The svelte lines of BMW’s new 4 Series are really growing on me. I was slightly undecided about the aesthetic qualities of the Four when we recently had the 435i on test, but the 428i has convinced me that BMW’s newcomer is the most beautiful car in its class.
Obviously, there aren’t many differences between the 435i and 428i in terms of appearance. The latter’s front end is just as distinctive and menacing as that of its six cylinder sibling, and this particular model came kitted out with 19-inch multispoke alloys that, along with the deep blue metallic paint finish, actually make the 428i look understated, almost demure.
I’m a fan of the interior as well. This model’s mocha-coloured leather upholstery works well with the wood trim that lines the cabin. The facia, especially the audio and ventilation controls, seems neater and more aesthetically pleasing. My only complaint is that the new iDrive navigation dial doesn’t feel as nice in my left hand; its flatter surface makes the edge of the knob seem sharper.
It’s spacious too – two adults can fit in the individual seats behind the front seats in relative comfort, despite the sleeker roofline. And even though the rear end is significantly more compact than that of the 3 Series, the boot is quite cavernous too.
BMW’s rake and reach-adjustable steering column, as well as the range of adjustment in the driver’s seat, made finding my ideal driving position a breeze. The four-cylinder turbopetrol doesn’t sound like anything special at idle, but once the powerplant’s spinning merrily it’s actually quite rorty.
The 428i’s outputs are nothing to scoff at, but along with its “as tested” mass of 1 600 kg, I didn’t expect the coupe’s performance to be breathtaking. I was pleasantly surprised however, to find that the experience is still what I’ve come to expect from the brand. Maximum torque is produced at a very low engine speed, so quick progress only really requires a firm prod of the throttle.
Overall, the eight-speed automatic transmission is quite brilliant. Low-speed traffic crawling doesn’t make the 428i break a sweat and enthusiastic tugs on the steering-wheel’s shift paddles make the scenery rushes by a bit faster. Sure, there is a bit of oomph lacking at the top end of the rev range, but for most people, the 428i’s capabilities should be more than adequate.
At half a million rand, do I think the 428i is worth it? On looks alone and given its pleasing proportions, I’d say yes. But personally, there’s not enough poke available from this motor for all that money. It ticks all the other boxes, however.
Specifications*
Model: BMW 428i
Price: R540 500
Engine: 2,0-litre, four cylinder turbopetrol
Transmission: eight-speed automatic
Power: 180 kW at 5 000-6 500 r/min
Torque: 350 N.m at 1 250-4 800 r/min
0-100 km/h: 6,3 seconds**
Fuel consumption: 6,30 L/100 km
CO2: 147 g/km
Top speed: 250 km/h
Maintenance plan: 5 years/100 000 km
* Manufacturer claim
**As tested
