Car of the Year Awards 2021: Coupé of the Year
The BMW 4 Series used to be a swoopier, less practical and yet more expensive version of the 3 Series executive saloon. Good as it was, it could leave you with a sense that you were paying more for a lesser derivative. Not so with the new 4 Series. Yes, the looks are divisive. But if you like the aggressive styling, you’ll love what’s underneath.
Compared with the 3 Series, the 4 Series gets a wider rear end, stiffer chassis and lower centre of gravity, helping to make this one of the most rewarding driver’s cars in the class, and significantly better than direct rivals such as the Audi A5 and Mercedes C-Class Coupé. With the M Sport Pro Package’s adaptive suspension, it’s also comfortable enough to ease through a weary commute, while remaining alert and fun to drive. And while the entry-level 420i model needs to be revved, that’s in keeping with the character of a sporty coupé.
The interior, too, is ideal for any mood, with supportive seats that give a great view of the user-friendly infotainment screen. It’s a perfectly balanced take on the dual nature that makes for a world-class sports coupé.
We like
> Rewarding handling
> No longer so derivative of 3 Series
> High-quality interior
> Composed ride
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