Is the controversial kidney grille now more attractive with a license plate?
BMW revealed the Concept 4 at the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show. This was a major styling update for the next-generation 4 Series Coupe. This is clearly a new interpretation of the corporate kidney grille, which draws inspiration from models of yesteryear but is larger to fit the current car’s significantly larger proportions.
We have seen a lot of spy shots using the new. Coupe Its convertible sibling, but this is our favorite view of the front fascia. The vertical grille is almost completely exposed in this photo. It may be because the license plate isn’t as large as the one on the concept. This is a good thing, as many have complained about the showcar’s large grille.
It is what BMW calls an “Active Air Stream Kidney Grille”, as the flaps appear to be closed in order to increase the car’s aerodynamic efficiency. The flaps open automatically when the engine requires more air to cool off. The grille is less flashy without the thick chrome frame that the Concept 4 had. Dare we say, it looks even better. The trim level and optional packages will determine if the 4 Series Coupe will have either this blacked out look or the shiny finish of the showcar.
The grille, blue brake calipers, and the dual exhaust tips suggest that this is the M Performance version. This prototype, which is right-hand drive and sits just below the M4 full-fat version, could be the M440i. It is a two-door variant of the 3 Series Sedan-based . This four-door model can be ordered with either rear- or all-wheel drive. It is powered by a turbocharged inline six 3.0-liter engine that produces 382 horsepower and 369 pounds-feet (500 Newton meters) of torque. These output numbers make M340i the most powerful non M 3 Series model.
Side note: BMW just launched an M340d sedan/wagon in Europe. It features a diesel 3.0-liter straight-6 engine that produces 335 horsepower and 516 lbft (700 Nm) of torque. Although it’s not yet certain whether a 4 Series Coupe with similar engine will be available, diesels are still very popular in parts of the Old Continent.
The next-generation 4 Series Coupe will debut later in the year. It will have a slightly different appearance to last year’s model and almost the same oily tech as the 3er.