Used BMW 4 Series: Buyer's Guide
Buying a used BMW 4 Series means owning one of the sharpest driving machines in its class. Renowned for precision handling and premium interiors, it delivers a rewarding drive whether on a weekend trip or daily commute. In Gran Coupe form, a 470-litre boot adds welcome practicality. This pre-owned BMW suits enthusiasts who value both road performance and sensible functionality.
Used BMW 4 Series Popular Trims
| Trim Level |
Details |
| SE |
A wonderful starting point, featuring 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, and dual-zone climate control as standard. |
| Sport |
Adds a touch of flair with high-gloss black trim and sports seats that hug you in all the right places. |
| M Sport |
The sweet spot. M Sport suspension, an aerodynamic body kit, and bespoke interior details transform the look and feel of the car. |
| M440i |
The performance flagship below the M4, offering xDrive all-wheel drive and a powerful six-cylinder engine for those prioritizing speed. |
Used BMW 4 Series Popular Battery & Drivetrain Options
| Engine |
Details |
| 420d (Diesel) |
The rational choice for high-mileage drivers, offering a robust 190hp and excellent fuel economy for relaxing long-distance journeys. |
| 420i (Petrol) |
Silky smooth and quiet, this 2.0-litre engine balances performance with lower upfront costs, ideal for urban driving. |
| 430i (Petrol) |
The hidden gem. Offers a surge of power for effortless overtaking without the higher running costs of the six-cylinder models. |
| M440i (Petrol) |
A masterpiece of engineering. This 3.0-litre six-cylinder mild-hybrid delivers 374hp and a thrilling soundtrack. |
Running Costs:
- Real-World MPG: Enjoy efficient cruising with figures between 37-58 mpg depending on the engine.
Used BMW 4 Series Practicality
Living with the 4 Series is a breeze, thanks to thoughtful design touches that make life easier.
- Boot Space: Offers a generous 440 litres in the Coupe and 470 litres in the Gran Coupe, accommodating golf clubs or weekly shopping with ease.
- Rear Access: The Gran Coupe's four doors make loading passengers or shopping bags effortless, making it a viable option for small families.
- Storage: Ample door bins and a deep central cubby ensure the cabin remains clutter-free.
Used BMW 4 Series Key Features
Key Features:
- iDrive System: The intuitive 10.25-inch touchscreen puts entertainment and vehicle settings at your fingertips.
- Smartphone Integration: Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto keep you connected to your music and messages.
- Climate Control: Dual-zone automatic air conditioning maintains a comfortable cabin temperature.
Desirable Options:
- Comfort Pack: Indulge in a heated steering wheel and keyless entry for a truly premium experience.
- Technology Pack: Includes Head-Up Display and Harman Kardon sound system for a modernized driving environment.
Used BMW 4 Series Reliability Rating
The 4 Series is mechanically robust, but checking key components is essential for a trouble-free ownership experience.
What to Check on a Test Drive:
- Infotainment: Swipe through the menus to ensure the screen is responsive and lag-free.
- Gearbox: Ensure the ZF 8-speed shifts smoothly in both automatic and manual modes.
- Tyres: Inspect for uneven wear, which can indicate alignment issues or suspension wear.
Used BMW 4 Series Safety Rating
Travel with confidence knowing the 4 Series achieved a 5-star Euro NCAP rating in 2019.
- Occupant Safety: Scored an impressive 97% for adult occupant protection, ensuring high levels of safety for the driver and front passenger.
- Active Safety: Standard Autonomous Emergency Braking and Lane Departure Warning provide an extra layer of security.
Awards for the Used BMW 4 Series
- What Car? Awards: Frequently commended for its blend of handling and quality, beating rivals like the Audi A5.
- Auto Express: Hailed as the class leader for driving dynamics and premium appeal.
Who is the Used BMW 4 Series Best For?
- Driving Enthusiasts: Those who prioritize handling and engagement above all else.
- Commuters: The 420d offers an unbeatable combination of range and comfort for long motorway journeys.
- Style Seekers: Drivers who want a car that reflects their personal taste and success.
Key Alternatives to Consider:
- Audi A5: Offers a high-quality interior and Quattro all-wheel drive security.
- Mercedes C-Class Coupe: Focuses more on comfort and luxury than outright driving dynamics.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Used BMW 4 Series
How often does the BMW 4 Series require a scheduled service?
The BMW 4 Series utilizes an intelligent Condition Based Servicing system that monitors the vehicle's health to determine exactly when maintenance is needed.
- Monitoring: The system tracks the condition of key components like engine oil and brake pads.
- Notification: Alerts appear on the iDrive infotainment display and digital instrument cluster when a service is due.
- Schedule: Generally, a service is recommended every 18,000 miles or every 24 months, depending on driving habits.
Is the BMW 4 Series considered expensive to tax and insure?
The BMW 4 Series offers a range of running costs that reflect its premium status and performance capabilities.
- Insurance Groups: Models sit between insurance groups 23 and 50, varying significantly by engine power and trim level.
- Fuel Efficiency: The 420d diesel model offers excellent efficiency with up to 60.1 mpg, helping to manage ongoing fuel costs.
How do I maintain the leather interior in a BMW 4 Series?
Maintaining the premium leather upholstery in your BMW 4 Series ensures it remains soft, supple, and free from wear.
- Clean: Wipe down the seats regularly with a damp microfibre cloth to remove surface dust and dirt.
- Condition: Apply a high-quality leather conditioner every 6 to 12 months to prevent drying and cracking.
- Protect: Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could damage the leather's protective finish.
How do I connect my smartphone to the BMW 4 Series iDrive system?
Connecting your smartphone to the BMW 4 Series is a seamless process thanks to the standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
- Select: Navigate to the 'Mobile Devices' menu on the iDrive touchscreen.
- Pair: Choose 'New Device' and select your phone from the list of available Bluetooth devices.
- Confirm: Follow the on-screen prompts on both the car display and your phone to finalize the wireless connection.
Does the BMW 4 Series come with parking sensors or cameras?
The BMW 4 Series is well-equipped to make parking and maneuvering straightforward and safe.
- Sensors: Front and rear parking sensors are standard across the range, providing audio and visual warnings.
- Cameras: A rear-view camera is typically included, displaying a clear image on the central screen.
- Assistance: Advanced Parking Assistant packages can automatically steer the vehicle into parallel or perpendicular spaces.
How do I activate the heated seats in a BMW 4 Series?
Activating the heated seats in your BMW 4 Series is simple and provides immediate comfort during colder drives.
- Locate: Find the heated seat button, usually located on the climate control panel or within the climate menu on the touchscreen.
- Press: Push the button to cycle through the three intensity levels, indicated by LED lights.
- Adjust: Use the iDrive menu to configure automatic activation based on outside temperature settings.
What is the difference between Sport and Comfort mode in a BMW 4 Series?
The Drive Performance Control switch allows you to instantly tailor the driving characteristics of the BMW 4 Series to your preference.
- Comfort Mode: Optimizes the suspension and throttle response for a smooth, refined, and fuel-efficient ride.
- Sport Mode: Sharpens the throttle response, weights up the steering, and stiffens the adaptive suspension for a more dynamic drive.
- Eco Pro: Adjusts vehicle settings to maximize fuel efficiency and encourage an economical driving style.
How do I update the satellite navigation maps in a BMW 4 Series?
Keeping your BMW 4 Series navigation system up to date ensures you always have the latest routes and points of interest.
- Automatic: Over-the-air updates are often available for your home region, downloading automatically via the car's SIM card.
- USB: For full map updates, download the data to a USB stick via the BMW ConnectedDrive portal and plug it into the car's USB port.
- Install: Follow the on-screen prompts to install the new map data while the vehicle is stationary.
What premium sound system options are available in the BMW 4 Series?
The BMW 4 Series offers high-quality audio options to enhance your listening experience on every journey.
- Standard: The standard Hi-Fi speaker system delivers clear and balanced sound through multiple speakers.
- Harman Kardon: An optional Harman Kardon surround sound system provides a richer, more immersive audio experience with increased power.
- Settings: Adjust bass, treble, and balance settings via the iDrive menu to perfectly suit your musical tastes.
