It might not seem too long ago when we first laid eyes on the notorious grille of the second-gen BMW 4-Series back in June 2020, but the automaker is already working on a mid-lifecycle update for the model. A trio of camouflaged prototypes was nabbed by our spy photographers in different specifications, hinting at subtle changes.
All three prototypes are the two-door BMW 4-Series Coupe G22 with the Life Cycle Impulse (LCI) updates. The silver example comes fitted with the M Sport Package, while the other two are most likely M440i variants. There is a rumor that BMW might discontinue the standard bodykit option from the facelifted 4-Series range, dressing all trims with the M Sport bumpers.
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At the front, the sporty bumper intakes and the uncovered grille look nearly identical to the current model. The situation is similar in the case of the M440i, although the covered grille is likely hiding some changes. All prototypes feature redesigned LED graphics on the headlights, mirroring the boomerang-style DRLs of newer BMW models like the facelifted X5/X6.
Predictably, the profile remains uncovered, since the Bavarian automaker has nothing to hide besides the possible addition of new alloy wheel designs and new shades for the color palette. At the back, the red film on the taillights keeps us from seeing the new LED graphics which appear to adopt a simpler style. Finally, the M Sport rear bumper is carried over, at least at this stage of development and despite all the camouflage wrap which could hide some differences in the trim.
The 4-Series and the M4 received a host of interior updates for 2023 so we don’t expect significant changes with the upcoming facelift. After all, the model already has the BMW Curved Display with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch touchscreen, steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, and a new gear selector. In terms of infotainment software, BMW has already announced the Android-based Operating System 9 which will be gradually applied across the entire range.
At the moment, we don’t have any information about the future engine lineup, but a greater focus on electrification should be considered a given.
Production of the facelifted BMW 4-Series is expected to start in early 2024 when the second generation will be four years old. It is safe to assume that besides the Coupe (G22) the aforementioned updates will also be applied in the Cabriolet (G23) and Gran Coupe (G24) bodystyle variants of the 4-Series.
