2021 BMW 4 Series

BMW’s sedans and SUVs regularly earn CR’s recommendations for packing industry-leading comfort and technology into vehicles that are agile, quick, and even fuel efficient. Among luxury brands like Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Lincoln, and Land Rover, BMW’s SUVs often rank near the top of their category. Models like the X5 are remarkable for having powertrains that accelerate quickly while also managing above-average fuel efficiency. Some BMWs can be bought as plug-in hybrids, with useful electric-only range, or in performance trims, with more powerful engines and stiffer suspensions. BMW’s growing roster of EVs also generally rank high in our tests. Like most luxury cars from European manufacturers, BMWs fall on the expensive side of our assessments of maintenance and repair costs, but some specific models are a good option to buy used. However, shoppers considering a preowned BMW should opt for warranties or budget for repairs.

The redesigned 2021 BMW 4 Series shares most components with the 3 Series sedan, but they are packaged in a sleeker two-door coupe form. Two turbocharged engines are available: a 255-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder and a punchy 382-hp, 3.0-liter six-cylinder that uses a 48-volt mild-hybrid setup to support accessories without hurting fuel consumption. The eight-speed automatic is smooth and responsive. Rear- and all-wheel drive are available. We found the 4 to be agile and fun to drive yet refined and luxurious. The iDrive infotainment system is quick and capable but takes some getting used to. FCW, AEB with pedestrian detection, BSW, and rear cross traffic warning are all standard. ACC and LCA are optional. The infotainment system was updated in 2024 with a larger, curved display and touchscreen-based climate controls. A 2025 refresh brought styling changes and an infotainment update to iDrive 8.5.