Today, BMW issued a press release unveiling the new 2021 BMW 4 series, including a top-spec M440i xDrive coupe flagship model.
The high spec versions of the 4 Series coupes will be powered by inline-six engines, a hallmark of BMW’s most successful models. The M440i will have a 374 HP twin-turbocharged engine with a mild 48V, 11 HP hybrid boost at low revs until the turbos can spool up.
Only the base model 420i and slightly spritzed up 430i will use inline-four engines, at 184 HP and 255 HP respectively. The diesel variant, the 420d, will have more details released in 2021.
For the diesels, the big difference between this generation and previous generations is the introduction of two-stage turbocharging, allowing for more power across more of the rev range.
All models will have BMW’s 8-speed Steptronic transmission, with no manual option. The only other transmission on offer is the Steptronic Sport transmission, with different ratios to promote acceleration and responsiveness.
The keen-eyed supercars reader will also notice that compared to the last 4 Series, the new G22 generation has a much more streamlined and sloping body, especially along the rear quarter panels and tail sections.
The other key aesthetic design is the first reveal of the final version of the new front grille. While it’s definitely a departure from the previous versions, we think that with the full front end finally out from under camouflage, it does fit the shape and design language of the car.
The M440i, 420i, and 430i will be available worldwide in October 2020. An M4 is coming in 2021, as are the sedan and gran coupe versions of the 4 Series.