Audi might have their A, S, and RS lineups, and Mercedes-Benz may classify their models, but BMWs come in a series, like all good things. And like all German-made cars, expect to pay a bit more than you would for a Honda or Toyota.
All the same, there are quite a few upgrades and creature comforts you’ll enjoy in any BMW, despite the cost. BMW has a strong track record with the M-badged models. So, whether you’re looking for a convertible to cruise in, a stylish family sedan, or a two-door built for a pair, BMW has the right car — and series — for you.
If you’re interested in the M4, you’ll have to search elsewhere for any kind of specifications, but otherwise consider this article your go-to source for all things 4-Series in 2018. Read up on these facts before you stop by the dealership and test drive a 2018 BMW 4-Series.
Performance Specifications
All 2018 BMW 4-Series models — including the coupe, convertible, and Gran Coupe — are powered by either a 2.0-liter turbo inline-four cylinder or a 3.0-liter turbo inline-six cylinder. The smaller engines make 248 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, while the larger 3.0-liter engines achieve higher numbers at 320 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque.
Rear-wheel-drive is standard on all models, with all-wheel-drive as an upgradeable option. BMW marks their all-wheel-drive models using the “xDrive” badge. Powertrains on the 2018 4-Series are mated to an eight-speed automatic or an optional six-speed manual for those who want a little more control over their vehicle.
The 2018 BMW 4-Series can be purchased in the following colors: Alpine White, Jet Black, Black Sapphire Metallic, Melbourne Red Metallic, Glacier Silver Metallic, Imperial Blue Metallic, Mineral White Metallic, Mineral Grey Metallic, Sparkling Brown Metallic, Snapper Rocks Blue Metallic, and Sunset Orange Metallic.
Fuel Efficiency
Since there are so many combinations available for the 2018 BMW 4-Series, there are a correspondingly high amount of fuel efficiency ratings. For example, the 2.0-liter turbo inline-four gets 21 city and 33 highway EPA-estimated mpg for the manual, rear-wheel-drive coupe; 24 city and 34 highway mpg for the rear-wheel drive, automatic coupe, convertible, and Gran Coupe; 23 city and 33 highway mpg for the all-wheel drive coupe and Gran Coupe; and 22 city and 32 highway mpg for the all-wheel-drive convertible model. That’s just for the 2.0-liter.
Coupe models — rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive — equipped with the 3.0-liter turbo inline-six paired to a manual transmission obtain 19 city and 29 highway EPA-estimated mpg, while coupe and Gran Coupe automatic, rear-wheel-drive models achieve 21 city and 32 highway mpg. All-wheel-drive models of the coupe and Gran Coupe rank in at 21 city and 31 highway mpg. Finally, convertible rear-wheel-drive models come in just a tad higher than all-wheel-drive convertible models, at 21 city, 29 highway and 20 city, 29 highway mpg respectively.
Kelley Blue Book ranks the 2018 BMW 4-Series eighth on its efficiency list. Interestingly enough, ranked at fourth on that same list is the BMW 3-Series.
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Entertainment and Safety Features
The base model 2018 4-Series can be purchased for just over $40,000, with upgrades on the top-of-the-line model totaling over $80,000 for those looking to go all-out. The 4-Series comes in two models: the 430i and 440i.
The 430i comes with the 2.0-liter powertrain and rides on 18-inch wheels. LED headlights and fog lights, automatic wipers, cruise control, a rearview camera, and an optional sunroof are just some of the features that come standard on this model. Also included are a 6.5-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and a universal garage door opener.
With the 440i model, customers will receive keyless entry, remote start, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.
Here are just a few of the available packages for the 2018 BMW 4-Series:
- Simplicity Tier: With this upgrade, you’ll get navigation, Park Distance Control, a sunroof, and more.
- Convenience Tier: Keep warm in the winter with heated seats and stay safe on the road with Active Blind Spot Detection as well.
- Executive Tier: Automatic high-beams are just the tip of the iceberg with this package. Also included are Side and Top View Cameras, Parking Assistant, and Leather Dakota seats.
- Track Handling: The ultimate package for those looking to zoom around more than just drive to work. Get the M performance without paying M prices — sort of.
How the 2018 BMW 4-Series Stacks Up
Many of the websites that have test-driven the 2018 BMW 4-Series posted mixed reviews about the model. Though it ranks 18th in horsepower on Kelley Blue Book’s list, there are definitely other BMW models out there built for faster speeds and better handling. If you can spend a bit more, for models like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Cadillac’s ATS, you’ll certainly have a winning combination of speed and style.
All the same, the 4-Series is uniquely positioned to offer a strong package for the pricing. In fact, Edmunds recommends purchasing the 430i model because even though it has a bit less power than the 3.0-liter-powered 440i, you can spend less to get in the game and save more for goodies later down the road. Really, it’s all about what you’re willing to spend and on what types of features over others.
Consumer Reports does note that there is one recall already out for the 2018 BMW 4-Series, but customers should dig further and research before swearing off the 4-Series completely. Also, up for consideration are similar models, from the Mercedes-Benz C-class and Cadillac ATS to Audi’s A5 and A6 lines.
That’s speaking broadly, because with so many configurations, the BMW is able to compete with a number of models available in a handful of different segments. Convertible versions compete in one field, while coupe and four-door sedan variants are in another class completely. That’s quite a feat for one lineup (or series), so kudos, BMW.
Pros
- Average resale value
- Tons of available features and upgrades
- Optional manual gearbox
Cons
- Most safety features are optional/expensive
- Technology trails other manufacturers
- Half-hearted sports car
Customers can truly mix and match features to create their very own custom 4-Series BMW for 2018. Check out BMW’s website to learn more about the 2018 4-Series and see for yourself just how the car looks.
Is the 4-Series right for you? Test drive one today and find out!
Grzegorz Czapski / Shutterstock
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