2026 BMW 4 Series Changes, Review, Features – There are numerous ways to appreciate the stunning BMW 4 Series, but I recommend the 430i Coupe. Is there a certain configuration, like rear-wheel drive or manual gearbox, that you’re looking for when you buy a car? Even if there is an infinite number of potential romantic partners and television channels available to us, we may have some restrictions when it comes to the automobiles we may buy.
In 2026, the 4 Series will get some small updates, but only true Bimmer fans will notice. Both the front and rear fascias have seen minor visual changes, while the inside has seen revisions to the instrument panel and upholstery.
There are two more colors to choose from. Snapper Rocks Metallic Blue is the better choice, while the new Sunset Orange is also attractive. The mesmerizing beauty of it causes my heart to skip a beat whenever I look at it. The 4 Series coupe may seem different from its 2014 predecessor, but underneath it’s practically unchanged. 2026 BMW 4 Series Changes
2026 BMW 4 Series Redesign and Update Plan
Exterior & Interior
The rush you feel as you steer the car is thrilling, but not a pathological case of manic-depressive disorder. Thanks to more rigid front and rear roll bars, this year’s model—a little pocket rocket—niches into turns with ease. On a Sunday morning, even a beginner may have a blast, but skilled drivers will feel much more in control when they know how to trail brake into corners.
Even when the run-flat tires squawk in defiance, the back wants out. There is no fade as I near the finish line, and the braking is good, so I am confident. I figured I’d give it another shot because it was fun.
The 440i is a good option for people who want more acceleration in straight lines. Produced by its 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine are 320 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. On the other hand, the little engine was more than adequate for the country roads.
Even though my right foot is heavier than my left, I still managed to get 26.6 miles per gallon, which is more than the EPA’s combined rating of 25. Despite the lack of driver assistance capabilities in my test vehicle, the 8.8-inch optional screen with navigation is truly maximizing the iDrive infotainment system’s potential. The iDrive system is controlled by a rotary dial located in the center console. The map, radio, and other like controls surround it. The dial’s top may accept handwritten inputs for easier address entering.
The iDrive system is relatively straightforward to use, despite the potentially complicated menus and submenus. It’s easy to use and responds quickly, but it can’t connect to smartphones. Unfortunately, Apple CarPlay is the only available option, and it costs $300. Android Auto is not available. Because it is wireless, CarPlay doesn’t always work with iDrive. There was a moment when I was responding to a text message on CarPlay and the system wouldn’t go back to the terrestrial radio station I was earlier tuned into. It did the opposite and played music from my phone.
Apple CarPlay is going to be offered for free for a year to 2019 model year consumers, and then it will cost $80 each year after that. Their hooks are so alluring.
There is one unique thing about BMWs. Even after I turn off the engine and before I lock the doors, the radio continues to play. The radio may be programmed to turn off automatically if the driver door is opened in some models. I truly hope BMW follows suit since my choice in music is absolutely terrible. As I exit the vehicle, no one needs to hear Journey.
The 4 Series’ interior is quite modern, with features like leather seats and metallic details. Though I like the more retro-futuristic design of Mercedes-current Benz, I appreciate its organization and clean surfaces. The middle console could use some extra room.
There isn’t enough room for anything else, so just put your sunglasses and phone in there. However, the spacious door pockets provide plenty place for a water bottle and a wallet. There is plenty of space in the rear seat for someone like myself, who is 5 feet 9 inches tall. My buttocks aren’t touching the ground due of the sloped back of the seat. The rear seat isn’t exactly a picnic, especially with the two-door style. 2026 BMW 4 Series Changes
2026 BMW 4 Series Specs
Engine & Performance
Presenting the BMW 4 Series for the year 2026. Pick between an eight-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission, and decide between front-or rear-wheel drive. For the 430i, you may choose between a 2.0-liter four-cylinder or a 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine. Are you dissatisfied? You may also have it in a gran coupe or convertible version.
A grand total of twenty-four different 4 Series iterations are available, taking into account the three accessible design packages. During my week-long time with the 4 Series, I found it to be a great blend of a rear-wheel drive coupe, a smaller 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, and a manual transmission.
My tester is able to take pleasure in both simple commuting and delightful backroads thanks to the optional adaptive M suspension. On the way home from Roadshow HQ in San Francisco, I’ve found that switching to comfort mode helps with road irregularities and provides the appropriate amount of acceleration. Even though the steering gets heavier as you go faster, it’s still quite light in this setting.
I will be greeted the next day by my cherished winding back road. On the 4 Series, I typically just hit Sport Plus and yell “damn the torpedoes” whenever I feel the need. There are several noticeable modifications, such a more direct response from the throttle, a more rigid ride, and heavier steering. However, I quickly come to the realization that this mode isn’t my style.
I love how quickly the car responds to my right foot, but the heavy steering makes it impossible for me to navigate all these tight, fast curves. It doesn’t help that this public road is bumpy and uneven; riding on it is a real pain. Sport Plus feels a bit excessive on this road, but it would be perfect on a track.
However, the Sport mode is great. I still have that extra-responsive throttle, but the ride quality is more suited to these lumpy back roads. The 430i I’m riding in has a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 248 horsepower and 258 pound-foot torque. To pull off a twistie attack, you’re more than capable. My speed limit is third gear, and I’m barely getting above that. The larger 440i would likely struggle in this environment.
A handful of criticisms, nevertheless, are worth noting. Despite my best efforts, the built-in rev-matching mechanism on manual gearboxes remains enabled. Downshifting for a hairpin can cause the computer to exactly place the rpm, which might be confusing for rookie stick-shift drivers. However, I like to go barefoot whenever possible. The already unpleasant ride is made much worse by the run-flat tires on my test car.
2026 BMW 4 Series Safety Features
Despite the lack of driver aid systems in my test car, the Bimmer maintains its course and provides excellent visibility, even in heavily populated highways. The features of blind-spot monitoring and lane-keeping assist aren’t anything I really want for. Despite my preference for adaptive cruise control, I am willing to forego it in favor of the six-speed manual transmission when driving through heavy Bay Bridge traffic. 2026 BMW 4 Series Changes
2026 BMW 4 Series Release Date & Price
My tester starts at $43,300. In my opinion, the best option for my 4 Series would be to keep it stock with the manual transmission and rear-wheel drive setup that I tested. Investing $550 in Snapper Rocks Blue paint is money well spent. In addition to the standard 6.5-inch iDrive screen and heated front seats, the $2,300 premium option adds an 8.8-inch screen. Heated seats are a total must-have for me, no matter how much they cost.
For the sake of saving $500, I am prepared to go without driver assistance features like front collision alarms and lane departure warnings. Adaptive cruise control adds $1,200 to the price of an automatic gearbox, something purchasers are well aware of.
The track handling package need to be a part of it, in my view. The package includes adaptive suspension, bigger brakes, better steering, and non-run flat tires; it costs an extra $1,700. If you’d prefer not to shell out that kind of cash, the adaptive suspension is available as a separate $700 option.
The total for my 2026 test bed comes to $52,695. Not exactly inexpensive. Competition is high in this market since it includes not just the traditional suspects from other German manufacturers, but also choices from Korea, Japan, and Italy.
In addition to being a fantastic value, the 2017 Kia Stinger boasts an attractive design and a potent engine. The Audi A5 and the C-class from Mercedes-Benz come with more power options. Even though it doesn’t have any fancy gadgets, the Alfa Romeo Giulia is built to last. Conversely, the Cadillac ATS is an oldie that nevertheless gets the job done.
For those who are finicky about their engine and trim level, the 2026 BMW 4 Series is the little luxury sedan to beat. You should definitely give it a try as it occupies a very competitive and congested niche. Something with a few unexpected turns is what I propose.
Note: The details included in this blog post are derived from pre-release material that was accessible when the article was written. If you want the latest information, you should check official sources or call your nearest dealership.
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