BMW 4 Series

Model Overview

The BMW 4 Series is a mid-size luxury coupe from the BMW Group, first introduced in 2013 with the first-generation (F32) as an independent model spun off from the BMW 3 Series Coupe. As a hallmark of BMW's athletic design language, the 4 Series is offered in three body styles: Coupe (two-door), Gran Coupe (four-door), and Convertible. In the domestic market, the 4 Series is sold as a fully imported (CBU) model. On 17 April 2026, the 2026 BMW 4 Series lineup was officially launched with 9 variants, priced between RM348,000 and RM518,000. Both the Coupe and Gran Coupe share an indicative retail price range of RM348,000 to RM418,000, while the Convertible commands between RM448,000 and RM518,000. Primary rivals include segment contenders such as the Audi A5 and Mercedes-Benz CLE. Since the debut of the current generation in 2020, cumulative global sales for the BMW 4 Series have approached 400,000 units.

Design Language

The 2026 BMW 4 Series retains its signature design language. The front end is dominated by an oversized kidney grille with a mesh-style dot-matrix pattern, delivering unmistakable road presence. The darkened headlamp clusters integrate projector lenses and angular daytime running lights (DRLs); higher-spec variants gain upgraded Adaptive LED Headlights and Laser taillights. The front bumper features an aggressive three-section apron flanked by large side air curtains sculpted with aerodynamic air blades for an enhanced athletic stance. Along the flanks, the profile showcases a sleek fastback silhouette, complemented by frameless doors on both two-door and four-door versions. Rounding off the rear are tinted LED taillights, an integrated ducktail boot spoiler, and a dual exhaust outlet layout.

In terms of dimensions, the Coupe/Convertible measures 4,773 mm (4,770 mm for the Convertible) in length, 1,852 mm in width, and 1,395 mm (1,396 mm for the Convertible) in height; the Gran Coupe extends to 4,788 mm in length with a height of 1,452 mm. Wheelbase-wise, the Coupe and Convertible sit at 2,851 mm, while the Gran Coupe measures 2,856 mm. The entire range comes standard with 7 BMW Individual special paint finishes. The 2026 Special Edition adds two bespoke exterior colours: Frozen Purple and Anglesey Green, with the latter inspired by the renowned British racing circuit of the same name.

Inside, the 2026 4 Series adopts the brand's latest cabin architecture, highlighted by a floating curved display that integrates a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch central touchscreen. Running on BMW Operating System 8.5, the interface introduces a streamlined "Zero-Layer" menu layout. The Special Edition comes standard with carbon-fibre interior trim and M tricolour seat belts.

Powertrain and Performance

The 2026 BMW 4 Series is powered across the range by the B48 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four petrol engine, paired with a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission in a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout. It is offered in two states of tune:

• 425i (Standard Output) : Maximum power of 135 kW (184 hp) , peak torque of 300 Nm.

• 430i (High Output) : Maximum power of 180 kW (245 hp) , peak torque of 400 Nm.

In terms of official acceleration figures, the 425i completes the 0-100 km/h sprint in approximately 7.9 seconds, while the 430i clocks it in 5.9 seconds. Top speed is electronically capped at 250 km/h for both. Combined fuel consumption on the WLTC cycle stands at around 7.1 L/100 km. 5G connectivity comes standard across all variants.

Chassis and Handling

Chassis dynamics remain a standout strength of the BMW 4 Series. The car utilises a double-joint spring-strut front axle paired with a multi-link independent rear suspension. The entire lineup comes standard with the ARB traction control system and a flexible rear subframe mounting. The Special Edition is further equipped with M Sport suspension and Variable Sport Steering. The chassis setup leans towards a sporty feel, delivering exceptional body roll control in corners. Media reviews note that the 4 Series offers sharp chassis response and seamless front-to-rear tracking cohesion, providing a driving character noticeably sharper than the long-wheelbase 3 Series. The suspension absorbs medium-to-large road imperfections without harshness while retaining rich road feedback.

Cockpit and Equipment

On the smart cockpit front, the 2026 BMW 4 Series comes standard across the range with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 in-car chipset. Powered by the iDrive system, it supports continuous voice recognition and over-the-air (OTA) updates. Parking Assistant Plus (including a 360-degree surround-view camera) is fitted as standard. Aside from the base variant, a full-colour Head-Up Display (HUD) is standard across the lineup. The Special Edition also comes standard with tricolour striped seat belts and carbon-fibre interior trim.

For comfort amenities, the 2026 range features standard heated front seats, front power lumbar support, and keyless entry with push-start ignition. Automatic climate control with rear air vents is standard across all variants. In terms of boot capacity, the Gran Coupe in its standard layout easily accommodates daily cargo needs.

Safety and Driver Assistance

On the safety front, the 2026 BMW 4 Series comes standard across the range with a tyre pressure monitoring system, front and rear parking sensors, and a 360-degree surround-view camera. Driving Assistant and Active Cruise Control are fitted as standard. For active driver aids, the entire range achieves Level 2 semi-autonomous driving capability, covering full-speed adaptive cruise control, Lane Keeping Assist, and Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB). Passive safety includes driver and front passenger airbags, front side airbags, and full-length curtain airbags. The vehicle is backed by a 3-year or 100,000 km warranty.

Market Performance and Verdict

The BMW 4 Series has experienced some shifts in the Chinese market. Having seen dealer markups during its initial launch phase, the model now benefits from substantial showroom discounts. In 2023, the BMW 4 Series firmly led sales in its segment in China. As an individualistic coupe, its overall sales volume naturally trails the mainstream 3 Series, but it has carved out a distinct brand appeal through its athletic design and driving dynamics. The 2026 model has further sharpened its market edge via a "more kit for less" strategy—featuring noticeable price reductions alongside an enriched standard equipment list across all variants.

Media verdicts highlight that the core appeal of the 4 Series lies in its striking coupe silhouette, head-turning presence courtesy of frameless doors and a sleek fastback roofline, as well as BMW's signature rear-wheel-drive handling precision. On the other hand, rear cabin space in the two-door version remains snug, offering less everyday practicality than a four-door sedan; meanwhile, the minimalist cabin layout presents a mild contrast against the aggressive exterior styling. Nonetheless, as the quintessential embodiment of BMW's sporty styling and driving engagement, the 4 Series continues to hold a solid and distinctive position in the premium lifestyle coupe segment.