differentiate the sleeker coupe, convertible, and four-door models from the 3-series on which they're based. Read the full story here.
As with the current-generation 4-series, the redesigned 2021 lineup will consist of two-door coupe and convertible models plus a four-door Gran Coupe hatchback with a sloping roofline.
Powerplants for the 2021 4-series will mirror those of the 3-series, including a standard turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four and an optional turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six. The six, however, gains a 48-volt starter-generator that can chip in an additional 11 horsepower at low-rpm to improve engine response while the turbocharger spools up.
All 2021 4-series models in the United States are expected to feature a standard eight-speed automatic transmission.
While the prototypes that we drove were still wrapped with camouflage, the new 4-series's greatest departure from the 3-series is its bold, vertically oriented twin-kidney grille that is reminiscent of BMW's pre-war models.
For the 4-series convertible, BMW has ditched the previous version's folding metal hard top for a conventional fabric soft top.
BMW has tuned the 2021 4-series for a sportier driving experience versus the 3-series. Some of the 4's changes include front wheels that feature more negative camber, a 0.9-inch wider rear track, and additional chassis bracing up front.
Compared to the 3-series, the new 4-series also features more responsive steering, firmer damper tuning, and a subtle rear spoiler to reduce aerodynamic lift at speed.
Our brief prototype drive revealed that the 4-series's steering is ultra-precise and direct but has a more natural feel than before.
BMW claims that the 4-series coupe and Gran Coupe should weigh about the same as a comparable 3-series. The convertible should be substantially lighter than before thanks to its new soft top.
The primary competitors for the new 4-series will include the Audi A5 and S5, as well the Mercedes C- and E-class coupes.
2021 BMW 4-series coupe prototype
2021 BMW 4-series coupe prototype
2021 BMW 4-series coupe prototype
2021 BMW 4-series coupe prototype
2021 BMW 4-series coupe prototype
2021 BMW 4-series coupe prototype
2021 BMW 4-series coupe prototype
2021 BMW 4-series coupe prototype
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