The wait for the all-new BMW 4-Series is almost over as the automaker has announced the model has entered the final phase of testing and released a new photo gallery of a camouflaged prototype.
Engineers are now putting the final touches to the chassis technology on the country roads and motorways surrounding the BMW Group’s Research and Innovation Centre in Munich.
After being assessed at the winter testing center in Arjeplog, Sweden, at the BMW Group’s test centre in Miramas in France, on the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife circuit, and at various other race tracks, the prototypes are now returning to their roots.
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BMW promises the 4 Series Coupe’s chassis technology is a more individual composition than ever before, with the chassis set-up focused on “exhilarating driving performance.” Compared to the 3 Series Sedan it’s derived from, the new 4 Series Coupe has a better drag coefficient (lower by 0.015), is 57 mm (2.2 in) lower and has a 21 mm (0.8 in) lower center of gravity too.
Combined with the increased negative camber at the front wheels and the 23 mm (0.9 in) wider rear track, the 4 Series Coupe will deliver significantly sharper handling characteristics thanks in part to increased lateral acceleration.
BMW also promises comfort levels will remain “excellent” on everyday drives and long journeys thanks to the double-joint spring strut front axle and five-link rear axle configuration. In addition, the lift-related dampers have been tuned for an even sportier drive.
The 2021 BMW 4 Series Coupe also features custom-made tower-to-front end struts and an additional shear panel on the bulkhead to optimize steering precision and response. Furthermore, bracing elements have been added around the rear axle to increase stiffness for improved straight line stability and lateral acceleration.
The engine lineup will also reflect the 4 Series Coupe’s sporty character. Sitting the top of the range will be the M440i xDrive Coupe, powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder engine rated at 374 PS (369 HP). Interestingly, this powertrain will also feature standard 48-volt mild-hybrid technology, with a 48-volt starter-generator and a second battery working together “to both ease the load on the engine and act in unison with it.”
The electric boost effect generates an additional 8 kW (11 PS/11 HP) for improved acceleration. The engine is mated as standard to an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission and xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system. Also favoring the M440i xDrive Coupe’s handling will be the M Sport differential, M Sport brakes, and 18-inch M light-alloy wheels.