What's all this about?

BMW has updated the 4 Series, albeit in a fairly minor way. Don’t expect huge changes to the bodywork – not even that grille – but there are a few visual tweaks inside and out, and there are some new tech features.

I can’t really tell the difference from here…

No, we had that problem, too. Look closely, though, and you’ll notice there are some new headlights with little arrow motifs. But perhaps more noticeable are the new rear lights, which use the Laserlight technology first seen on the M4 CSL. This is the first time the tech, which uses fibre-optic strands to create fine detail in the light cluster, has been used on a mass-production car.

Right. Have they done anything else?

Outside? Not much. There are some minor tweaks and new paint colours, but otherwise it’s all much the same as before.

What about the inside?

There’s more to report in the cabin, where BMW has fitted its latest-generation infotainment system. That means there’s a new climate control interface that’s supposedly more intuitive, and there’s a new, flatter menu structure with configurable widgets on the main display. It also comes with new features, including an optional augmented navigation system that displays a live view of the road ahead on the driver instrument display, then overlays navigation instructions to make it easier to find the right turning.

Other new features include a new steering wheel with gear shift paddles as standard, and there’s a new selection of interior trims. But more remarkable is the ambient lighting system, which adapts to the scenario, with animations to tell you when you have an incoming phone call or when a door is open. Naturally, you can choose the colour of the lights themselves.

And under the bonnet?

Nope, not much to report here, either. As before, you’re looking at much the same range of 2.0- and 3.0-litre petrol and diesel engines, with no prospect of a ‘self-charging’ or ‘plug-in’ hybrid. But BMW hasn’t abandoned hybrid tech altogether in the 4 Series, and mild-hybrid tech is found on most 3.0-litre engines and the 2.0-litre diesel. Every engine, mild-hybrid or otherwise, comes with an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

The M4 Competition models have had a refurb, too, getting the same light and interior treatment as the ‘cooking’ 4 Series models, and continuing with a choice of rear- and all-wheel-drive.

You mentioned the Coupe and the Convertible. What about the Gran Coupe?

An excellent question, and one BMW hasn’t yet answered. We’re expecting it to get much the same update in the coming weeks, however.

So how much more will I pay for these new lights?

We don’t know yet. But BMW will be launching this new model in the coming months, so we’re sure to find out soon.

James Fossdyke - 31 Jan 2024