What’s the Top BMW 4 Series in History?

Are you eyeing a BMW 4 Series car? Whether it’s the coupe, convertible, or liftback, the sleek cousin of the BMW 3 Series delivers the premium driving experience and ergonomics you expect from the German brand. Unveiled in 2013 and first produced in 2014, the BMW 4 Series blends stylish looks, athletic performance, and comfortable interior. Certain model years stand out when it comes to reliability, making them more popular with buyers.

Best BMW 4 Series Model Years

The following are the BMW 4 Series model years that we recommend:

2016 BMW 4 Series

Like earlier 1st-generation model years, the 2016 BMW 4 draws its DNA from the 6th-generation BMW 3 Series. That’s not bad since the long-running BMW 3 sedan enjoys an excellent reputation for comfort and looks.

The 2016 BMW 4 approaches the performance of a true sports car. At the same time, it remains comfortable and practical enough to serve as a daily driver or family car. The turbocharged engine options deliver more than enough power when you feel the need for speed while consuming less fuel than a pure sports car.

If you’re looking for features and luxury, the 2016 BMW 435i is for you. Standard keyless entry and ignition was a luxury back when it first appeared and has become a fairly common feature nowadays. Power front lumbar support helps keep you comfortable during long trips while you listen to your favorite radio station or music on the premium audio system. There’s also an available self-parking system capable of parallel and perpendicular parking.

Among the offered trims, the 2016 BMW M4 offers the best road performance and handling. It’s available in convertible and coupe body forms, and the hardtop convertible uses a folding design.

• Engine Specs: turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 (428i, 428i xDrive), turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 (435i, 435i xDrive), twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter I-6 (M4)
• Curb Weight: 3,610 to 3,775 lbs
• Power: 240 hp (2.0L I-4), 300 hp (3.0L I-6), 425 hp (twin 3.0L I-6)
• Torque: 255 lb-ft (2.0L I-4), 300 lb-ft (3.0L I-6)
• 0-60 mph: 4.7-5.7 s

2018 BMW 4 Series

While the 2017 model year refreshed the 1st generation, the 2018 BMW 4 received refinements. The suspension feels stiffer and the steering responds better. Slightly redesigned automatic LED headlights and fog lights adorn the front end. Meanwhile, the 2018 BMW 4’s rear also has redesigned tail lights.

The 2018 BMW 4 has an eight-speed automatic transmission. Its coupe trims have an option for a six-speed manual transmission. Another option is BMW’s patented xDrive system, which transforms the rear-drive vehicle into an all-wheel-drive machine.

The 430i is considered the standard version of the 2018 BMW 4. It’s still a premium vehicle, packing convenient features like power-folding heated mirrors, automatic-dim mirrors, selectable drive modes, and cruise control.

The pricier 440i has even more features and a more powerful engine that can leave most cars in the dust. It also receives a more rugged instrument-cluster display.

• Engine Specs: turbocharged 2.40-liter inline-4 (430i); turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 (440i)
• Curb Weight: 3,495 to 4,169 lbs
• Power: 248 hp (430i), 322 hp (440i)
• Torque: 258 lb-ft (430i), 332 lb-ft (440i)
• 0-60 mph: 4.6-5.6s

2019 BMW 4 Series

The 2019 BMW 4 includes more standard features and changes what each trim package offers. For example, getting lost is a thing of the past now that the previously optional navigation system has become standard-issue equipment.

Even though the two-door body styles get in the way of loading and unloading carry-ons in the 2019 BMW 5, the interior cargo space expands quite nicely when you fold the rear seats. Not only is the trunk spacious, but it also expands its storage capacity with versatile bins to keep things organized.

• Engine Specs: turbocharged 2.40-liter inline-4 (430i); turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 (440i)
• Curb Weight: 3,680 to 3,922 lbs
• Power: 248 hp (430i), 320 hp (440i)
• Torque: 258 lb-ft (430i), 33 lb-fit (440i)
• 0-60 mph: 4.7 s (4 Series 440i xDrive Gran Coupe Sedan 4D) to 5.6 s (4 Series 430i Gran Coupe Sedan 4D)

2021 BMW 4 Series

The 2021 BMW 4 Series starts the 2nd-generation of the beloved compact executive car. Just as the 1st-gen BMW 4 Series draws inspiration and parts from the 6th-gen BMW 3 Series, the new BMW 4 generation shares a similar relationship with the current 7th-gen BMW 3.

Compared to the more sedate BMW 3 sedan, the 2021 BMW 4 Series has a suspension tuned for performance and a sharply calibrated steering. Combined with a wider rear track and a lower center of gravity, it makes you feel like you’re driving the next best thing to a sports car.

The available body types for the 2021 BMW 4 Series are the G22 coupé, G23 convertible, and G26 5-door liftback, also called the Gran Coupé. The convertible comes with a folding hardtop, but a soft top option is also offered.

• Engine Specs: turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 (430i) and turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 with 48-volt hybrid system (M440i)
• Curb Weight: 3,578 to 3,977 lbs
• Power: 255 hp (430i) and 382 hp (M440i)
• Torque: 2985 lb-ft (430i) and 364 (M440i)
• 0-60 mph: 4.3 s (M440i) to 5.5 s (M540i)

Overall, the BMW 4 Series is a reliable model. As long as you don’t skip on maintenance, the 4 Series will continue to deliver the performance promised by BMW.

Second-generation model years like the 2021 BMW 4 are more costly to maintain because they pack more technological features. On the upside, their newer frames have accumulated less wear than older model years, especially in the used car category.