Facelifted BMW 4 Series and Upgraded M4 Set for South African Debut
The BMW M4 Competition, already surpassing the legendary E60 M5 in power, receives an exhilarating upgrade as part of a subtle facelift shared with its 4 Series Coupe and Convertible counterparts. While the rear-wheel drive versions of the BMW M4 maintain their current tuning, with the manual transmission offering 353 kW and the M4 Competition's eight-speed auto at 375 kW, the xDrive Coupe and Convertible variants, notably popular in South Africa, now boast an impressive 390 kW. This enhancement is due to software modifications, with maximum torque remaining 650 Nm but now available over a broader range from 2,750 rpm to 5,730 rpm. The 0-100 km sprint time continues to impress at just 3.5 seconds.
The BMW M440i Coupe and Convertible models receive a significant update with 48V mild hybrid technology, already a standard in other 4 Series variants. This addition provides an 8 kW over-boost to the straight-six turbocharged engine, raising its output to 275 kW.
In terms of design, the BMW 4 Series models enjoy a subtle facelift inside and out. This includes new Adaptive LED headlight designs and the option of Laserlight tail lamps. The M440i stands out with its high-gloss black kidney grille, a shift from the previous Cerium Grey front apron elements. The 4 Series lineup also introduces new exterior colours and alloy wheel designs. Inside, the cabin has been refined with redesigned steering wheels and updates to the instrument panel and digital climate control system.
Technologically, the 2024 models are equipped with the BMW Operating System 8.5. This update features a redesigned home screen with a modern smartphone-inspired menu structure. The BMW Maps navigation system is now enhanced with Augmented View, offering a live video stream of the driver's view on the control display or instrument cluster. This innovative feature includes animated directional arrows at complex junctions, providing a more intuitive and informative navigation experience.
Combining these enhancements with the already impressive specifications of the new BMW M4 Coupé and Convertible and the M4 Competition models, the BMW 4 Series range sets a new benchmark in its class. Integrating advanced technology, improved performance, and sophisticated design ensures that these models will continue to captivate enthusiasts and lead in their respective segments. Availability, specifications, and pricing for the South African market will be announced later in the year, adding to the global anticipation for these high-performance vehicles.
