BMW 4-Series due for launch in 2014

BMW is currently the biggest niche product manufacturer in the world and they are about to add another niche line up to their range – the BMW 4-Series.

Based on the next-generation 3-Series, due in 2012, the 4-Series will sit between the 3-Series and the 5-Series, as is obvious by its designation.

We initially thought the car will carry the 3-Series GT badge, just like its philosophical sibling, the 5-Series GT. However, the Munich company wanted the model to sit separately to the smaller 3-Series and to complement the range.

It is essentially a 5-door hatchback with a mild coupé proportion. There will be a raised seating position at the back, plus the option of two or three seats. It will also come with a split tailgate that can be hinged either at the bootlid or opened like a hatchback.

The 4-Series will be pitched directly at Audi’s A5 Sportback, which in my opinion, is much better looking. It will borrow design cues from the 5-Series GT with slimmer headlights and a wide upright kidney grille.

The 4-Series will sit on a stretched version of BMW’s new rear-wheel-drive architecture. Emphasis however, will be on a comfortable ride instead of a sporting drive. There is also the option of xDrive all-wheel-drive versions in certain markets. The engine line up consists of the latest four and six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, including a new 183kW 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol unit introduced on the X1.

There will also potentially be a 3-cylinder petrol engine, currently being developed for the i1 city car.

The 4-Series is expected to go on sale in 2014.

Photo: AutoExpress