Used BMW 4 Series (2014-2020) Guide: 5 Best Engines

The BMW 4 Series first generation, produced from 2014 to 2020, stands out as a premium coupe that blends sharp handling, elegant lines, and efficient powertrains, making it a smart choice on the used market today. This model separated from the 3 Series to offer a more focused sporty experience, available as a coupe, convertible, or practical Gran Coupe. Buyers appreciate its engaging drive and upscale cabin, though careful selection avoids potential reliability pitfalls.

Design and Body Styles: Sleek Appeal Across Variants

The 4 Series lineup captivates with its low-slung profile and frameless windows, giving it a distinctive coupe silhouette that emphasizes sportiness over outright practicality. The standard coupe prioritizes aerodynamics and agility, while the convertible adds open-air freedom without sacrificing much refinement when the roof is raised. The Gran Coupe variant stretches the formula into a four-door format, blending hatchback utility with sedan poise.

• Coupe: Most athletic stance with a compact footprint ideal for twisty roads.
• Convertible: Retractable hardtop maintains structural integrity and noise isolation.
• Gran Coupe: Extended roofline boosts rear space, described as a ‘4+1’ setup for occasional extra passengers.

Exterior updates evolved subtly over the years, with later models gaining bolder kidney grilles and LED lighting for a more aggressive look. Build quality impresses, though some owners note paint chips on high-mileage examples.

Engine Lineup: Power and Efficiency Balanced

BMW offered a versatile range of turbocharged petrol and diesel engines, paired with either a slick six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission. Petrol units shine for spirited driving, while diesels excel in economy for high-mileage commuters.

The four-cylinder turbos provide punchy acceleration, but the six-cylinder petrols deliver smoother, more rewarding performance with a thrilling exhaust note. Diesels suit motorway cruisers, though diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogs can arise in low-mileage urban use. Fuel economy impresses across the board, contributing to low running costs.

Driving Experience: Precision and Poise

At its core, the 4 Series upholds BMW’s reputation for dynamic handling. A lower ride height, wider track, and firmer suspension compared to the 3 Series sedan sharpen cornering responses. Steering is weighted and direct, instilling confidence in Sport mode.

• Adaptive suspension (optional on M Sport) balances firmness with compliance.
• Coupe feels nimblest; convertible and Gran Coupe add slight weight but remain composed.
• Eight-speed auto shifts seamlessly, enhancing both efficiency and pace.

Owners praise the supportive front seats and low driving position, perfect for long hauls or enthusiastic drives. Ride quality firms up on larger wheels, so test drive equivalents to your target spec.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Cabin quality rivals pricier rivals, with durable materials, intuitive controls, and ample space up front. Rear legroom surprises in the coupe, accommodating adults for moderate trips, while the Gran Coupe offers superior versatility.

Standard tech includes dual-zone climate, Bluetooth, and parking sensors; higher trims add navigation, heated seats, and premium audio. iDrive infotainment evolves across facelifts, culminating in touch-sensitive controls by 2020. Trunk space measures 445 liters in the coupe (480 in Gran Coupe), shrinking modestly in the convertible.

Trim Levels and Equipment Highlights

Trims range from entry-level SE to loaded M Sport, with special editions like Luxury adding chrome accents and 18-inch wheels.

• SE: 17-inch alloys, xenon lights, leather, cruise control.
• Sport/Luxury: Enhanced styling, sports seats, bigger rims.
• M Sport: Aggressive aero, firmer suspension, metallic paint on six-cylinders.

Options like adaptive dampers and laser headlights elevate the experience, but prioritize essentials to control used prices.

Reliability and Ownership Costs

While engaging, the 4 Series trails newer rivals in dependability surveys. Common issues include timing chain wear on early 428i four-cylinders (costly repair ~£8,000) and DPF problems in diesels. BMW ranked mid-pack among brands.

• Petrol six-cylinders prove most robust; avoid neglected four-pots.
• Service intervals at 18,000 miles/2 years; expect £400-600 bills.
• Insurance groups 28-40; residuals hold well for coupes.

Owners report strong satisfaction with driving dynamics (85% five-stars in some polls) but flag electronics glitches and dealer service variability.

Buying Advice: Top Picks and Checks

Target 2016+ facelift models for refined tech and fewer early gremlins. Inspect service history, especially chains and turbos; full BMW dealer records ideal.

Budget £15,000-£25,000 for low-mileage examples. Test multiple variants—coupe for purity, Gran Coupe for family use.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the BMW 4 Series reliable?

Moderately so; six-cylinder petrols fare best, but check for timing chain and DPF issues on used buys.

What’s the best engine for used 4 Series?

440i for fun, 420d for economy—match to your driving style.

How practical is the rear seating?

Adequate for two adults; Gran Coupe adds flexibility as a 4+1.

What’s the fuel economy like?

Diesels hit 50-60mpg; petrols 30-45mpg combined.

Should I buy coupe or convertible?

Coupe for sportiness, convertible for versatility if you value roof-down drives.