BMW 430i 2017 Review

What’s it all about?
The 4 Series is a relatively recent BMW marketing invention. Effectively, it’s a badge swap – '4' replaces '3' for the coupe, cabrio and gran coupe versions of the German luxury brand’s most famous model line.

It’s the same thought process that prompted Audi to split the A5 ‘sporting’ models – which are direct competitors for the 4 Series - from the ‘mundane’ A4 sedan and wagon.
In this case we’re testing the BMW 430i two-door four-seat coupe which replaced the previous 428i and is powered by a new 185kW/350Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that mates to an eight-speed automatic and drives the rear wheels.

It sits above the 420i (with a lower-tuned version of the same engine) and 420d turbo-diesel but below the inline six-cylinder turbo-petrol 440i. Of course, keep pushing further upscale and you eventually arrive at the wonderful M4.

Meanwhile, here are some other 4 Series tests we’ve conducted recently:

How much will it cost?
The BMW 430i retails for $79,900, some $2500 less than its 428i predecessor. That aggressive price shift was prompted by last year’s arrival of the new-generation Mercedes-Benz C-class coupe.

At that RRP, the BMW 430i still cops the luxury car tax impost, but a sub 6.0-litre (5.8L/100km) fuel consumption average does deliver a discounted rate from Canberra.

Standard equipment highlights include adaptive suspension, bi-Xenon headlights, head up display, satellite navigation, surround view and reversing cameras, a full suite of airbags and 19-inch alloy wheels.

More advanced new age stuff includes approach control warning, lane departure warning, lane change warning, pedestrian warning, a light city braking function and parking assistant. ConnectedDrive provides web-based weather, Google and news.

Missing are Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and there’s no spare tyre because Bimmers roll on run-flat tyres.

Two different trims are available as no cost options, M Sport (as tested) and Luxury Line. If you want to spend extra money then don’t worry, BMW has lots of stuff for you to invest in.

On that list is the $3641 Innovations pack which includes active cruise control with Stop&Go function.

The 430i comes standard with condition-based servicing that you can pay for in advance for five years or 80,000km. There’s also a three year/unlimited km warranty and three years free roadside assistance.

Why should/shouldn’t I buy it?
The 430i coupe is perhaps the best looking of all BMW 4 Series models, with its peeled back headlights, slimline kidney grille and gorgeously resolved falling roofline.

But that positive also leads to a negative; form has been favoured over function in the roof shape and rear seat head room will challenge tall people.

Continuing the form and function theme, driving the BMW 430i falls between the two. It is neither as sharp as the looks suggest, or as softened as some coupes can be.

The engine has good response but doesn’t inspire emotion like the old inline sixes which previously wore the ‘30i’ badge and no matter which mode is selected, the electric-assist steering is inarticulate by BMW’s traditional standards.

The ride quality is decent in Comfort mode until the road conditions get harsh, then the limited travel and run-flat tyres make things too jarring. Road noise on coarse surfaces is also an issue.

The interior presentation is, however, a distinct improvement on BMWs of yore. The M Sport package in our test car was highlighted by sports seats for driver and front seat passenger which provided comfort and support.

Compared to its competitors, on price, the BMW 430i predictably undercuts the C300 Benz and new 185kW Audi A5 quattro, but is more expensive than either the Lexus RC350 or the new Infiniti Q60.

When is it available in Australia?
The BMW 430i - coupe, convertible and four-door gran coupe - has been on-sale in Australia since May 2016.

A mid-life refresh arrives in July.

Who will it appeal to?
Not family buyers that’s for sure. The BMW 430i coupe is a couple’s car at best, with rear-seat passengers little more than an after-thought.

The boot is a decent size though…so that couple can pack for a substantial trip.

Where does it fit?
The BMW 4 Series is officially classified in the ‘sports over $80,000’ category where it goes head-to-head with credentialed rivals from Europe and Japan.

Its sibling, the 4 Series Gran Coupe, ranks fifth in motoring.com.au’s 2016 motoring recommends Best Prestige Cars Under $100,000 category.

So what do we think?
Overall the BMW 430i doesn’t provide the sizzle its enticing looks seem to preview. It drives without the sheer elan we’ve traditionally expected of BMW and a little more character would be nice.

2017 BMW 430i Coupe pricing and specifications:
Price: $79,900 (plus on-road costs)
Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol
Output: 185kW/350Nm
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic
Fuel: 5.8L/100km
CO2: 136g/km
Safety: N/A