When the BMW 4 Series appeared last year, many observers categorized it as a coupe version of the 3 Series sedan on which it's based. But 4 Series offers more than sportier styling, which is probably why BMW saw fit to create a new category for it. It’s a confident performer with a certain athleticism of its own.
What's New For 2015
Aside from minor equipment shuffling, the 435i is unchanged.
Choosing Your BMW 435i
The 435i is available as a coupe or convertible, and either can be outfitted with BMW's xDrive all-wheel drive system. Power comes from a turbocharged 3-liter six-cylinder with 300 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. A six-speed manual is available on rear-drive models as a no-cost option.
All examples start out with premium features like xenon headlights, a sunroof, Bluetooth audio, driver memory settings and HD radio. Convertibles carry a power-retractable hardtop and wind blocker.
In addition to the standard model, the 435i and 435 xDrive are available in three optional lines— Luxury, Sport and M Sport—each with its own wheels, leather upholstery and exterior trim. The Luxury offers wood interior trim and chrome exterior accents, while Sport and M Sport carry sport seats and gloss black trim. The M Sport comes with an aerodynamic body kit for a decidedly aggressive appearance.
All models can receive a variety of option packages. The Premium package gets you leather seats, satellite radio and keyless ignition. A navigation system comes in the Technology package, along with a larger display screen and a suite of useful smartphone apps. LED headlights with automatic high beam control are part of the Lighting package. There's also a Cold Weather package with neck-warming air vents (convertible only), heated seats and a heated steering wheel.
The Driver Assistance package furnishes a rearview camera and front and rear parking sensors. A Plus version of the same adds blind spot monitoring, a surround-view camera system and speed limit information. Finally, the Dynamic Handling handling package provides sport-tuned suspension and steering systems.
In addition to all that, there's a slate of individual options for your inspection, including upgraded brakes, a power rear sunshade, adaptive cruise control, a 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and an automated parallel parking system.
If you're primarily attracted to the 435i for its style, adding one of the optional trim lines will certainly enhance your enjoyment of the car. If you're going the coupe route in search of extra performance, we recommend adding the Dynamic Handling Package and upgraded brakes.