The quest for the ideal car often involves a series of compromises. “If only Car X had rear-wheel drive,” or “Car Y would be perfect with a manual transmission” are common refrains among automotive enthusiasts. In a world of seemingly endless choices in entertainment and even dating, the automotive market can sometimes feel surprisingly restrictive when it comes to tailoring a vehicle to specific desires.
Enter the 2018 BMW 4 Series, a model that stands out for its remarkable configurability. Whether you prefer the engagement of a six-speed manual or the convenience of an eight-speed automatic, rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (xDrive), the 4 Series offers a spectrum of combinations. Under the hood, buyers can choose between the efficient yet potent 430i with its 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine, or step up to the more powerful 440i and its 3.0-liter six-cylinder. And the versatility doesn’t end there – the 4 Series is available as a sleek coupe, a stylish convertible, or the practical four-door Gran Coupe. In total, BMW boasts an impressive array of 24 possible configurations for the 4 Series, even before considering the various trim and design packages.
For this review, we focus on what many driving purists might consider the “sweet spot” of the lineup: the 2018 BMW 430i coupe equipped with a manual transmission and rear-wheel drive. This configuration promises a blend of engaging driving dynamics and everyday usability, and we spent a week behind the wheel to see if it delivers.
Minor Updates for 2018, Familiar Appeal
The 2018 model year brought subtle refinements to the BMW 4 Series, changes that are likely to be appreciated most by dedicated BMW aficionados. The front and rear fascias received a styling refresh, and the interior saw updates to the instrument cluster and trim materials, lending a slightly more modern touch.
Two new exterior colors were also introduced. While “Sunset Orange” is a welcome addition, it’s the “Snapper Rocks Metallic Blue” that truly captivates. This vibrant, eye-catching hue is arguably one of the most striking paint options available on any car today, and it consistently drew admiring glances throughout our test. Beyond these minor tweaks, however, the 2018 4 Series coupe remains fundamentally the same car that debuted in 2014, effectively succeeding the 3 Series coupe in BMW’s model lineup. Its core appeal – a blend of sporty handling, refined luxury, and distinctive styling – remains intact.
Backroad Performance and Daily Comfort
Our 2018 BMW 430i test car was equipped with the optional adaptive M suspension, a feature designed to provide both spirited backroad driving and comfortable daily commuting. On the drive home from San Francisco’s Roadshow HQ, the “Comfort” mode of the suspension lived up to its name, effectively absorbing bumps and providing smooth acceleration from a standstill. The steering in this mode is light and effortless at lower speeds, gaining appropriate weight and feedback as speeds increase.
While our test car opted out of many driver-assistance systems, the 430i proved to be easy to maneuver with excellent straight-line tracking and ample visibility. Features like blind-spot monitoring and lane-keeping assist were not missed in most driving situations. However, navigating heavy Bay Bridge traffic did highlight the desirability of adaptive cruise control, a feature that was omitted in favor of the engaging six-speed manual transmission.
The true test for the 430i came on a favorite stretch of winding backroads. Initially, engaging “Sport Plus” mode seemed like the natural choice. This setting sharpens throttle response, firms up the suspension to its stiffest setting, and adds significant weight to the steering. However, it quickly became apparent that “Sport Plus” was perhaps too aggressive for public roads. While the enhanced throttle response was appreciated, the overly heavy steering felt cumbersome in tight corners, and the firmest suspension setting proved unforgiving on less-than-perfect road surfaces. “Sport Plus” is likely best reserved for track driving, where smooth surfaces and predictable conditions prevail.
Switching to the standard “Sport” mode revealed a more balanced and enjoyable setup. Throttle response remained quick and engaging, but the ride quality became noticeably more compliant and better suited to the undulating surfaces of backroads. The 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque from the turbocharged four-cylinder engine felt more than adequate for spirited driving on these twisty roads. Staying primarily in third gear, the 430i demonstrated ample power for attacking corners, suggesting that the more powerful 440i might not offer a significantly enhanced experience in this type of driving scenario.
Despite the generally positive driving experience, a couple of minor drawbacks were noted. The manual transmission incorporates rev-matching, a feature that cannot be disabled. While beneficial for novice manual drivers, automatically rev-matching on downshifts eliminates the opportunity for experienced drivers to practice heel-toe shifting techniques. Additionally, the run-flat tires, while offering peace of mind in case of a puncture, contribute to a ride quality that is firmer than ideal, especially on rougher roads.
Snapper Rocks Metallic Blue: A Standout Shade
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See all photos of the 2018 BMW 4 Series in Snapper Rocks Metallic Blue
Regardless of these minor quibbles, the overall driving sensation in the 430i is one of engaging excitement without feeling overtly edgy or uncontrollable. For 2018, stiffer front and rear roll bars contribute to the car’s nimble and responsive handling, making it feel like a true “pocket rocket” that eagerly dives into corners. Skilled drivers who utilize trail braking techniques to manage weight transfer will find even greater levels of control and precision, while those simply seeking weekend driving enjoyment will find the 430i immensely fun and rewarding.
While the rear-wheel-drive chassis allows for playful moments, the car remains composed and planted, even as the run-flat tires voice their protests under hard cornering. The brakes are firm and confidence-inspiring, exhibiting no noticeable fade even after repeated hard use. The driving experience is so engaging that turning around for another run on the same stretch of road becomes irresistible.
For drivers prioritizing straight-line acceleration, the 440i model with its 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine, producing 320 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque, would be the more potent choice. However, for backroad driving and overall balance, the 430i’s smaller powerplant proves to be perfectly satisfying. Remarkably, despite enthusiastic driving, the 430i still managed to achieve an average fuel economy of 26.6 miles per gallon, exceeding the EPA combined rating of 25 mpg.
iDrive Infotainment and Technology
While our 2018 430i test car was lightly optioned in terms of driver aids, it was equipped with BMW’s iDrive infotainment system, featuring the optional 8.8-inch screen with navigation. iDrive is controlled through a rotary dial located on the center console, surrounded by physical buttons for frequently used functions like map, radio, and media. The top of the rotary dial also incorporates a touchpad that recognizes handwriting inputs, simplifying address entry for navigation.
The iDrive system, while offering a wealth of features and customization options, maintains a generally intuitive user interface. It is responsive and relatively easy to navigate, although smartphone integration presents some limitations. Android Auto is not available at all, and Apple CarPlay is a $300 standalone option. Even with CarPlay, wireless connectivity can be inconsistent. In one instance, after responding to a text message via CarPlay, the system failed to automatically return to the terrestrial radio station that was playing previously, instead defaulting to music stored on the connected iPhone.
BMW’s approach to Apple CarPlay is also noteworthy. For 2019 models, CarPlay was initially offered for free for the first year, but subsequently transitioned to a subscription model at $80 per year – a pricing strategy that has drawn criticism.
One particular BMW quirk is the behavior of the radio after the car is turned off. The radio continues to play until the doors are locked. Many other manufacturers program the radio to shut off automatically when the driver’s door is opened. This small detail is a matter of personal preference, but some may find BMW’s approach less convenient.
Interior Design and Comfort
The interior of the 2018 BMW 4 Series presents a modern and well-executed design, characterized by clean lines, premium leather upholstery, and metallic trim accents. The overall layout is logical and ergonomically sound, although some may prefer the more retro-futuristic aesthetic found in contemporary Mercedes-Benz models.
One minor drawback is the limited storage space within the center console. The compartment is shallow and struggles to accommodate anything larger than a smartphone and sunglasses case. In contrast, the door pockets are generously sized, providing ample room for water bottles and wallets.
The rear seats, while typical for a coupe, offer reasonable comfort for shorter journeys. Legroom is adequate for occupants of average height (around 5’9″), but the seatback angle is somewhat reclined, resulting in a seating position where knees are positioned higher than the hips. Combined with the two-door body style, exiting the rear seats can be slightly less than graceful.
Spec Recommendation and Market Positioning
The base price of the 2018 BMW 430i started at $43,300. For our ideal configuration, we would largely mirror our test car: the 430i coupe with the manual transmission and rear-wheel drive. The Snapper Rocks Blue paint remains an essential option at $550. The Premium Package, priced at $2,300, is also highly recommended, as it includes desirable features like heated front seats and upgrades the standard 6.5-inch iDrive screen to the larger 8.8-inch display.
Driver-assistance features such as lane departure and forward collision warnings are bundled into a $500 package, which could be considered optional depending on individual preferences. For those opting for the automatic transmission, adaptive cruise control is available as a standalone $1,200 option.
For driving enthusiasts, the Track Handling Package, priced at $1,700, is a worthwhile investment. It includes adaptive suspension, upgraded brakes, variable sport steering, and non-run-flat tires, significantly enhancing the car’s dynamic capabilities. If budget is a concern, the adaptive suspension can be added as a standalone option for $700.
Equipped with these options, our ideal 2018 BMW 430i configuration would come in around $52,695, which places it firmly in the competitive luxury sport coupe segment. The 4 Series faces strong rivals from traditional German competitors, as well as compelling alternatives from Korean, Japanese, and Italian automakers. The Kia Stinger offers exceptional value with strong performance and striking design. The Audi A5 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class generally offer more powerful engine options. The Alfa Romeo Giulia boasts distinctive Italian styling and engaging dynamics, although its infotainment system lags behind competitors. The Cadillac ATS, while aging, remains a solid performer in the segment.
Emme’s Comparable Picks:
Ultimately, the 2018 Bmw 4 Series 430i is a compelling choice in the small luxury car segment, particularly for buyers who value a wide range of drivetrain and body style options. However, it competes in a crowded and highly competitive market. A thorough test drive is essential, and we highly recommend seeking out roads with plenty of curves to truly appreciate the 430i’s strengths.
