The sexy coupe offshoot of the BMW 3 Series, the 428i promises to turn more heads and perform with more gusto that its sedan relatives. Its refined athleticism makes a strong appeal to buyers shopping on the sporty end of the compact luxury segment.
What's New for 2016
Last year's optional Sport Line trim, consisting mainly of gloss black exterior pieces and sport seats, is now standard. An anti-theft alarm becomes standard as well. Some carryover options have been repackaged into the new Luxury and Track Handling packages.
Choosing Your BMW 428i
The 428i is available as a coupe or convertible, and either can be outfitted with all-wheel drive. The sole engine remains a turbocharged 2-liter four-cylinder good for 241 horsepower, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Rear-drive models can also get a no-cost six-speed manual. Convertibles carry a power-retractable hardtop and wind blocker as standard equipment.
All models start out with premium features like xenon headlamps, a sunroof, driver memory settings, Bluetooth audio, and HD radio. Leather seating is available individually or as part of Premium package, which also gets you satellite radio and keyless ignition. Premium-equipped models are eligible for a Luxury package with chrome exterior accents, wood or aluminum interior trim, a saddle brown lower dash (instead of black), and non-sport seats if desired.
You can take the 428i in another direction with the M Sport package, which provides an adaptive suspension, specific wheels, aerodynamic body trim, and a sports steering wheel. The Track Handling package (available with or without the full M Sport treatment) contributes 18-inch wheels, upgraded brakes, sport-tuned steering, and the M Sport suspension.
A navigation system comes with the Technology package, which also adds a larger display screen and a suite of integrated smartphone apps. The Lighting package tacks on LED headlamps with automatic high-beam control. The Cold Weather package adds neck-warming air vents (convertible only), heated seats, and a heated steering wheel.
Safety gets a boost from the Driver Assistance package with 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 data. Adaptive cruise control is a standalone option.
Additional options include a 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, an automated parallel parking system, and a rear power sunshade.
Although the option packages are reasonably priced, adding too many makes the 428i downright expensive. We recommend concentrating your options budget on either luxury or performance -- not both.
Read our review on the BMW 428 »