Overview

If you’re trying to define a niche model, then the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe is a perfect example. It’s a rakish five-door hatchback that’s based on the two-door 4 Series Coupe, which in turn is based on the big-selling 3 Series saloon. The Gran Coupe might seem like a waste of time (if you want more practicality than the 4 Series Coupe offers, why not just buy a 3 Series?), but it’s available to buyers who still want sporty looks, yet need a bit more practicality – and it’s a popular formula.

Since it’s a niche model, there aren’t many direct rivals for the 4 Series Gran Coupe. The main one is the Audi A5 Sportback, which follows a similar recipe – it’s based on the A5 Coupe, which in turn shares much with the A4 saloon. Mercedes doesn’t actually have a C-Class based rival for the 4 Series Gran Coupe. If you want a multi-door Mercedes coupe, then the choice is either the A-Class based CLA, or the much more expensive E-Class derived CLS.

Elsewhere, the Volkswagen Arteon is a swoopy-roofed five-door exec that’s based on the Passat, while the Peugeot 508 Fastback offers similarly stylish looks. Of course, there’s nothing stopping you from choosing a conventional two-door coupe or four-door saloon instead, and beyond the offerings above, there are cars such as the Alfa Romeo Giulia, Jaguar XE, Volvo S60, Kia Stinger and Genesis G70 within the class.

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Back to the Gran Coupe, and the car certainly has a distinctive look. Its overall body is shared with the all-electric BMW i4, and the striking styling incorporates a wide-opening hatchback, while frameless windows for the doors provide a direct link with the 4 Series Coupe. Inside, the dashboard layout is the same as you’ll find in the 3 Series, with a slightly lower roof line being one of the only giveaways to the car you’re in.

Engines are shared with the 4 Series, so there are only petrol or diesel options (the plug-in hybrid 3 Series doesn’t get a 430e equivalent), while the Gran Coupe doesn’t come as a high-performance M4, either. In another variation over the 3 Series, the car is only offered in higher-spec M Sport trims, further cementing its position as a sporty, upmarket family car.

Over the next few pages we’ll be thoroughly reviewing all aspects of the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe and rating them in our verdict. Our scores will take into account the driving experience, how pleasant the interior is, the practicality on offer and what it’ll cost you to run.

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