BMW shows off new 2014 4-Series [Video]

BMW has released a video highlighting its all-new 4-Series coupe, which replaces the 3-Series coupe in the automaker's lineup for the 2014 model year.

More evocatively-styled than before, the 4-Series rides on the 3-Series' platform but features wider front and rear tracks and a lower suspension designed to give it both the look and the performance of a sports coupe. Notably, BMW says it has the lowest center of gravity of any BMW on the market.

Helping the 4-Series slice through the air, BMW has fitted its Air Curtain and Air Breather aerodynamic aids, which push air around the car in the most efficient manner possible. 

The changes aren't as big inside, where the car shares the sedan's dashboard. Sportier seats that sit lower to the floor will be included, however. On the options list will be what BMW calls a "new generation" of its navigation system.

The rear backrest folds down in 40:20:40 segments for added utility. When the center section is folded, it acts as a ski or snowboard slot. Like on BMW's sedans, a swipe of a foot under the bumper can open the trunk when the optional Comfort Access package is ordered.  

For the North American market, BMW will offer both 428i and 435i variants, which feature powertrains identical to the 3-Series sedan. 

The 428i includes the automaker's 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine, while the 435i bumps amps things up with a 3.0-liter turbo inline six-cylinder.

The four-cylinder cranks out 240 horsepower and 255 lb-ft. of torque, which gives the 428i a 0-60 mph sprint of just 5.7 seconds with the optional summer performance tires.

Opt for the 435i and buyers will net 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft. of torque. With a stick shift, the 435i accelerates to 60 mph from a stop in 5.3 seconds, while the automatic model does the same job in a mere 5 seconds flat while riding on optional summer tires. 

BMW will offer both engines with a choice of six-speed manual or (no cost) eight-speed automatic and either rear or optional ($2,000) xDrive all-wheel-drive.

Underneath, BMW has slightly reworked the 3-Series sedan's suspension to give the car a 0.7 inch lower roll center. Additionally, a strut located between the front axle's subframe unit and the body stiffens the car's front end for more precise handling and steering. At the rear, BMW has also reworked some of the sedan's five-link suspension to give the car a more precise feel.

BMW's electric power steering is standard, while its Variable Sport electric steering is included with the available Dynamic Handling Package to give the car a quicker ratio depending on how much steering lock the driver has called upon. That package also brings with it driver-adjustable dampers to stiffen up the car's ride at the press of a button.

Ordering sheet
Four trims will be on offer with both engines - a standard package, a Sport Line, a Luxury Line and a performance-oriented M Sport. Each variant includes its own interior and exterior trim changes, much as BMW currently offers on the 3-Series sedan. 

Sport Line models include high gloss black accents outside and red trim bits inside. An anthracite headliner further sports up the mood from the driver's seat. Rear-drive Sport Line models will also include a tightened sports suspension.

Ordering the Luxury Line trim adds chrome and matte black touches to the outside plus additional chrome and high gloss wood inside. A 4-Series-exclusive Ash Grain anthracite wood trim package is also included.

M Sports go further than Sport Lines with an aero-oriented exterior bodykit and unique M division-designed wheels, steering wheel and door sills. On the function side, M Sports include a sport suspension (with rear-wheel-drive) and, on 435i models, M Sport brakes (available as a stand alone option on all 428is and standard trim 435is).

BMW's heritage-laced Estoril Blue paint scheme is offered exclusively on the M Sport. Both M Sport and Sport Line models include identical suspension settings. 

When they hit the market this summer, the 428i will start at $41,425 and the 435i will list from $46,925 including destination. Option for all-wheel-drive adds $2,000 to the bottom line for both models.