2026 BMW 4 Series

Although based on the 3 Series, the trio of 4 Series models takes that platform in a different direction. The first indication of this is the styling, which we might describe as uncompromising — it doesn’t try to please the largest number of people, just the ones for whom it resonates. Nor does the 4 Series try to please any adults sitting in the back, but the ones in the front will enjoy the tech, quality, and supportive seats. The driver, meanwhile, gets to experience the kinetic kicks. And the 4 Series offers an inline 6-cylinder engine, a BMW hallmark, for even greater thrills.

When information comes through for the 4-door Gran Coupe version of the 2026 4 Series, we’ll update this review. In the meantime, a lot of things mentioned here, like engine power and technology, will also apply to the Gran Coupe.

We’ve logged hundreds of hours driving and evaluating this generation of compact luxury cars, including the BMW 4 Series.

Following a minor update last year, the 2026 4 Series receives no significant changes.

We will add pricing for the 2026 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe when it becomes available. A direct rival for the Gran Coupe would be the recently renewed Audi A5, starting in the $50K region. A popular choice is the base 430i Coupe (2-door) with rear-wheel drive. The only other car keeping the traditional coupe and convertible flame alight is the Mercedes-Benz CLE, with starting prices higher than these BMW counterparts.

Before buying a new 4 Series Gran Coupe, Coupe or Convertible, check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price to know what you should be paying. Resale values are a touch below the class average. Recouping more money when selling a vehicle can mean a bigger down payment and lower monthly payments on the next one.

The engine in the entry-level 430i is superb. It’s refined yet muscular, making 255 horsepower and able to accelerate from standstill to 60 mph in a brisk 5.5 seconds. That’s almost a second quicker than the entry-level Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 4Matic Coupe (also with 255 hp).

It isn’t just what the 4 Series does, it’s the way that it does it. The suspension and steering definitely have an enthusiast edge, with a feel for the road and the ability to respond crisply to driver inputs. This sportiness requires a bit of a firmer ride than something like an Audi or Mercedes-Benz, which won’t be to everyone’s taste. Take a test drive over some rough roads to see if it works for you. But also make sure to try it on some entertaining roads to let the 4 Series really shine. We’ve found that even the brakes feel confident.

The hugely enjoyable M440i develops 386 hp and will hit 60 mph in about 4.6 seconds.

Fuel Economy

We never fail to be impressed by BMW’s ability to create engines that are energetic and efficient. The 430i Coupe achieves 31 mpg in combined city/highway driving. Subtract one mpg when all-wheel drive (AWD), also known as xDrive, is in the picture. The convertible with the same engine is only a little thirstier (30/28 mpg combined). For reference, the Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 4Matic coupe (with all-wheel drive as standard) manages 27 mpg combined while the rest of the CLE lineup returns 26 mpg combined.

The rear-drive M440i Coupe runs to 27 mpg combined. Other variants with this engine are only an mpg or two behind.

It’s a classy, high-quality interior in the 4 Series. Like other BMW cabins, this one is focused primarily on the serious business of driving fun, with things like excellent ergonomics and supportive front seats. Yet it also brings an air of luxury and technology. It’s where three worlds converge, not just two. BMW cars have a fine dynamic balance and their interiors are calibrated just as carefully — nothing is lacking, nothing is overdone.

The 4 Series is a compact car, so although there’s sufficient space up front, rear passengers aren’t so well accommodated (particularly in the convertible), while trunk space goes from an acceptable 12 cubic feet in the coupe to a tight 10.6 cubic feet in the convertible. Then again, no one is likely to make a major expedition to Ikea or Costco in a 4 Series.

Unless it’s the 4 Series Gran Coupe. Lifting the hatchback reveals 16.6 cubic feet of luggage area behind the rear seats, expanding to 45.6 cubic feet when those seats are folded. Compare these figures with the 22.6/36.6 cubic feet of the latest Audi A5.

Not only have our owner reviews enthused about how great the 4 Series feels to drive, but many of them also mention how much they like the styling. As always, buyers have a choice of the 4-door Gran Coupe (with a hatchback), the 2-door Coupe with a fixed metal roof, or the Convertible with a power-retractable soft top.

BMW Curved Display
A standard feature across the 2026 4 Series range (added in 2024), it includes a digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment screen. This is the technological heart of the cabin and offers features like augmented video for the navigation, and Remote View through the MyBMW app to check on the car’s surroundings.

iDrive
We think BMW’s infotainment system is smart and user-friendly, with a menu structure designed for greater efficiency and less distraction while on the move.

Engines
We have a long-standing admiration of BMW engines because of their ability to deliver excellent and responsive power, while still achieving competitive fuel economy.

Premium package
This options bundle brings several extra luxury items like a heated steering wheel, wireless charging, keyless entry, and a head-up display.

Driving Assistance Professional package
Although the 4 Series has plenty of standard safety equipment, this package adds more driver technology. Among the features are adaptive cruise control with steering assistance, Lane Change Assistant, evasive steering assistance, and Extended Traffic Jam Assist.

Dynamic Handling package
A sport suspension and stronger brakes are part of this package, tipping the usual balance between pliancy and poise more into fun territory.

Harman Kardon audio
Gotta have music as well, right? The 4 Series offers this excellent surround-sound system.

The engine in the 430i version of the 2026 4 Series is a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder unit, augmented by a mild hybrid system for optimum efficiency. It makes 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque.

The turbocharged 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine in the M440i enjoys a total of 386 hp and 398 lb-ft. It also includes a mild hybrid setup.

In both cases, energy goes to a standard rear-wheel drive (RWD) configuration or an optional all-wheel drive system through an 8-speed automatic transmission.

There’s a high-performance M4 that we review separately, plus an all-electric BMW i4 that also has its own review.

4-Year/50,000-Mile Warranty

BMW’s new-vehicle and powertrain warranties last four years or 50,000 miles, whichever happens first. This is typical among European luxury car marques. Roadside assistance is included for that period, with unlimited mileage. Scheduled maintenance is free for three years or 36,000 miles, which is not so typical.

Safety Ratings

The 4 Series hasn’t been crash-tested by any agencies in the United States, but it has earned a maximum score of five stars from the Euro NCAP safety program.