BMW has subtly tweaked its 4 Series Coupe and Convertible for 2024, fitting the executive models with a few external updates and some fresh technology features, as well as some other minor changes. However, the engine range remains more or less unchanged, with production of diesel versions continuing alongside 2.0- and 3.0-litre petrol options when the car goes on sale this spring.
Lightly modified bodywork
External changes to the new 4 Series aren't immediately apparent, but look closely and you'll spot new headlights that stand out on the front of the vehicle. With new LED clusters, the lights feature vertical, arrow-shaped signatures that house daytime driving lights and turn indicators.
And vehicles with blue inlays (or dark inlays, if the M Shadowline specification is also chosen) in their headlight clusters have the optional Adaptive LED Headlights, with their 'non-dazzling' matrix high beam systems. Examples fitted with the Adaptive LED Headlights will also get Laserlight rear lights, using technology first seen in the special-edition BMW M4 CSL. The system uses fibre-optic bundles to create an intricate light graphic, and it makes its debut in a volume-production BMW.
Other tweaks include small modifications to the front grille and the exhausts, the latter of which have grown by a centimetre in diameter. New paint options, including Cape York Green and Fire Red, have been added to the range, while new light alloy wheel designs have also been included for the first time.
Revamped cabin
Inside, BMW has fitted the 4 Series with some new technology features for the Curved Display that dominates the dashboard. For starters, the latest-generation infotainment system includes a new climate control interface that reduces the number of physical switches in the cabin, but allows easier adjustment of temperature and ventilation systems from the touchscreen, or through voice commands. It also provides a new and more intuitive menu structure and screen personalisation system.
At the same time, there is now an ambient lighting system that can be adjusted for colour to suit the driver's preference, and includes an animation to welcome occupants to the cabin and to signify an incoming phone call or an open door.
In addition, BMW has added a new steering wheel design, while vehicles with the M Sport package will get a flat-bottomed steering wheel with a discreet centre marker on the rim. Illuminated multifunction buttons and gearshift paddles are standard, too, while new colour schemes are available for the interior and the selection of interior trim strips has been reworked.
Similar engine range
As before, BMW will continue with its selection of 2.0- and 3.0-litre petrol and diesel engines for the 4 Series, and there's no sign of a plug-in hybrid option on the horizon. However, BMW hasn't abandoned hybrid power altogether, because there's plenty of 48-volt mild-hybrid technology on display in the new 4 Series range.
All the six-cylinder, 3.0-litre engines will get mild-hybrid tech, and the 2.0-litre, four-cylinder diesel will also use a similar system. All those engines will not only offer ample conventional power, but brake energy recuperation will be stored in a 48-volt battery, then used to provide an 11hp boost to improve efficiency, as well as ensuring the electrical ancillaries are run more efficiently.
Clever tech
Perhaps the biggest update to the 4 Series comes in the on-board technology, where BMW has introduced an optional Augmented View function that comes with the head-up display. That supplements the map display with a live video of the driver's view, overlaid with information such as directional arrows to help drivers take the right turn. It will also show supplementary information for parking.
What's more, BMW has introduced extra personalisation options through the My BMW App, which allows drivers to import their settings using a combination of the app, infotainment system and vehicle key. The system also allows drivers to lock and unlock the doors, or set the destination address from a smartphone so it's ready and waiting when they start the car.
Irish pricing of the updated BMW 4 Series
The updated 4 Series Coupe and Convertible are already available to configure on BMW Ireland's website. Pricing starts at €62,525 for the 420i M Sport Coupe and €77,177 for the same version in the Convertible body style.