BILBAO, Spain — The biggest source of controversy surrounding the introduction of the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé has nothing to do with any mechanical or styling aspect of the sporty new fastback, but with marketing. Aided by much liquid refreshment and a generally cantankerous nature, our group of auto writers were having a spirited debate at the dinner table as to whether the Gran Coupé should be labeled a 4 Series — as per BMW’s new numeric system of identification, even numbers indicate two-door coupe variants, odd numbers for sedans — or, because this new family member has four doors, it should be designated a 3 Series.
Though the majority seemed to side with the 3 Series naming, it was a moot argument; the designation’s a done deal. It must be said, though, that the unfortunate BMW executive at the table gamely defended his company’s decision for the rounded fastback nature of the car’s styling making it a coupe, regardless of doors.
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There’s precious little else to generate controversy; the Gran Coupé is mechanically similar to the rest of its 3 and 4 Series brethren, as well as the new X4 sport-ute, meaning an enhanced level of sportiness to the drive. All that it adds is a new dimension to the model ranges, combining a sleeker and sportier outline than the 4 Series Coupé with the functionality that comes with four doors and a more spacious and flexible cargo area. Arriving in 428i, 428i xDrive and 435i variants shortly, the lineup will be joined by a 435i xDrive later this summer.
There are no major surprises inside the 2015 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé, with an easy-to-navigate layout that should be familiar to anyone who’s driven a late model 3 Series or 4 Series Coupe.
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Defining the Gran Coupé is its roofline, the four doors and a wide power tailgate that together provide the functionality of a sedan with a coupe’s profile. Trunk volume is 480 litres with the 40/20/40-split rear seat up, 35 litres more than the Coupé. With the seat backs folded down, cargo capacity increases to a very usable 1,300 litres. BMW says the Gran Coupé can easily transport a baby stroller, two golf bags or weekend luggage for four without using the folding function. If only the centre segment is folded, four people can be accommodated while transporting long and bulky items such as snowboards, skis, etc. The Smart Open function, included as part of the Premium Package, automatically opens and closes the tailgate via foot movement underneath the rear bumper when arms are full.
Dimensionally, the Gran Coupé sports the same length, wheelbase, track and width of the two-door Coupé. With a length of 4,638 mm, a width of 1,825 mm and a wheelbase of 2,810 mm, the four-door variant has the same dimensions as the two-door Coupé. The only difference is the Gran Coupe’s height; the roofline sits 12 mm higher toward the rear section. That said, much like the new X4 SUV, there’s plenty of legroom and headroom up front, not as much for taller passengers in the back seats, exacerbated by the slope of the roofline.
My driving partner and I were given a 428i to test out on the hilly roads outside of Bilbao, in the north of Spain. With 241 horsepower from the 2.0-litre turbocharged four going to the rear wheels through an optional eight-speed Steptronic transmission (a six-speed manual is standard on the 428i) — as well as a 258 pound-feet of torque plateau that starts at a low 1,250 rpm and hangs on to 4,800 rpm — the car impressed with its ability to tackle the undulating and twisty route. While the 435i will naturally deliver more oomph on the hilly parts, the 428i’s 2.0T has no flat spots when powering up the same inclines and, when the roads flatten out, will not embarrass itself when delivering a quick six-second run to 100 kilometres an hour.
Defining the Gran Coupé is its roofline, the four doors and a wide power tailgate that together provide the functionality of a sedan with a coupe’s profile.
Handout, BMW
Far from unexpected given its lower height, weight and centre of gravity compared with the X4 sport-ute, the 4 Gran Coupé is the better handler of the two, with far less body lean when cornering and a generally more planted feel. In comparison with the 4 Series Coupé, suspension and damping were tailored exclusively to the Gran Coupé.
Inside, the Gran Coupé’s dash layout is all but identical to anyone familiar with a late-model 3 and 4 Series, X3, X4 and others of similar size and intent — sporty and functional without the fripperies. Some fripperies can be added, however, with optional trim lines — exclusive colours, richer materials and design enhancements for a less spartan look. Standard on the 428i Gran Coupé is Sport Line, while M Sport Line comes standard on the 435i; a new BMW Individual Line is optional on all variants.
Looks are in the eye of the beholder, yet there is certainly a prettier appearance to the 428i Gran Coupé than that of the 3 Series sedan and, without a doubt, the 3 Series Gran Turismo. And it is a nice addition to the 4 Series Coupé line for those who desire the extra practicality of the added cargo space. But, I just can’t grasp the need to do this. It seems to me BMW already has the whole utility/sporty dynamic in a compact size covered by several existing models. Why the need for yet another? Nice as it is, I don’t see the Gran Coupé being anything more than a niche with the 4 Series brand.
The Gran Coupé has been priced on par with the two-door modeĺ, starting at $44,900 for the 428i. The 428i xDrive will have an MSRP of $49,000, while the top-of-the-line 435i will be priced at $54,900.
Trunk volume is 480 litres with the 40/20/40-split rear seat up, 35 litres more than the Coupé. With the seat backs folded down, cargo capacity increases to a very usable 1,300 litres.
Handout, BMW