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Everything You Need to Know About the BMW 4 Series

Jul 9, 2020

The athletic exterior, the turbocharged engine power, and the drivability define the new BMW 4 Series Coupe. With a striking resemblance to its M powered upgrade – the BMW M4, let’s just say that we have moments of long gazes whenever a BMW 4 Series passes by. We simply love this car. It is a functional and affordable performance car that looks great in the garage and feels even better driving on the road.

The BMW 3 Series Coupe Versus the BMW 4 Series Coupe

BMW 4 Series First Generation

The BMW 4 Series lineup is one of the sportiest productions featured by BMW. It is engineered to be the perfect daily drive. There are many physical and technical upgrades to the new BMW 4 Series, which differentiates itself from the outgoing BMW 3 Series Coupe.

For example, the 3 Series Coupe’s enlarged wheelbase, stretched body and lowered stance remind us of the inevitable sporting characteristics of the newly launched 4 Series Coupe. New aerodynamic elements such as the Air Breathers are designed into the rear of the wheel arches to reduce drag and increase performance. The enhanced steering, improved weight distribution, and lowered suspension (which lowers the center of gravity to below 20 inches) give the 4 Series better agility and stability.

Despite a more defined and aggressive façade, many of the distinctive BMW 3 Series’ characteristics are still present in the new 4 Series. The overall contour is the typical short overhangs, the stretched hood, and the sleek architecture of the roofline. The iconic twin-kidney grille and the LED “Angel Eyes” showcase the signature BMW brand.

BMW EfficientDynamics in The 4 Series

BMW 4 Series First Generation

EfficientDynamics has been the core energy conservation concept behind all the latest BMW models. No matter what the vehicle type is – performance oriented, luxury-focused, or “green” conscious. The key aspects behind every BMW are the lightweight construction, aerodynamic features, and optimized efficiency. For example, Auto Start-Stop and ECO PRO mode as part of the BMW EfficientDynamics in the 4 Series contributed to the lowered fuel consumption and emission reduction of the vehicle by as much as 20%.

BMW ConnectedDrive in the 4 Series

The ConnectedDrive in the 4 Series is all about utilizing BMW technologies such as the driver assistance, navigation, and mobility services to achieve the most convenience, comfort, and safety in the driving experience.

Here is a list of the BMW ConnectedDrive features:

  • Upgraded 3D Navigation
  • Full-Color Head-Up Display
  • Driving Assistant Plus with Pedestrian Warning
  • Advanced Bluetooth Function with Optional Dictation

 

The BMW xDrive in the 4 Series

Both the BMW 428i and the 435i feature standard rear-wheel drive and have the option to specify the xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive variation. The addition of xDrive increases tire traction, improves steering, enhances road safety, and further emphasizes engine power in the drive.

Aerodynamics in the BMW 4 Series

One of the primary focuses of the new generation of BMWs is to improve performance, agility, and at the same time reduce energy consumption and emission.

BMW utilizes lightweight materials such as the ultra-high strength multi-phase steel, micro-alloy steel, and aluminum to compose the body and working mechanisms of the 4 Series. Steering precision and agility are achieved without sacrificing stability with the new materials. Most remarkably, the new BMW 4 Series Coupe shaved off 99 pounds while holding a slightly more robust stance compared to the preceding model the 3 Series Coupe.

The Air Curtains and Air Breathers in the BMW 4 Series

BMW 4 Series First Generation

The Air Curtains and Air Breathers are aerodynamically fine-tuned designs in the BMW 4 Series:

  • Air Curtains are vertical air vents located on the side of the Air Intakes). It is positioned in the front apron (the piece of inner fender which stretches from the front bumper to the doors) of the 4 Series
  • Air Breathers are vents positioned behind the front wheel arches to reduce air turbulence, drag (drag coefficient is reduced to 0.28 Cd), and to improve performance

Energy Conservation in the BMW 4 Series

The Auto Start-Stop, Brake Energy Regeneration, and On-demand Ancillary Units play major roles in the BMW 4 Series’ intelligent energy management.

  • Auto Start-Stop function is introduced along with Brake Energy Regeneration as standard features in the BMW 428i and 435i. The setup ensures the power of the vehicle’s electrical system is generated during braking and coasting, and that the optimal fuel consumption can be achieved.
  • On-Demand Ancillary Unit further contributes to the energy conservation of the 4 Series. The system includes energy-saving components such as the On-demand Coolant Pump, Map-controlled Oil Pump, Electric Power Steering system, and the special air conditioning compressor which all work towards minimizing power drain.

 

The BMW 4 Series’ Impressive Performance

BMW 4 Series First Generation

Both the BMW 428i and the 435i Coupe deliver exceptionally smooth and agile acceleration. They feel well balanced and in control while on the road. The 6-Speed Manual and the 8-Speed Automatic Transmission deliver performance and efficiency promised by a BMW.

The Track Handling Package in the BMW 4 Series

While the BMW 4 Series produce enough torque to reach a speedy acceleration from a complete stop, for the performance minded drivers, adding the Track Handling Package (a Performance Option) can give your car an extra boost of sportiness with increased stability.

The Track Handling Package also includes Variable Sport Steering, M Sport Brakes, and Adaptive M Suspension (a stand-alone Performance Option).

Chassis System Tailored to the BMW 4 Series

The chassis contains some of the most important components of a vehicle. It includes the frame and essential mechanisms such as the engine, transmission, suspension, axles, steering, electrical system, and brakes.

Building upon the chassis system of the BMW 3 Series, the BMW 4 Series gets a revamped tailor fit which accentuates the drivability of the new Coupe. Springs, dampers (shock absorber), axel kinematics (digitally controlled steering system), and elastokinematics (movements of suspension) have all been precisely engineered to enhance the 4 Series’ performance.

The Suspension System in the BMW 4 Series

Better suspension calls for more agility and better steering responsiveness. The double-pivot, strut-type front suspension with anti-roll bar is perfect for the 4 Series with its lightweight yet stiff characteristics.

Aluminum torque struts and swivel bearings significantly reduce unsprung mass. While the Five-link rear suspension enhances the 4 Series’ directional stability and ensures precise wheel locations under all driving conditions.

The following two types of performance suspensions are available in the BMW 4 Series:

M Sport Suspension

The M Sport Suspension is the default suspension system in the 4 Series. It is part of the optional M Sport Package. The M Sport Suspension is equipped with a firmer spring and damper system as well as stiffer anti-roll bars. In addition, the system’s kinematics and elastokinematics (bushings and bearings) have been customized exclusively for the new 4 Series Coupe.

 Adaptive M Suspension

The Adaptive M Suspension is an add-on to the optional Track Handling Package. It can also be specified as an add-on to the M Sport Package. The Adaptive M Suspension applies to the non-xDrive models only. It adjusts the electronic damper mapping to suit individual road surface and driving situation. The result is improved driving comfort and stability. The setup includes 18-inch standard wheels or the optional Performance Package 19-inch Light Alloy Wheels. The arrangement is fitted for more performance oriented drive.

The Servotronic Steering in the BMW 4 Series

In the new 4 Series, Servotronic Steering comes standard, while the Variable Sport steering is available as a performance option within the Track Handling Package.

  • Servotronic Steering: Provides speed-sensitive power assistance and is sharper in steering feel, accuracy and response.
  • Variable Sport Steering (part of the Tack Handling Package): Based on the amount of steering angle applied by the driver, the Variable Sport Steering provides a faster, on-center steering ratio which results in responsive steering and stability when cornering.

 

The BMW 4 Series Brakes

BMW 4 Series First Generation Performance Compound Brakes

The brakes on the new BMW 4 Series Coupe are available as standard Swing-Caliper Brakes or the performance Aluminum Fixed-Caliper Brakes (M Sport Brakes, four-piston in the front, two-piston in the rear) with large, inner-vented brake discs.

  • Swing-Caliper Brakes: An efficient brake that reduces brake pad wear as well as evenly distributes braking pressure on the rotor.
  • Aluminum Fixed-Caliper Brakes (M Sport Brakes, part of the Track Handling Package): Lightweight aluminum construction in front brakes reduces unsprung mass. The brakes possess high heat resilience, shorter stopping distance, as well as great wet-braking performance.

The BMW 4 Powertrain

The powertrain is the core system of a car which is made up of engine, transmission, and drivetrain. BMW meticulously engineered the system to meet the most demanding standards in both technology and driving experience.

The BMW 4 Engine

BMW 4 Series First Generation Engine

Two types of engines are available for the first generation of the BMW 4 Series:

  • The BMW 428i is paired with a four-cylinder engine
  • The BMW 435i is equipped with a more powerful inline six-cylinder

Both engines are intelligently lightweight constructed to suit the overall aerodynamics of the 4 Series concept. Both deliver exceptional acceleration and fuel consumption.

The 2.0-Liter Four-Cylinder Engine for BMW 428i Coupe

In the BMW 428i, the 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine is fitted with the latest BMW engine technologies. It includes High Precision Direct Injection, twin-scroll turbocharging, Double-VANOS variable camshaft control, and Valvetronic throttle-less intake technology.

The BMW 428i reaches 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds, the output of this engine is 240 HP at 5,000 to 6,500 rpm with a maximum torque of 255 lb-ft and top speed at 155 mph. This compact powerhouse can deliver improved fuel-saving and less emission while not losing out on performance.

The 3.0-Liter Inline Six-Cylinder Engine for BMW 435i Coupe

The 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six BMW 435i is an award-winner equipped with the same BMW engine technology. High Precision Direct Injection and Valvetronic Fully Variable Valve Control cultivate 300 HP output at between 5,800 and 6,000 RPM with a maximum torque of 300 lb-ft and a top speed of 155 mph.

Acceleration from 0-60 mph is accomplished in 5.3 seconds with the optional 6-Speed Manual Transmission (at no added cost) scores the same goal in just 5.0 seconds with the 8-Speed Automatic Transmission (standard equipment).

  • The Optional 6-Speed Manual Transmission (at no added cost) is an available option for the 435i Coupe. The precise shifting quality allows for powerful sprints and rapid, short bursts of speed. It also helps to reduce fuel consumption
  • The 8-Speed Sport Automatic Transmission comes standard for the BMW 4 Series. The automatic transmission’s intelligent control technology provides high performance in quick and seamless gear changes. Drivers also have the option to gear shift with steering wheel shift paddles

 

The Driving Experience Control in the BMW 4 Series

BMW 4 Series First Generation Driving Experience Control

Like most of the new BMW 4 Series models, 4 dynamic driving modes are available via the Driving Experience Control switch located in the center console. Drivers have the options between ECO PRO, COMFORT, SPORT or SPORT+.  Different drive modes can trigger different settings for the powertrain and suspension mechanisms.

  • ECO PRO Mode: This is the most energy efficient mode and it can cut fuel consumption by as much as 20%. The system also offers better energy saving tips applicable to the current driving condition
  • COMFORT Mode: This mode combines energy saving factors with performance. Power is delivered when needed for the driving situation
  • SPORT Mode: Throttle response and steering are both enhanced for performance-focused operation in the SPORT Mode
  • SPORT+ Mode: The Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) thresholds are raised while the Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) is activated. Better acceleration is engaged and more performance demand can be met under this sporty mode

The First-Generation BMW 4 Series Exterior Design Inspiration

Both the BMW 428i and the 435i are available in three body type variations: Coupe, GranCoupe, and Convertible. All three deviations can be specified with the xDrive all-wheel-drive option as well as a variety of optional add-ons.

The BMW 4 Series Coupe

BMW 4 Series Coupe

When you compare the new BMW 4 Series Coupe to its predecessor BMW 3 Series Coupe, many notable updates have been done to the body.

The 4 Series comes in at 182.6 inches in length, about 1 inches longer than the outgoing 3 Series Coupe. The wheelbase has been enlarged to give off wider bearing measures at 110.6 inches, which is 2 inches longer compared to the former Coupe.

The BMW 4 Series’ width is also amplified to 71.9 inches (1.7 inches wider) and the roofline is lowered about 0.6 inches (currently at 53.6 inches) with an overall height of 54.2 inches. Along with widened front track (60.8 inches, 1.8 inches wider) and rear axle (62.7 inches, 3.1 inches wider), the new design’s proportion adjustments give off a sharper, and more athletic look and feel.

The BMW 4 Series GranCoupe

BMW 4 Series GranCoupe

The styling of this model embraces the sporty exterior of the 4 Series Coupe with the convenience of having four passenger doors for ease of access.

The GranCoupe was similarly built as the Coupe – with its width of 71.9 inches, a wheelbase of 110.6 inches, and a 60.8 inches front track paired with a 62.8 inches rear track.

The 4 Series GranCoupe has three significant differences in the exterior specifications from the Coupe – the 0.3-inch increase in overall body height, 0.5-inch rise in the roofline, and a 4.4-inch lengthier body.

The GranCoupe has a roomier feel in the backseats due to its elevated roof architecture which provides extra comfort for rear passengers. The overall body design concept, however, was inspired by the BMW 6 Series GranCoupe.

BMW 4 Series Convertible

BMW 4 Series Convertible

The topless and fun-loving BMW 4 Series Convertible has been slightly stretched to achieve a wider profile. The new model is 1 inch longer than its 3 Series counterparts at a total length of 182.6 inches. The wheelbase has been increased by 2 inches at 110.6 inches, while width has been broadened by 1.7 inches at a measurement of 71.9 inches to match the alternative 4 Series Coupe.

The BMW 4 Series Convertible can fold and unfold its three-piece steel top in just 20 seconds. This operation can be done even with the vehicle traveling at a speed up to 11 mph.

The convertible top neatly retracts into the 220-liter trunk space with the support of an electro-hydraulic loading assistance system. Still leaving enough room in the trunk to fit large items such as golfing gears and travel essentials. The “noise-absorbing” soundproofing headliner reduces outside noise within the cabin, making the ride more enjoyable and comfortable.

An In-Depth Look at the BMW 4 Series Coupe

The 4 Series Coupe physique is a symbolic model that characterizes BMW’s performance and driving power. The flow of the exterior lines impeccably connects the body structures and brings forward the car’s true sporting qualities.

The BMW 4 Series Front View

The first-generation BMW 4 Series body shares the Signature BMW design concept with the supercharged BMW M4. It is all about the classic branding combined with the futuristic technology.

Some of the most distinctive features of the BMW brand are still well preserved within the new designs. For example, the iconic twin-kidney grille since 1933 and the infamous “Angel Eyes” headlights.

The exterior of the 4 Series is as aesthetically pleasing as it is functional.  Aside from the design perspective, the newly incorporated aerodynamic features are engineered to optimize performance and conserve energy consumption. These features include the restyled Air Intakes located in the front apron and the Air Curtains structured behind the wheel arches.

Adaptive Full LED Lights with Automatic High Beams (Lighting Package) is another visibility and road safety improvement. The High Beam system automatically adjusts light settings according to current traffic and lighting conditions.

The BMW 4 Series Profile View

A car’s profile expresses so much about its design philosophy. The popular BMW 4 Series is graced with the subtle slope of the roofline which creates a balanced and modern profile. Frameless windows with the signature slim-line BMW Hofmeister kink at the trailing edge of the C-pillar (vertical support structure for the rear window area) along with the double swage below adds a stylish touch.  Above the rising lines of the trunk lid, flared wing enhances the performance aspect of the 4 Series and suggests its power potentials.

The BMW 4 Series Back View

In the back of the BMW 4 Series, the flat designs of the elongated L-shaped LED taillights capture attention from afar.  Flared wheel arches and the natural curving design of the rear window continue to reiterate the sporting aspect of the Coupe. The overall widened and lowered posture of the 4 Series from the rear view give off an alluring and powerful expression.

Interior Highlights in the First-Generation BMW 4 Series

BMW 4 Series Interior

The BMW 4 Series is a versatile model offering drivers personalized style and performance options. Interior customization is available such as choices of premium textures, exclusive colors, and a range of add-ons.

There are essentially two style and equipment packages available for the BMW 4 Series U.S. model lineup. They are the Luxury Package and the M Sport Package. Both can be specified as add-ons to the 4 Series base model to suit individual taste.

The BMW Luxury Line Package

Choice of Interior Trims:

  • Fineline Anthracite Wood Trim with PearlGloss Chrome highlight (default selection)
  • Brushed Aluminum Trim with Black High-gloss Accent
  • Burl Walnut Wood Trim with Pearl Gloss Chrome Highlight
  • Ash Grain Wood Trim with Metal Inlay and Pearl Gloss Chrome Highlight

Choice of Interior Upholstery:

  • Leather Dakota Saddle Brown Exclusive Stitching (default selection)
  • Leather Dakota Venetian Beige Exclusive Stitching
  • Oyster Dakota Leather
  • Leather Dakota Black Exclusive Stitching

Choice of Wheels:

  • 18″ Light Alloy Wheel Double-Spoke Style-397 with A/S Tires (a default selection)
  • 18″ Light Alloy V-Spoke Style 398 Orbit Grey with Mixed Performance Non-Run Flat Tires
  • 19″ Light Alloy Wheel Star-Spoke Style 407 with All-Season Tires
  • 19″ Light Alloy Wheel Star-Spoke Style 407 with Mixed Performance Tires

 

M Sport Package

Aside from the aesthetic personalization options, performance gears are also available as fee-based add-ons in addition to the basic M Sport Package.

Default Inclusions:

  • Aerodynamic Kit
  • M Steering Wheel
  • Sport Seats
  • Shadowline Exterior Trim

Choice of Suspension:

  • M Sport Suspension
  • Adaptive M Suspension

Choice of Interior Trims:

  • Brushed Aluminum Trim with Black High-Gloss Accent
  • Burl Walnut Wood Trim with Pearl Gloss Chrome Highlight
  • Fineline Anthracite Wood Trim with PearlGloss Chrome Highlight
  • Ash Grain Wood Trim with Metal Inlay and Pearl Gloss Chrome Highlight

Choice of Upholster:

  • Venetian Beige SensaTec (faux leather)
  • Black SensaTec (faux leather)
  • Black Dakota Leather
  • Oyster Dakota Leather
  • Venetian Beige Dakota Leather
  • Coral Red Dakota Leather with Black highlight
  • Saddle Brown Dakota Leather

Choice of Exterior Paint:

  • Alpine White
  • Black Sapphire Metallic
  • Glacier Silver Metallic
  • Melbourne Red Metallic
  • Mineral Grey Metallic
  • Estoril Blue Metallic

Choice of Wheels:

  • 18″ Star-Spoke 400M Wheels with Mixed Summer Tires
  • 18″ Light Alloy V-Spoke Style 398 Orbit Grey with Mixed Performance Non-Run Flat Tires
  • 19″ Light Alloy Wheel Double-Spoke Style 442 M with Mixed Performance Tires
  • 19″ Light Alloy Wheel Double-Spoke Style 442 M Orbit Grey with Mixed Performance Tires

Additional Interior Customization Options in the BMW 4 Series

Additional packages are available to further customize the interior of the BMW 428i and the 435i. Selections include a range of luxury, convenience, and performance options.

Cold Weather Package

  • Retractable Headlight Washers
  • Heated Front Seats
  • Heated Steering Wheel

 

Premium Package

The Premium Package is available in the first-generation BMW 428i only and is included as part of the Luxury Package.

Default Inclusions:

  • Comfort Access Keyless Entry
  • Lumbar Support
  • Satellite Radio with 1-Year Subscription

Choice of Upholsters:

  • Black Dakota Leather
  • Oyster Dakota Leather
  • Saddle Brown Dakota Leather
  • Venetian Beige Dakota Leather
  • Coral Red Dakota Leather with Black highlight
  • Leather Dakota Black/Red highlight
  • Leather Dakota Black Exclusive Stitching
  • Leather Dakota Saddle Brown Exclusive Stitching
  • Leather Dakota Venetian Beige Exclusive Stitching

 

Interior Comfort in the BMW 4 Series

BMW 4 Series Interior

The ergonomically structured interior of the BMW 4 Series is a comfortable, intuitive, and a driver-oriented space. Every function is designed with the ease of accessibility and usability in mind. Stylish and high-quality materials such as the beautiful Dakota Leather upholstery with exclusive stitching and luxurious wood trims with Pearl Gloss Chrome highlight are available to suit up the cockpit.

Comfortable interior designs make any journey stress-free. Front BMW 4 Series’ cockpit includes the following amenities:

  • 10-Way Power Seats with 2-Way Power-Adjustable Side Bolsters
  • 2-Way Manual Headrests
  • Thigh Support
  • 4-Way Lumbar Support (available in the BMW 435i as default amenities and an optional add-on for the BMW 428i within the Premium Package)
  • Optional Heated Front Seats

In the rear seats of the 4 Series Coupe, recessed head restraints with side support provide enough comfort for extra guests. Climbing in and out of the backseats through the front fold-down seats can be a bit challenging. So if having frequent company is your thing, opt for the roomier 4 Series 4-door Gran Coupe.

Entertainment Experience in the BMW 4 Series

BMW 4 Series Entertainment

A world class entertainment option is available to enhance the driving experience in the BMW 4 Series. Harman Kardon Surround Sound System comes as standard entertainment equipment with the BMW 435i. It can be added as an Entertainment Option to the 428i in an alternative to the default HiFi Sound System.

Harman Kardon Surround Sound System

The luxury acoustic experience delivered by the Harman Kardon Logic 7 Surround Sound System is a dynamic and well-balanced sound experience. According to the brand, “the sound system is precisely tuned to the interior of the respective BMW model.” Its multi-channel DSP amplifier with up to 600 watts and 16-high-performance speakers promises to make any soundtrack an astounding audio experience.

Innovative Interior Technologies in the BMW 4 Series

Usability is another top priority with the BMW 4 Series. The Instrument Display, Center Console, the iDrive Controls and the sport steering wheels are all ergonomically positioned around the driver for optimal access.

Incorporating the most convenient utilities into the 4 Series, handy functions can be found throughout this car. For example, the automatic seat belt valets, spacious storage compartments, the fold-down backrest of the rear seats in 40:20:40 segments for through loading. The coolest of all – the contactless opening function which pops the trunk open with the wave of the foot underneath the rear bumper. (The option is included in the Comfort Access Keyless Entry under Premium Package and as part of the Luxury Package).

The BMW iDrive in the 4 Series

The latest iDrive 4.2 had appeared on the 4 Series since the debut of the 2014 model. The new system received an upgraded navigation with Advanced Real-Time Traffic Information, as well as improved user experience in connectivity, entertainment, internet access and voice commands. Automatic time setting is also available to eliminate the need for manually adjusting time for Daylight Saving or when a time zone change is necessary.

The BMW Navigation with Touchpad in the 4 Series

BMW 4 Series Technology Navigation

The latest BMW Navigation System with Touchpad is part of the technology package. The new touchpad is integrated with the iDrive controller as a touch-enabled area located on top of the controller. Users can write letters on the touchpad to input information into the system. Both the touchpad and the controller can be used interchangeably.

The navigation user interface has been improved to include enhanced multiple route avoidance, Real-Time Traffic, incident view, Points-Of-Interest (POI) via voice, and the online search function for BWM online subscribers.

The BMW Head-Up Display in the 4 Series

Here is something we found extremely useful. The full-color Head-Up Display (HUD) which projects drive related data onto the driver’s windshield area.  Depending on the vehicle specification, the information projected from the Head-Up Display can include current speed, speed limits and passing restrictions, navigation instructions, status alerts, and entertainment menus.

The Projected display adjusts intensity according to the current light conditions. The position of the display can also be adjusted via the iDrive Controller.

The Head-Up Display is part of the Technology Package. The Technology Package also includes Remote Services, Advanced Real-Time Traffic Information, Navigation system, BMW Online, BMW Apps, and Instrument cluster with extended contents.

The BMW Driver Assistance Package in the 4 Series

BMW 4 Series Technology Head-up Display

The Driver Assistance Package includes the following:

Rear View Camera

The Rear View Camera provides a clear rear view of the car through the iDrive Display. This is extremely useful when backing out of any parking place.

Park Distance Control

The Park Distance Control alert drivers with acoustic warnings when the vehicle is too close to a large object.  Ultrasound sensors located on the rear bumper accurately measures and accesses the distance to the nearest object in reverse. It can greatly minimize blind spots and enhance safety.

The BMW Driver Assistance Plus Package in the 4 Series

The Driver Assistance Plus is another add-on for extra safety precautions in addition to the Driver Assistance Package. Note, selection of this package will trigger the selection of Active Driver Assistant Package and Navigation.

The Driver Assistance Plus

  • Active Driving Assistant
  • Active Blind Spot Detection
  • Side and Top View Cameras (available as a stand-alone Safety Option)
  • Speed Limit Info

 

The BMW Park Assistant in the 4 Series

BMW 4 Series Technology Park Distance Control

With the Park Assistant (a Convenience Option), tight spaces and parallel parking can be handled with ease. Drivers can maneuver in and out of parking spots by having the system control the steering while the driver operates the accelerator, gears, and brakes.

Simply turn on the indicator “Auto PDC” (Automatic Park Distance Control) and the parking job will be done for you. Even if drivers get too close to other objects, Auto PDC will issue alert to warn about any potential obstacle. In addition, visual instructions in the Control Display, as well as acoustic signals, ensure that the driver is fully in control of the parking process.

The BMW Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go Function in the 4 Series

Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function (ACC Stop & Go; a Convenience Option) help drivers safely navigate in traffic with a front-mounted camera on the rear-view mirror and full-range radar sensors. The system analyzes the traffic situation to property apply the Automatic Stop-and-Go. Automatic Distance Control and Active Cruise Control work together when the traveling speed is between 20 to 130 mph to support driving comfort while maintaining the needed safety measurements.

See our complete guide on the BMW Parking Assistant.

The BMW Assist in the 4 Series

The BMW Assist is an advanced safety system. It became a standard equipment on the new BMW 4 Series Coupe. The package includes the following functions:

  • 10 years of eCall emergency calling with Enhanced Automatic Collision Notification
  • BMW Teleservice

The eCall emergency calling with Enhanced Automatic Collision Notification

eCall emergency call with the enhanced Automatic Collision Notification is an Urgency Algorithm developed in cooperation with the William Lehman Injury Research Center in Miami.

According to BMW, here is what the eCall system does:

In addition to the vehicle’s exact position and direction of travel, details of the vehicle model and all the data gathered by the sensors in the car are relayed to the call center as well. This information provides indications as to the nature and severity of the collision, while the deployment of the car’s restraint systems gives an idea of the number of people injured and allows frontal, rear, side or even multiple collisions to be identified and differentiated.

The Urgency Algorithm transmits the likelihood of severe injury. On the basis of all accident-related data, the call center decides which and how many emergency services are required at the accident site (e.g. doctor, paramedic, fire brigade, helicopter). The data also enables the first responders to alert the appropriate medical care for those involved in the accident before they have even arrived at the scene.

“The call center will also stay in contact with the vehicle’s occupants until the emergency services arrive, speaking to them in their native language where possible. As well as automatic activation, the system also allows the driver or front passenger to trigger the emergency call manually in order to help other road users in distress by alerting the call center.”

TeleService

TeleService is another function of the BMW Assist. It informs drivers of maintenance due on their vehicles. It is called the Condition Based Service, which is a part of the BMW 4 Series maintenance. It monitors and analyses your vehicle status and alerts you if any service is required.  The system will even make the service call for you to the nearest BMW Service Center. Talk about intelligent management technology.