BMW's model range recently got another version, namely the series 4 gran coupe, which is sportier than the sedan series 3 and more useful than the sports coupe, in the form of the series 4. Thus, it is supposed to represent the best of both worlds, which in practice is partly the case. but not entirely, he confirms. However, it convinces with its image and excellent driving dynamics.
In terms of measurements, among the three Bavarian "rivals" mentioned above, they are literally negligible, but it has grand coupe compared to the sedan, one important advantage is its 480 liter trunk, which otherwise has the same proportions and volume, is significantly more useful than that of the limousine, as the rear door opens like a hatchback, which means the opening is significantly larger than that of the limousine and consequently bigger is also trunk utility and the GC model in general.
Standard "xenon" and electric tailgate
In addition, it also has the standard equipment, just like for example the 3 series GT electric tailgate opening, which is more than welcome, although it deserves rebuke roughly opening and closing the door which is accompanied by a special and not very pleasant sound (crush). The closing of the side doors, which requires more force than is appropriate for the premium segment of vehicles, also deserves a minor reprimand. Praise goes to the split (40:20:40) rear seat bench, which further increases the size and usability of the luggage compartment.
But this is a result of the fact that coupe-style doors do not have door frames, which looks very pleasing when the doors are open. The four-door design also makes it easier to get into the second row, where there is about the same space as in a sedan and more than in a coupe, but the curve of the roof is similar to the latter, which does take away a centimeter of space for the heads of the rear passengers, but there is still more than enough space .
In terms of design, this is another in a series of very similar and related BMW models, with a practically identical front part of the vehicle, where only the side and rear of the vehicle tell the observer enough about the version, and for some it will be "clear" only when they see the inscription gran coupe on the rear side "window". We can't argue with the design, especially when the gran coupe is reinforced with the equipment package sport and M-package. The nose of the vehicle is as expected aggressive, even more sporty inspired, and the bumper is nicely rounded, and the side gills are finished in piano black.
The side offers a nice combination of sportiness and elegance, 18-inch rimsbut due to the large wheel openings, they are a literal necessity and not just an image. At the rear, we see the most affinity with the coupé series 4, but we missed it movable "spoiler" from Series 3 GT, but at the same time we are of the opinion that the Bavarians have recently been too reserved regarding the double exhaust pipe, which is still reserved for versions with a six-cylinder "heart" under the hood of a nicely inflated and wavy hood. The design is so very sporty, likeable and recognizable as a BMW, we just wish there were a few more unique features.
Unfortunately, the same story is told by the interior, which is otherwise very mod(er) and pleasing to the eye and feel, but it is true that the level of prestige even in a gran coupe is largely related to the depth of the owner's wallet. Tesntik is overpowered sports front seatand leather upholstery, which nicely matches the interior M-package, whose signature can be found on the excellent steering wheel, which is both a pleasure to turn and to look at, we are also of the same opinion regarding eight-speede shiftable automatics, which shifts lightning fast in manual mode. Poetry... the driver's workspace is so distinctly dynamic that it could be described as sporty missing aluminum pedals, which interestingly, according to the sports equipment package, remained on the list of additional payments. In terms of driving comfort, passengers should not complain, but with larger "shoes", the stiffness of the suspension, which together with the chassis is distinctly on the sportiness side, would certainly come to the fore.
As for the standard equipment, the buyer basically gets all the essentials and also some treats such as bi-xenon lights, but it still bothers us that, in addition to the standard limiter, it is necessary for cruise control well to pay extra and also a fairly salty 328 euros. The tester was able to handle it powerfully navigation with a large screen and iDriv interfacee, eight-speed automatic transmission, heated front seats, cruise control with brake function, parking aids with reverse cameraoh and what else could be found.
READ MORE: The first kilometers with the BMW M4 coupe
Under the hood, in our opinion, the most weighty drive choice was spinning, in the form of a version 420 d, which represents her 2,0-liter diesel engine with 135 kW of power and 380 Nm of torque. More than enough for the vast majority of users, but it's true that in this segment we still haven't quite gotten used to the diesel sound from under the engine hood. The powerful diesel engine convinces with its explosiveness, performance and economy, but a little less with its refinement, at least in both sports operating modes. At that time, the engine revs up admirably, but at the same time it also becomes a little nervous, which is partly the fault of the automatic transmission.
Therefore, it is best to spend most of the time in comfort modet while mode "eco pro" it still cuts the wings of the vehicle and engine too much and is best used only when and if you want to save fuel. When you do this repeatedly and consciously, the consumption will stabilize around 5.5 liters, in more sporty driving, it will approach six and move a tenth higher. considering the dimensions and capabilities, it doesn't matter a commendable achievement, which tips the scales in favor of choosing this engine. The driving characteristics are excellent in all driving conditions and driving modes, and with the right driver behind the wheel, the 420d GC can be a real arrow. But there is also another side to the story, that with an unskilled driver, the fun quickly turns into exaggeration and sweeping with the rear, which the electronics effectively control.
Base price 44,300 euros, otherwise, it does not mean the appearance and equipment as it was in the case of the tester. It is enough for that a good 60 thousand, which, considering everything, is a bit high price, but with this, if you leave some extras on the list of additional payments, the price can be significantly reduced, and you will still have a good (excellent) ride and be a feast for the eyes.
