Introduced last year for the 2014 model year, BMW’s F32 series replaces the E92 platform, otherwise known as the 3-Series coupe and convertible. The 3-Series from now on will remain exclusively as a 4-door line, meaning this new generation of two-door BMWs is called the 4-Series. As the name implies, the 4 offers more than the 3 it takes over from and is not just a mere update. The 4-Series is lower, wider, longer and more spacious than the outgoing car but manages not to gain any weight. It is also stiffer and achieves a perfect 50:50 weight distribution. The 3-Series has always been a widely admired car, but now it seems that BMW has taken another big step forward. In the US market, we so far get the choice of the four-cylinder turbo 428i or the straight-six turbo 435i, while the Europeans get a 420i and a few diesel options. Other than the recently released M4, the hottest of the range is the 435i, and we were lucky enough to have our test car loaded with the M Sport, Dynamic Handling, Lighting and Premium Packages.
Most important for our purposes are of course the M Sport and Dynamic Handling Packages. Checking the M Sport box gets 18″ M alloy wheels, larger air inlets in the front apron, a rear apron with a diffuser insert, M Sport brakes and stiffer springs, damper and anti-roll bars. On the inside, you get sports seats with “M” script, while there are other such reminders on places like the sill cover strips and steering wheel. The $1,000 Dynamic Handling Package, meanwhile, also includes the M suspension as well as variable steering, which is a variable ratio system that allows for more precise and agile input in higher speed situations and for easier movement in slower speed situations like parking. Finally, the Premium Package includes satellite radio, keyless entry and keyless start, while the Lighting Package includes adaptive LED lights and automatic high beams.
