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Like an empty toothpaste tube BMW is throwing away one of its most respected vehicles. The sporty and sophisticated 3 Series Coupe is not long for this world. But do not despair my fellow automotive enthusiasts, they’re replacing it with something very compelling… the all-new 2014 4 Series.

Numerically four is bigger than three so it must be better, right? Right! Slightly larger than the outgoing 3 Series coupe the car features a wider track, a longer wheelbase and a lower ride height. These fundamental changes give it the lowest center of gravity of any current BMW. It also has near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution, another BMW hallmark.

This is the 428i model, sort of the base car in the lineup. It’s powered by the company’s superb 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It delivers 240 horsepower and can hit 60 miles an hour in a fleet-footed 5.7 seconds.

For more power a 3.0-liter turbocharged straight six is also available in the 435i. Is a car truly a BMW if it doesn’t have an inline six? That’s up to you. Output is a claimed 300 ponies with an equal amount of torque.

And there’s more great news for drivers, both engines are available with either an eight-speed automatic transmission or a proper manual with six gears. Believe it or not the stick is a no-cost option. Additionally, both models are available with rear- or the company’s xDrive all-wheel drive system.

Thankfully for mother earth these cars are also responsible, with fuel-saving features like automatic start-stop and special aerodynamic add ons. There are “air breathers” around the wheels for instance, which help cut drag.

There’s lots of good stuff with the new 4 Series and you’re probably wondering about pricing. An entry-level 428i starts around $42,000 while the more powerful 435i is roughly 47,000 bucks. Naturally versions with xDrive cost a couple grand more. Look for the exciting new BMW 4 Series at U.S. showrooms very soon.

 

[M4S]

This is the 428i model, sort of the base car in the lineup. It’s powered by the company’s superb 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It delivers 240 horsepower and can hit 60 miles an hour in a fleet-footed 5.7 seconds.

I didn't see this coming as the numbers increase for the models but the engine size just keep decreasing. A 2L four cylinder in the 4 series really? Even for the base I thought it was not enough. From what I could remember the last 328i had a bit more power than 240hp no?

 

[Cologero]

Well this iis what it's coming down to. Sooner or later you will see more of these force inducted four cylinders int eh luxury line up. I have no problem with that as long as it makes the power. For those who are not fortunate enough to get the inline six models will have to resort to this option.

Just be glad that we aren't seeing any turbo charged 3 cylinders yet...

 

[Beemer-Bammer]

this new 4 series is slightly wider but isn't the roof slightly lower as well? Would that have affect on the interior head room for the passengers?

 

[Marachi]

Numerically greater doesn't always mean better. I think we will just wait until the release to get a feel for what it is about the 4 series that is better than the 3.