BMW: This is how the M440i power coupe drives 🎥
Based on the three-series sedan, BMW has developed the new four-series, a beautiful coupe with a decidedly sporty design. An open-top version will be added as a parallel model in spring 2021. With 374 hp and 500 Nm of torque, the M440i coupe achieves impressive performance. With gigantic double kidneys, the first pictures of the new three- [...]
With 374 hp and 500 Nm of torque, the M440i coupe achieves impressive performance.
With gigantic double kidneys, the first pictures of BMW's new three- and four-series models startled many a fan of the Bavarian brand. However, there were both enthusiastic and negative reactions right from the start.
Long doors and elegant slender columns
Eye to eye with the M440i xDrive in dark blue, our test vehicle, there is no sign of a design shock. Although the double kidney is unusually large, it fits in well with the front end. Finally, the narrow headlights and the lower air intakes are also strong design elements.
Incidentally, the 4.77-meter-long newcomer displays a classic coupe silhouette with long doors and slim pillars.
Inside, the new sports seats with the automatically extending and retracting seatbelt holders and the new steering wheel are striking. Two rear seats are also available - but less suitable for tall people due to the design.
Three-liter diesel coming next year
Two-liter four-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engines with 184 and 258 hp power the rear-wheel-drive 420i and 430i models, while the 420d's two-liter diesel engine with 400 Nm and 190 hp can drive only the rear wheels or all four wheels. A three-liter diesel will also be added in March 2021.
The top model, the M440i xDrive, is always equipped with all-wheel drive. In the new version, its three-liter in-line six-cylinder engine produces 374 hp and 500 Nm of torque. As this is already available at less than 2000 rpm, the sports four has a power delivery similar to that of a diesel.
The sound is controlled with flaps
Like all engines in the new series, the six-cylinder is equipped with 48-volt mild hybridization and combined with an 8-speed converter transmission. As a result, the M440i can also sail along economically, but it rather encourages a sporty pace. The turbo engine responds quickly to gas pedal commands and is then on the spot with plenty of torque and a distinctive, flap-controlled sound.
Power transmission with 4×4 as required
When cornering at speed, the Coupé benefits from the adaptive sports suspension and the increased body stiffness as well as the precise steering. The all-wheel drive system with its rear-wheel-drive set-up ensures that power is transmitted precisely as required, resulting in perfect handling and optimum traction and safety reserves.
The new 4-series coupés will be available at dealerships at prices starting at 54,700 Swiss francs (420i), and 79,600 Swiss francs for the M440i xDrive. From mid-March 2021, the convertibles will join them with a starting price of 60,400 francs.
