2018 BMW 430

BMW announced the 2018 lineup of its 4 Series, which again includes the coupe, convertible and Gran Coupe "four-door coupe" variants. The new model year brings updates inside, outside and under the hood — perhaps most notably, a stiffer suspension and enhanced steering intended to enable a sportier driving experience.

BMW says suspension tweaks reduce roll and provide greater stability, and the improvements apply to the standard, M Sport and Adaptive M suspension systems. All 4 Series models are available in the following trims: the 248-horsepower 430i, 430i xDrive all-wheel-drive version, 320-hp 440i and 440i xDrive all-wheel-drive equivalent. The engine is mated to a standard eight-speed automatic transmission or an optional six-speed manual.

In addition to suspension tuning, BMW says the 4 Series also gets a wider stance and longer wheelbase than the outgoing version. Updated styling cues in front include hexagonal full LED twin headlights, an expansive central air intake with high-gloss black-finish surrounds, flat-bottom headlight tubes surrounded by daytime running light rings forming an "eyebrow" design, standard LED front fog lamps and optional adaptive headlights. The automaker describes the new LED arrangement as creating a "sharper gaze" for the 4 Series.

In back, the revised 4 Series also gets full LED taillights, which remain in the familiar L-shaped orientation but are restyled. BMW says the "bold horizontal lines and elongated design of the rear light clusters make the muscular wheel arches stand out," while the higher positioning of the reflectors make the rear end appear lower.

New exterior paint colors exclusive to the 4 Series include Snapper Rocks Blue Metallic and Sunset Orange. That's in addition to available, model-exclusive 18- and 19-inch alloy wheels.

Inside the cabin, new finishes adorn the air outlets, door-mounted control panels and center console. The instrument panel gets double-stitch detailing, while the standard sport steering wheel is wrapped in leather. New interior colors include Midnight Blue Dakota, Cognac Dakota and Ivory White Dakota leather, all with contrast stitching and piping. New Carbon Aluminum interior trim is also available.

Other new features include an optional navigation system with a new six-tile, driver-configurable interface; wireless smartphone charging; Apple CarPlay smartphone integration; and the BMW ConnectedDrive digital mobility-management system. Another new feature is the Multifunctional Instrument Display, available with the Executive Package, offering three selectable modes, including classic Comfort, efficiency-highlighting Eco Pro and performance-focused Sport, each displaying the info most relevant to its area of emphasis.