Road Test: 2014 BMW 435i xDrive

Road Test: 2014 BMW 435i xDrive

The new BMW 4 Series Coupe have arrived to replace the old 3 Series Coupe. Compared to the preceding model, the new coupe is 26 millimetres longer and 43 millimetres wider. The roofline  now runs 16 millimetres lower which makes the car look even wider. The car is still easy to recognize with its BMW-typical long bonnet, short overhangs, set-back passenger compartment and beautifully flowing roofline. The styling is similar to its big brother, the 6 Series Coupe.

Car’s individual style can be enhanced by choosing one of the three equipment combinations; Sport Line, Modern Line or Luxury Line. The chosen trim changes the design and colour scheme of the kidney grille and air intakes, exterior mirror caps, trim strips in the front and rear apron, among others. If you want even sportier look, then your choice is this M Sport package.

In addition to the aerodynamic body kit, BMW Individual High-gloss Shadow Line trim and 18- or 19-inch light-alloy wheels with M design, M Sport package also includes the M Sport suspension. This gives the car a sportier but still comfortable ride. Inside the car the M theme continues with M door sill finishers, M leather steering wheel and M driver’s footrest. The sporty appearance is completed with Hexagon/Alcantara sport seats. The optional exterior paint shade Estoril Blue metallic is only available with M Sport package.

The BMW 4 Series Coupe is available with a range of 4- and 6-cylinder engines. The most powerful petrol variant is this BMW 435i powered by 3.0-litre straight-six engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology.  It develops maximum output of 225 kW/306 hp between 5,800 and 6,000 rpm. The peak torque of 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) is available between 1,200 rpm and 5,000 rpm. The standard six-speed manual gearbox would be the right choice if you are looking for an ultimate driving experience. However, with this this eight-speed automatic the car is not just faster, but also more economical.

Another great feature available for the new 4 Series is the xDrive four-wheel drive. The fuel consumption increases a bit, but with the four-wheel drive the car is more stable and safer to drive in challenging weather conditions. And with the extra traction provided by the xDrive, the car is even faster. The rear-wheel drive BMW 435i accelerates from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5,4 seconds. With the xDrive and automatic transmission, the coupe can make the sprint in 4,9 seconds.

The BMW 435i looks beautiful, is great to drive, and with this 3.0-litre engine, it also has the performance to match its sporty appearance. So if you don’t need to use the rear seat frequently, this coupe might be the right choice for you.