2014 BMW 428i: Impressions and Conclusions

Like a useless thing BMW is throwing away one of its most popular models. The sporty and practical 3 Series Coupe is no longer alive. Nevertheless, automaker is substituting it with something very special… the fresh 2014 4 Series.

Numerically 4 is bigger than 3 so it must be better, right? Definitely! Slightly bigger than the outgoing 3 Series coupe the vehicle is equipped with a wider track, a longer wheelbase and a lower ride height. These vital changes provide it the lowest center of gravity of any current BMW. It also has marvelous 50:50 weight distribution, another BMW hallmark.

This is the 428i unit, sort of the base vehicle in the lineup. It’s enhanced by the automaker’s special 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder motor. It provides 240 horsepower and can hit 60 miles an hour in a fleet-footed  5.7 sec.

For more power a 3.0-liter turbocharged straight 6 is also available in the 435i. Is a vehicle true BMW if it doesn’t have an inline 6? That’s up to you. Announced output is 300 ponies with an equal amount of torque.

Moreover, both motors are available with either an 8-speed automatic transmission or a proper manual with 6 gears. Believe it or not the stick is a no-cost option. Furthermore, both cars are available with rear- or the automaker’s xDrive all-wheel drive system.

There’s lots of good stuff with the fresh 4 Series and you’re probably thinking about pricing. An entry-level 428i starts about $42,000 while the more powerful 435i is approximately 47,000 bucks. Naturally models with xDrive cost a little bit more. Look for the thrilling fresh BMW 4 Series at U.S. showrooms very soon.