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Some people were quick to condemn BMW for introducing the 4 Series Gran Coupe in 2014. This is just a sleek 3 Series with a hatchback instead of a boot lid, so in some ways, it is a superfluous product. Nevertheless, after eight years, the model is still alive and well. So much so that the Bavarians have gone to the trouble of giving the M440i xDrive the M Performance treatment.
Although a full M4 Gran Coupe is out of the question, the M440i still offers excellent performance. The G26 drives on an unrestricted part of the Autobahn in Germany to try it out without fear of a speeding ticket. In classic BMW tradition, the sleek AWD – and automatic-only liftback might be more powerful than claimed.
Because compared to the German manufacturer’s promises, the sprint from 0 to 62 mph (100km/h) took only 4.36 seconds or about 0.4 seconds. For a non-M car, completing the quarter-mile in 12.42 seconds is not unusual. It took 11.72 seconds to accelerate from 62 to 124 mph (100 to 200 km/h) and a little less than 20 seconds for the half-mile.
At 155 mph (250 km/h), the M440i Gran Coupe broke the electronic speed limit. Those looking for a sportier variant will be satisfied with the new ALPINA B4. It was announced a few weeks ago, so the actual unveiling should be soon. For those who want to go all-electric, there’s always the i4 M50.
BMW’s claimed 374 horsepower at the crankshaft should be sufficient for most people. This is especially true when one considers that production is most likely underestimated. Many would not be shocked to see the inline-six put that much power into the wheels. In terms of adaptability, few other vehicles from Bavaria can match the M440i Gran Coupe.
