2015 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe might be a better 3 Series sedan

Sat, 01 Feb 2014

At BMW, there really is something for everyone these days. Just take a look at the massive 3 Series/4 Series range – you can have a sedan, coupe, convertible, wagon, or funky-backed Gran Turismo. And now, with the introduction of the 2015 4 Series Gran Coupe, you can have another seda... err, hatchback, actually. But perhaps, a better one.

Compared to the 3 Series sedan, the 4 Series Gran Coupe is both longer and wider by about half an inch, but is shorter in overall height by an inch and a half. Honestly, to our eyes, it looks a little better than the 3 Series, too, what with its longer roofline, more sculpted rear haunches and lower stance. Full interior volume specs for the 4GC aren't available as of this writing, but we expect them to be roughly the same as the 3 Series, perhaps with a small decrease in headroom and rear legroom. Trunk space, at 17 cubic feet, matches the 3 Series sedan, and because the 4GC actually uses a hatchback design, it should be easier to access.

Powertrains are completely carryover from the rest of the 3/4 Series range. The 428i uses BMW's well-liked 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four with 240 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque, and the 435i is fitted with the company's 3.0-liter turbo-six, good for 300 hp and 300 lb-ft. An eight-speed automatic is the only transmission available in the US with either model and rear-wheel drive is standard. Only the 428i can be had with BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system, and interestingly, the 428i Gran Coupe is actually expected to be more fuel-efficient than its 3 Series sedan counterpart. The GC is estimated to return 23/35 miles per gallon city/highway, compared to the 23/33 mpg in the 328i sedan. The 435i Gran Coupe should achieve the same 22/32 mpg ratings as the 335i sedan.

When we drove the 435i Coupe last summer, we actually found it to be a lot more engaging than its 3 Series counterpart, mostly thanks to its lower ride height and retuned suspension. The 4 Series Gran Coupe promises similar things as it can be had with an adaptive M suspension and variable sport steering. Of course, the same Eco Pro, Comfort, Sport and Sport+ drive modes have carried over from the sedan, as well.

BMW's Luxury, Sport and M Sport trims are once again available here in the 4 Series Gran Coupe, with a nearly carryover interior, save a bit more in the way of rear seat space. The car will officially debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March, and hits US showrooms this summer, with the 428i and 435i Gran Coupes priced at X and X, respectively, not including $925 for destination. This means both of the 428i models command $3,000 more than their respective 328i sedans, and the 435i Gran Coupe costs $2,400 more than a 335i sedan.

The thing is, good as the 4 Series Gran Coupe should be, it hardly seems necessary. But that hasn't stopped BMW before, and the truth is, this could very well be the 3 Series sedan we wanted all along – albeit at a price. Have a look below for BMW's official release, and check out the new 4GC for yourself in the extensive gallery above. Be sure to tell us what you think of the new 4 Series Gran Coupe in the Comments, and tell us if you'd take it over a standard 3 Series in our poll below.

The New BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe

A new 4-door coupe in the mid-sized performance-luxury segment

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – The new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe adds a fresh dimension to one of the company's newest model ranges. It combines the sleek look and sporty character of the 4 Series Coupe with the functionality provided by four-doors and a spacious, flexible luggage compartment. The 2015 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe arrives in the US in early summer of 2014 with two engine choices. The 428i Gran Coupe will feature BMW's award-winning 240hp TwinPower Turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder while the 435i Gran Coupe will be powered by the much-lauded 300hp TwinPower Turbo 3.0-liter inline six. The 428i xDrive Gran Coupe will also be available at launch with BMW's intelligent all-wheel drive system. All versions will be offered in the US with an 8-speed sport automatic transmission. The BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe will make its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2014 and makes its US debut at the New York International Auto Show in April 2014.

Prices in the US will start at a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $41,225 (including $925 destination & handling) for the 428i Gran Coupe. The 428i xDrive Gran Coupe will have an MSRP of $43,225, including destination & handling while the top-of-the-line 435i Gran Coupe will have an MSRP of $46,725, again, including destination & handling.
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While this model shares the same length, width, wheelbase and track with the extremely dynamic two-door version, the roofline of the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe is 4.4 inches (112 mm) longer and slopes gently to the rear of the vehicle. What's more, the silhouette is half an inch (12 mm) higher to offer more headroom and comfort for rear-seat passengers. This contributes to increased headroom at all seats and the overall feeling of interior spaciousness. At the same time, the short front and rear overhangs, the long wheelbase relative to the vehicle length, and the set-back passenger compartment are typical BMW touches that add to the perfect balance of the body design and the sleek appearance of this car, which is derived conceptually from the elegant BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe.

Elegant Coupe with the convenience of a Sedan

"Taking its cue from a large BMW coupe, the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe combines a dynamic and sleek silhouette with additional functionality and more spaciousness in the rear passenger compartment." –Won Kyu Kang, exterior designer responsible for the BMW 4 Series.

Like the two-door version, the sporty dimensions of the 4 Series Gran Coupe are a reflection of its dynamic handling characteristics. The stretched roofline, four frameless doors and a wide, electrically operated tailgate provide the functionality of a sedan within the silhouette of a coupe. The volume of the trunk is 17 cu-ft (480 liters), based on EU measurements. The back of the rear seat can be folded down in a 40:20:40 configuration as desired to increase the load capacity to 45.9 cu-ft (1,300 liters). The flat floor and a two-part loading strip made of stainless steel are practical convenience elements, combined with premium materials. The BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe can easily transport a baby stroller, two golf bags or weekend luggage for four without using the folding function.

In contrast to a two-door coupe, the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe offers passengers easier access when entering or leaving the vehicle thanks to the four-door configuration. The doors are frameless, having the characteristic design features of BMW midsize coupes. The wide-access tailgate blends perfectly with the overall silhouette. When closed, the precise flow of the lid seams simulates the look of a typical coupe trunk. The standard electric drives that help move the tailgate are installed vertically and require very little space. Thus the area of the rear window is much larger and provides a very good visibility, without limiting available space.

At first glance, the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe is an expression of dynamics and refined elegance. With a length of 182.6" (4,638 mm), a width of 71.9" (1,825mm) and a wheelbase of 110.6" (2,810mm), the four-door variant has the same dimensions as the two-door coupe. The track dimensions of both versions – 60.8" (1,545mm) front and 62.8" (1,594mm) rear – are identical and highlight the dynamic potential of the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe. The silhouette of the four-door model is 0.5" (12mm) higher than the two-door. The stretched roofline flows gently across both rear doors and blends into the slightly raised and short rear section of the car.

Athletic, elegant and powerful from any perspective.

The BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe is instantly recognizable from classic BMW design features such as the iconic kidney grille and dual round headlight clusters. The body contours are executed with precision, with multifaceted surfaces that distinguish the eye-catching look up front. Full LED dual headlights can be ordered as an option to bolster the dynamic aura of the vehicle. The three-part, wide air intakes in the front apron emphasize this effect. The extreme left and right apron corners reveal vertical air channels for the Air Curtains. They generate a veil of air around the front wheels, enhancing the aerodynamic efficiency of the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe.

The profile is distinguished by a bold swage line and a subtle light-catching edge that create the impression of forward movement in the design of the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe. Stretched lines and expressively contoured surfaces generate a dynamic interplay of light and shadows. The gentle slope of the roofline stretches the appearance of the sides even more and visually strengthens the presence of the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe. The taut and smooth appearance of the side windows, with a B-pillar finished in high-gloss black that is nearly invisible, creating a homogeneous profile. The rear edge of the side glass provides a modern interpretation of the Hofmeister kink that is characteristic of BMW vehicles. This extended window surface allows more light into the interior and improves the overall visibility in the rear passenger compartment.

The rear of the car features clear horizontal lines that accentuate its athletic elegance. The taillights are positioned at the outer edges to receive the swage lines, thus serving as transitional design elements that join the body side panels with the rear section. At the same time, they highlight the wide track and powerfully flared wheel arches. When viewed from the rear, the roof of the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe is somewhat wider than that of the two- door version, emphasizing its unique character.

Stylish elegance and sportiness dominate in the interior.

"The interior of the four-door coupe unifies the seemingly contradictory character of a dynamic two-door coupe with the elegance and utility of a BMW Sedan or a BMW Gran Turismo." –Tim Shih, interior designer responsible for the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe.

The interior of the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe presents a stylish fusion of sporty allure and luxury. An approach known as layering – the intelligent utilization of space through the structuring of lines and surfaces into layers – expresses the hallmark BMW driver orientation without compromising the passenger experience. The stylish and functional elegance of the interior is highlighted by prominent round instruments with a black panel look and the free- standing flat-screen iDrive monitor. The cockpit and rear passenger compartment are visually joined by trim strips originating in the instrument panel and extending along the upper sections of the door panels into the rear, and embellished by dual-color window sills. The B-pillar blends into the side panel design and includes flowing graphic effects across the entire surface. The side supports and slender head restraints in the rear seat are contoured for a modern, seemingly molded one-piece look that adds to the sporty character of the 4+1 seater.

The backrest can be folded in 40:20:40 configurations to create more luggage and storage space as required – with a flat floor for easy loading and unloading. When the seat is completely folded down, the maximum volume capacity is 45.9 cu-ft (1,300 liters), based on EU measure. If only the center segment is folded, four people can ride comfortably while transporting long and bulky items like snowboards, skis, etc. When not folded down, this middle section provides space for two cup holders. The Smart Opener function of Comfort Access is included as part of the Premium Package on US models, which automatically opens the tailgate via gesture control – namely a foot movement underneath the rear bumper when arms are full carrying groceries, packages, etc.

Exclusive: Choice of two Lines or M Sport.

The premium ambience of the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe results from exclusive colors, high-quality and rich material combinations along with special equipment packages for a customized look. In addition to the standard equipment, which highlights the classic character of the vehicle, two design Lines (Sport and Luxury) as well as M Sport are available. These optional packages endow each 4 Series Gran Coupe with a particular character and identity by embellishing the interior and exterior of the vehicle. Sport and Luxury lines offer various renditions of the following elements in contrast to the basic standard equipment: appearance and color of the kidney grille and air intakes, Air Breathers and mirror covers, side window design, front and rear apron trim, door sill finishers, and an interior center stack finished in high-gloss black.

To make the strongest dynamic statement, the M Sport package is also available at model launch with special body elements, exterior colors, light-alloy wheels and interior elements.

Sport Line: In this optional equipment line, special body elements are highlighted in black. The subtle B pillar and the nine slats in the chrome-colored kidney grille have a high-gloss black finish, whereas the side window elements are finished in matt black. The air intakes in the front spoiler and the Air Breathers in high-gloss black draw attention to the aerodynamic elements of the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe. The sporty look is enhanced even more with 18-inch or 19-inch light-alloy wheels with a dynamic double-spoke design. The rear is also distinguished by dark elements. A black trim strip and a tailpipe embellisher finished in black chrome stand for sporty dynamics. The interior, by contrast, expresses sporty flair with red accents. For example, the inner rings of the dash instruments and contrast stitching on the steering wheel are red. This character can be highlighted further in the 4 Series Gran Coupe with additional options such as the Coral Red Dakota leather interior with red lower dashboard.

Luxury Line: Bright chrome that highlights subtle accents contributes to the exceptionally elegant character of the vehicle. The 11 grille slats with chrome-colored fronts and the bright dual crossbar in the front apron's air intakes are very classy touches. The Air Breathers and high-gloss chrome window details add to the appealing look. Light-alloy wheels – 18-inch or 19-inch – with an intricate multi-spoke design reflect extravagance. From the rear, the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe can be identified by the tailpipe and horizontal trim strip in the rear apron all finished in high-gloss chrome.

Chrome accents also harmonize with the luxurious interior. The enclosure surrounding the audio system and air conditioning controls, as well as the circular rings highlighting the instrumentation, are eye-catching touches. Premium leather, finely crafted with precise stitching, is available in four classic and elegant colors such as Saddle Brown as well as the new Ivory White that is exclusive to the 4 Series Gran Coupe.

M Sport: The technology, functions and extraordinary driving dynamics that distinguish every BMW automobile are also evident in the DNA of the 4 Series Gran Coupe. Of course, these can be augmented with M Sport which is available at launch. This equipment package is comprised of elements that emphasize street performance – for example, aerodynamic features like the large air intake up front, the diffuser insert in the rear bumper and rocker panel trim matching the color of the vehicle. The characteristic M styling of the 18-inch and 19-inch light-alloy wheels adds to the bold impression. Six exterior colors are offered with M Sport, including exclusive choices such as Carbon Black Metallic (which is available for the first time on any 4 Series) and Estoril Blue Metallic.

Inside the car, features such as M door sill finishers, an M leather steering wheel and an M driver's footrest shape the sporty yet elegant ambience. The driver and front passenger can settle into the dynamic-looking and elegant sport seats upholstered in either SensaTec or supple Dakota Leather.

Technical features of this package include M Sport suspension and the optional M Sport brakes with calipers in contrasting blue paint finish.

Engines feature BMW TwinPower Turbo technology.

The new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe offers a choice of two powerful, and efficient engines in the US featuring the latest BMW TwinPower Turbo technology. The range includes the 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine in the BMW 435i Gran Coupe - as well as the light and powerful 2.0-liter four-cylinder in the BMW 428i Gran Coupe.

The power from the engines is delivered to the rear wheels via the standard eight-speed sport Steptronic transmission. All BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe feature the Auto Start Stop function.

At model launch, the BMW 428i Gran Coupe can be optionally equipped with BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive technology.

The performance and torque delivered by ultramodern BMW engines is due in large part to TwinPower Turbo technology. This technology includes innovative solutions such as high- precision direct injection, a turbocharger operating according to the Twin-Scroll principle, double VANOS variable camshaft timing and VALVETRONIC variable valve control. The low-friction engines are also equipped with an aluminum crankcase. This technology package is unrivalled worldwide and combines high performance with utmost efficiency.

BMW 435i Gran Coupe: inline six-cylinder engine with bold performance, powerful torque and silken smoothness.

The large-displacement, inline six-cylinder in the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé delivers power with high-revving characteristics and extraordinary smoothness. The 3.0-liter power plant delivers 300 hp between 5,800 rpm and 6,000 rpm, thus contributing to the sovereign dynamics of the new Gran Coupe. Peak torque of 300 lb-ft is generated as low down as 1,300 rpm and remains on tap up to 5,000 rpm. The new BMW 435i Gran Coupé sprints from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds. While official US EPA numbers are not yet available for the 435i Gran Coupe, they are expected to be in line with the 435i Coupe, which is rated at 22 mpg city/32 mpg highway/25 mpg combined.

BMW 428i Gran Coupe: four cylinders and the ideal balance between sportiness and efficiency.

Superior performance, spirited power development, high-revving characteristics and low weight: These are the qualities of the innovative four-cylinder petrol engine in the BMW 428i Gran Coupe that ensure a perfect balance between dynamic performance and efficiency. The BMW TwinPower Turbo engine combines high-revving characteristics and high-performance output with low fuel consumption and reduced emissions. The 2.0-liter engine delivers a maximum power output of 240 hp, which is reached between 5,000 and 6,500 rpm. Peak torque of 255 lb-ft is generated between 1,250 rpm and 4,800 rpm. The new BMW 428i Gran Coupe sprints from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.7 seconds. Official US EPA numbers are not yet available for the 428i Gran Coupe, they are expected to be in line with the 428i Coupe, which is rated at 23 mpg city/35 mpg highway/27 mpg combined.

BMW xDrive: intelligent all-wheel drive for two engine variants.

At model launch, the BMW 428i Gran Coupe can be optionally equipped with BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive technology as an alternative to classic rear-wheel drive. In addition to the typical all-wheel drive benefits, such as optimal transmission of engine power to the road, outstanding traction and maximum safety, BMW xDrive reduces understeer and oversteer in curves and thus contributes to agile and precision handling, especially when entering into and accelerating out of curves. The all-wheel system even compensates for sudden load shifts with ease – drivers will immediately feel the dynamic qualities of the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe. The 435i Gran Coupe will be made available with xDrive later in the year.

Eight-speed sport Steptronic automatic standard.

Fast gear changes and outstanding shift comfort are qualities delivered by the eight-speed sport Steptronic transmission. Extra shift phases keep increases in rpm small between gear changes, and that contributes to optimal transmission of engine power in every driving situation. Numerous technological innovations and a remarkably high degree of internal efficiency ensure that fuel consumption and emissions do not rise. The intelligent management and control technology also results in extremely short shifting and response times, along with direct gear engagement.

The standard eight-speed sport Steptronic transmission also rewards drivers with a sporty, "hands-on" experience – they can rely on automatic shifting or manually change gears themselves by using shift paddles on the steering wheel. Drive Mode and Sport Mode are selected with the Driving Dynamics Control on the center console.

Elaborate suspension technology for the highest degree of comfort, typical BMW handling characteristics, steering and driving precision.

Rear-wheel drive, steering free from drivetrain influences and well-balanced 50:50 weight distribution create the ideal preconditions for dynamic performance, excellent directional stability and agile handling characteristics. A low center of gravity, a meticulously tuned suspension setup and an intelligent lightweight construction concept result in a first-class overall package that combines seemingly contradictory qualities such as maximum dynamics and outstanding riding comfort in a unique way.

The BMW 4 Series Coupe provides the basis for sporting performance.

The suspension of the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe is modeled on that of the two-door model variant and has the corresponding dimensions. The wheelbase measures 110.6" (2,810mm), the track width 60.8" (1,545mm) at the front and 62.8" (1,594mm) at the rear. The rear track on xDrive variants is 62.6" (1,544mm). While the axle and elastokinematics correspond to that of the BMW 4 Series Coupe, suspension and damping were tailored exclusively to the four-door version.

Lastly, specific car body reinforcement measures and an innovative strut concept within the front and rear sections of the vehicle help to enhance steering precision and response. Nevertheless, the four-door coupe is only marginally heavier than the two-door variant and even lighter than its competitors. Consequently, the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe is characterized by driving dynamics, agile handling characteristics and a high level of precision. Ride comfort remains at a very high level, so the dynamic four-door presents itself as a vehicle that is completely suitable for everyday use.

Aluminum double-pivot spring-strut suspension up front.

The front suspension of the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe is based on the tried and tested double-joint spring-strut aluminum construction, which combines maximum stiffness with minimum weight and significantly reduces unsprung masses. Furthermore, a torsion bar located between the front axle support and the sill creates an overall stiffer connection between the front wheels and the vehicle. Models with BMW xDrive all-wheel drive technology feature a special combination comprising a load-bearing strut and transverse brace. An additional strut connecting the suspension domes and the bulkhead significantly enhances the stiffness of the front end. Therefore, the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe responds very directly to the driver's steering inputs, resulting in sporty and agile handling and allowing the car to corner effortlessly and with the highest degree of precision.

Five-arm rear suspension for comfort and active driving.

The rear suspension of the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe plays a critical role in boosting the car's dynamic ability and motoring comfort. The proven five-arm concept features extra- wide mounts and supports on the wheel carriers for track and camber, slightly repositioned pivot points, ultra-stiff control arms and axle subframes. It uses thrust arms to connect the suspension with the body. This layout provides the basis for a sporty overall set-up combined with excellent comfort characteristics. As a result, the rear suspension guarantees precise wheel guidance, maximum directional stability and exemplary ride comfort.

Servotronic as standard, variable sports steering as an option.

The new BMW 4 Series Gran Coup features standard Servotronic power steering. The system provides speed-sensitive power assistance and the clearly defined mapping results in sharper steering feel and feedback. The new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe can be equipped with variable sports steering as an option. This uses different steering ratios depending on the amount of lock applied. Only a small amount of steering effort is required for maneuvering, for example, while unbeatable tracking and straightline stability at high speeds are guaranteed.

High-performance and lightweight brake system.

The new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe comes equipped with powerful swing-caliper or fixed- caliper brakes and large, inner-vented brake discs. The front calipers are made of aluminum. As well as boasting low unsprung masses, the brakes also give superior heat tolerance, excellent wet braking performance, ease of use and excellent feel. A brake pad wear indicator and the Brake Drying function are standard on all models.

Intelligent lightweight construction: reduced weight, maximum stability.

The weight optimization of all components significantly influences the dynamic performance of the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe. Intelligent lightweight design, a complex bodywork construction and the innovative strut concept all provide a level of body stiffness that is on par with that of the two-door model variant. This is why the four-door Gran Coupe provides levels of agility and precision that one would expect of a BMW sports coupe. The use of high-strength and extra-high-strength multi-phase steel as well as tailored blanks – customized precision components for specific applications – maximizes the degree of stability at an optimized weight. Crucial, stiffness-enhancing components are made of micro-alloyed steel. As a result, the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe features torsional rigidity that matches that of the two-door model variant.

Aerodynamics: clever detail solutions for reducing consumption.

The reduction of air resistance enhances driving dynamics and reduces consumption. Optimization measures on the front apron and at the rear as well as the streamlined, smooth-surfaced underbody help the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe achieve a remarkable aerodynamic drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.27. For example, the BMW Air Curtains in the front apron generate a veil of air that reduces turbulence – and therefore drag – around the front wheels. In order to further optimize driving dynamics, the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe features aerodynamically designed wheel arches and air lips positioned in front of them. The Air Breathers positioned rearwards of the front wheel arches divert some of the air flowing through the wheel arches, thereby reducing air resistance.

Adaptive suspension, M Sport suspension and M Sport brakes.

An M Sport suspension with a firmer spring/damper set-up and more robust front and rear anti-roll bars is available as an option for the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe, and can also be ordered separately from the M Sport package. 18-inch or 19-inch M light alloys are also included in this particular case. Alternatively, customers may prefer to specify adaptive suspension – with its focused sporting set-up and electronically controlled shock absorbers – which adjusts the damper mapping to the road surface and driving situation at hand. BMW also offers an M Sport brake system for the new Gran Coupe. The team of aluminum fixed calipers (four-piston at the front, two-piston at the rear) and generously sized discs provide ideal preconditions for very short stopping distances.

Sportier, more comfortable or more efficient at the push of a button.

In addition to superior driving dynamics, the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe delivers a high level of motoring comfort. Using Driving Dynamics Control, the driver can change the vehicle's overall characteristic according to each driving situation or personal preference to either a sporty or comfortable setting. Accelerator pedal progression, engine response, power steering characteristics and response thresholds of DSC Dynamic Stability Control are influenced by this. The system also interacts with the Steptronic transmission and the optional Dynamic Damper Control. Drivers can select their desired mode – ECO PRO, COMFORT, SPORT and even SPORT+. Each of these predefined set-ups activates different settings for the relevant powertrain and suspension components.

BMW EfficientDynamics: better performance, better fuel economy.

Impressive performance coupled with exemplary efficiency is based on the BMW EfficientDynamics development strategy, the results of which are implemented in almost all areas on the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe. The optimized fuel economy of the engines, transmissions delivering a high level of efficiency, the intelligent lightweight construction concept, honed aerodynamics and other efficiency-enhancing technologies incorporated into the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe all help to optimize driving dynamics, while at the same time reducing consumption and emissions.

Package of measures to consistently reduce emissions and increase the pleasure of driving.
The new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe features an Auto Start Stop function to bring about additional economy advantages. Brake Energy Regeneration, which is also a standard feature, ensures that the generation of electric current for the onboard electrical systems concentrates on the overrun and braking phases. ECO PRO mode in particular helps the driver of the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe to achieve the best possible fuel efficiency. ECO PRO influences the engine control unit and the characteristic curve of the accelerator pedal. In addition, it contributes to intelligent energy and climate management. The driver is also provided with tips on how to reduce energy consumption even further for the best possible motoring efficiency.

In conjunction with the Steptronic transmission, the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe also features a coasting mode. At speeds of between 30 and 100 mph (50 and 160 km/h), in ECO PRO mode, the drivetrain is disconnected as soon as the driver lifts off the accelerator pedal. As a result, the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe vehicle is able to 'sail' without engine power, thereby also achieving maximum fuel efficiency.

The ancillary units are also incorporated into the intelligent energy management system of the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe. Examples include the demand-controlled coolant pump, the map-controlled oil pump as well as electromechanical power steering, whose electric motor only uses energy when power steering is required. The same is true for the on-demand air-conditioning compressor which reduces the system's power loss to a minimum.

Intelligent lightweight construction reduces consumption.

Systematic lightweight construction plays a major part in increasing efficiency and agility. This concept is applied in all areas of development and comprises all components. The targeted utilization of plastics, state-of-the-art composites and the increased deployment of aluminum components in the manufacture of engines and suspensions have helped reduce the weight of the corresponding assembly groups. All these measures have a positive effect on the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe's driving dynamics.

BMW ConnectedDrive: Comfort, safety and infotainment.

The networking of driver, vehicle and the outside world with new assistance systems and information and entertainment features is increasingly enhancing safety and comfort within the vehicle. BMW was early in recognizing the significance of networking and began integrating the digital world in its cars many years ago. The BMW ConnectedDrive systems offered in the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe either as standard or as an option underline the technological leadership. The extraordinarily high level of development in mobile automotive communication is reflected in the fact that even after purchasing a BMW, customers can, for a limited period of time, flexibly order and subscribe to a range of technologies and services.
Navigation System: operation with touch controller.

The latest generation of the Navigation System has a significantly greater breadth of functionality and a high-resolution, contrast-rich, color display. The graphics of the previous user interface have been completely revised and the navigation system's maps now have 3D elements. The central Control Display is operated in the familiar way using the ergonomically perfectly positioned iDrive touch controller in the center console, which now has an integral new, touch-sensitive surface and proximity sensor technology for even more convenient use. Users can use their finger to write characters or to enter destinations in the navigation system. They can now choose between using their handwriting or conventionally entering the destinations by rotating and pressing the controller.

Head-Up Display: full-color, high-resolution.

In the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe, all information relevant to the driver is presented by the Head-Up Display directly in the driver's line of vision. The information from the assistance systems, the navigation system or information pertaining to speed is projected onto the windshield in a particularly brilliant resolution using the full color spectrum. The wide variety of driver assistance systems now available brings the amount of information that can be shown in the Head-Up Display to a whole new level.

Advanced Real Time Traffic Information: the smart way to avoid congestion.

The quality of traffic management depends on the quality and timeliness of traffic data available. The optional ARTTI (Advanced Real Time Traffic Information) system from BMW transmits data quickly and accurately via the mobile phone network. A SIM card integrated in the vehicle receives traffic data in real time and then calculates routes or detours instantly. ARTTI covers interstate highways and state highways as well as primary, secondary or even tertiary roads. Data is additionally obtained from local authority traffic management systems to provide precise information on traffic density. ARTTI is included with the Navigation System option in the US.

Active Driving Assistant warns the driver of potential collisions – including those involving pedestrians.

The Active Driving Assistant uses intelligently networked camera-based assistant systems and image processing to detect any people or vehicles within its field of vision. The movements of pedestrians are difficult to anticipate – they stop or suddenly change direction. Therefore, they impose much higher demands on the detection capabilities of assistant systems than vehicles driving ahead. When the system recognizes a looming risk of collision, it produces an acute audible warning and a visual signal appears in the instrument cluster or the Head-Up Display to alert the driver that he or she is drawing too close. The system ideally avoids a collision or, should worst come to worst, significantly reduces the consequences of an impact.

Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function: a system of many talents.

More active safety and more comfort are provided by the latest version of BMW's Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function (ACC Stop&Go). It uses the data provided by the full-range radar sensors, continuously measures the proximity of the vehicle ahead and warns the BMW driver if necessary. Active Cruise Control with automatic distance control is now available at speeds between 20 and 130 mph (30 km/h and 210 km/h).

Active Blind Spot Detection and Lane Departure Warning systems use sensors and camera monitoring.

Active Blind Spot Detection and Lane Departure Warning are convenience and safety- enhancing assistance systems. These systems employ radar sensors and use the data from the front camera to alert drivers to potential collision risks when changing lanes or if they veer out of lane unintentionally and also issue a warning when driving too close to the vehicle ahead. The Lane Departure Warning system is only available as part of the Active Driving Assistant.

Speed Limit Info: always up to date.

In conjunction with the Navigation System, Speed Limit Info helps to keep the driver informed of the speed limit for the current stretch of road. The front-mounted camera ensures that additional signs or variable overhead gantry signs are taken into account. In addition, the system is able to reliably identify and react to temporary speed limits. When the window wipers are active, the system also detects signs that are valid in wet conditions only. In conjunction with the exact onboard time, speed limits are presented which are only in force at certain times of day or night.

Improved sight at night: full LED headlights with High Beam Assistant.

The bright white light emitted by full LED headlights illuminates the road ahead with an exceptional intensity. The High Beam Assistant can also adapt to the traffic situation by switching to low beam. In conjunction with the front camera, the system reliably detects well lit stretches of road and switches to low beam when passing through cities, for example. The LED headlights with High Beam Assistant significantly increase the usage of high beam and therefore provide for better sight and increased safety when driving at night. When LED headlights are fitted, the optional fog lights are also implemented in LED technology, which further accentuates the premium character of the car's features and equipment.

Superb overview and convenient parking.

In addition to the rear view camera and PDC Park Distance Control, customers can also opt for the Surround View function with Side View and TopView, which provides a bird's eye view of the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe and the area around it, enabling the driver to carry out precise maneuvers in tight spaces. If the car's speed is under about 12 mph (20 km/h), the Side View function can additionally be activated to allow the driver to keep an eye on cross traffic. Convenience is further enhanced by the BMW Parking Assistant system which is able to maneuver the car into parking spaces parallel to the direction of travel. Sensors detect possible parking spaces while driving by and the system perfectly maneuvers the car into the parking spot if desired. The driver controls the speed by applying the accelerator and the brake pedal as well as switch between the forward and reverse gear.

Services and apps: innovative services and infotainment in its purest form.
Due to the ever-increasing popularity of smartphones and other digital devices, Internet, apps and digital services have been an integral of everyday life for some time now.

BMW ConnectedDrive offers high-performance interface technology and provides top-of- the-range infotainment and entertainment capability that enables the driver and passengers to make extensive use of external mobile phones and music players. Through the optional ConnectedDrive Services, the world of apps can be integrated into the vehicle. Browser- based BMW online applications are loaded directly into the vehicle via an embedded onboard SIM card. These applications put at the driver's disposal online services such as weather, news or office functions. Smartphone apps allow in-car use of innovative services like Stitcher, Audible, Amazon Cloud Player, Twitter or Facebook.

The latest-generation Navigation System features a full speech recognition function and an optimized voice control system to complete the portfolio of office functions offered by BMW ConnectedDrive. The full speech recognition system enables drivers to dictate text freely and compose short text-based messages by voice. In addition, Internet-based services, as well as calendar entries and text-based messages, can still be viewed in the Control Display of the iDrive operating system and read out via the Text to Speech function.

The all-new 2015 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe arrives in US showrooms in early summer.

By Steven J. Ewing