Review
BMW 4 Series Convertible
A few months ago, BMW presented the updated BMW 4 Series, which consists of a Convertible, a Coupé and a Gran Coupé. The innovation lies, among other things, in the design and a new suspension. From now on you can also optionally equip the 4 Series with a digital instrument cluster. We were introduced to the new 4 Series Convertible through a test drive with the 420i.
Sporty appearance
The new 4 Series got an even sportier and dynamic look compared to the previous generation. For example, the xenon lamps were replaced by modernized LED headlights. You get LED fog lights at the front as standard and LED taillights at the rear as well. We also find modified air intakes and a new rear apron.
There are also 2 new very vibrant exterior colors available, designed exclusively for the new 4 Series: Snapper Rocks Blue and Sunset Orange. One new wheel has also been developed for each of the different equipment versions (Advantage, Sport, Luxury and M Sport).
Our test car was equipped with a stylish blue leather interior ‘Dakota Nachtblau’. In combination with the exterior color glacier silver and the large rims gave our 420i an elegant appearance (see video).
Digital instrument cluster
Optional you can now also choose one multifunctional instrument display (400 euros). This is in Black-Panel technology and with a 5.8″ screen diagonal. There are 3 different display options depending on which driving mode you are in: ECO PRO, COMFORT and SPORT. In COMFORT the image looks similar to the analogue instrument cluster. In SPORT it is mainly the red colors that stand out and the clearly readable speed indicator. In ECO PRO mode, the digital instrument cluster looks predominantly blue.
Motorizations
The 4 Series Convertible is available in different variants. Our test car was the entry-level, the 420i. You can choose this with a manual gearbox (46,250 euros) or with a Steptronic automatic transmission (48,540 euros). Under the hood is a four-cylinder with a capacity of 1,998 cc. The power is a smooth 184 hp and 270 Nm of torque. This convertible goes from 8.2 seconds to 100 km/h and the top speed is 230 km/h. On paper these are not particularly sporty values, but in practice the 420i does feel smooth and fast. The soundtrack that comes from the exhaust also sounds nice and sporty. We have no complaints about the 8-speed Steptronic sports gearbox. It shifts smoothly and smoothly and is always in the right gear.
In addition, the petrol range also offers a choice between a 430i with 252 hp (from 52,100 euros) and a 440i with 326 hp (from 64,650 euros). The 420d with 190 hp is the entry-level model in the diesel range. There is also a 425d with 224 hp, a 430d with 258 hp and a 435d with 313 hp. The prices are between 49,650 and 66,350 euros.
Convertible
The convertible version of the BMW 4 Series has a retractable hardtop with good insulation in terms of noise and temperature. With the roof down, the car looks stylish and elegant and has the appearance of a ship deck. In terms of safety, there is a rollover protection system in the rear headrests. In the event of a rollover, this provides extra safety and significantly protects the occupants’ heads.
For extra comfort, you can also optionally opt for a windshield (400 euros). This ensures that there is less draft on the shoulders and neck, even at higher speeds. If you don’t need the windshield, you can store it in the luggage compartment.
Another nice option for the convertible is the neck warmer (410 euros), which is built into the front seats. This provides warmth around the head and shoulders. If you drive with an open roof, the air flow system will take into account, among other things, the speed and the outside temperature. In addition, driver and passenger can individually choose one of three temperature settings. When the roof is closed, you can also choose from those three settings, but then the system does not take speed and outside temperature into account. With this option you can also continue to use the convertible when it gets colder, for example.
Conclusion
The new BMW 4 Series Convertible has become a stylish and elegant appearance with a beautiful finish and high usability, even in less favorable weather conditions. In our opinion, the digital instrument cluster is certainly an option worth considering.
Additional images interior and exterior:
Johan De Haes
Test driver
