BMW'S GOT YOUR NUMBER (some text hidden)

By Jonathan Crouch

BMW's 4 Series Coupe takes a more aggressive stance in second generation form. Jonathan Crouch takes a look.

Ten Second Reviewword count: 42

BMW's second generation 4 Series Coupe is now much more its own model, with a distinctive look and a more sporting dynamic feel. It's also a little bigger, a little faster and a little cleverer. For brand enthusiasts, there's plenty to like.

Backgroundword count: 121

The BMW 4 Series Coupe. It's just a two-door version of the Munich maker's 3 Series model isn't it? Used to be. Isn't now. Yes of course, the second generation 4 Series Coupe we look at here shares its technology and engines with the '3'. But visually and in character, it's now been differentiated from its more common showroom stablemate in a way that its predecessor never was. BMW says this MK2 4 Series Coupe handles quite differently from a '3' as well, even a sporty one. But as before, it sizes up to the same two segment arch-rivals, Audi's A5 Coupe and the Mercedes C-Class Coupe. And, also as before, it's additionally available in Convertible and four-door Gran Coupe forms.

Driving Experienceword count: 229

BMW claims the differences with this MK2 4 Series Coupe are more than skin deep and will be equally evident in terms of drive dynamics. The chassis has been extensively tweaked over that of the 3 Series and there's a wider rear track that gives this car a 21mm lower centre of gravity than its showroom stablemate. Plus as usual, there's rear wheel drive (and optional xDrive 4WD) and classic 50:50 weight distribution. And that's just the start. The body and suspension mountings are stiffer and on standard suspension, this '4' rides 10mm lower than a '3'. There are firmer springs and anti-roll bars and clever lift-related dampers reduce body movement and sharpen corner turn in. Plus there's a freshly developed double-jointed spring-strut front suspension and a 5-link rear axle. Engine-wise, the key news is introduction of 48V mild hybrid tech for the 2.0-litre 184hp diesel engine in the volume 420d. The same mild hybrid tech also features with the six cylinder diesels, the 430d (286hp) and the M440d (340hp). And it's on the quickest conventional petrol variant too, the six cylinder 374hp M440i xDrive. A flagship M4 model will follow. Two conventional 2.0-litre petrol turbo versions also feature, the 420i (184hp) and the 430i (258hp). All the engines link up as standard with eight-speed Steptronic auto transmission, which can now be specified with a new optional Sprint function.

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