Used BMW 4 Series cars for sale

4 Series models come in three different varieties. The lineup starts with the two-door, four-seat Coupe model or, for sunny days, you can get the two-door, four-seat Convertible. There’s also the slightly elongated 4 Series Gran Coupe, which is a five-door, five-seat part-saloon-part-coupe that offers a little more passenger space.

If you’re shopping for nearly new 4 Series models you’re likely to come across both current and previous-generation 4 Series models. The previous model was introduced in 2013 and sold until the end of 2020, while the current version arrived in the UK in early 2021. Inevitably, the newer version will feel more up to date, but pre-2021 cars still come loaded with technology and represent great value for money. Both old and new 4 Series cars look quite similar but can be told apart by small details such as the new model’s enlarged front grilles that stretch below the number plate, or the old model’s headlights, which subtly join the edges of the grille frame.

The 4 Series is an elegant coupe with the dimensions to match. 2021 and newer Coupe and Convertible models are nearly 4.8 metres long, making them longer than a 3 Series saloon (4.7 metres) and not far off a 5 Series (4.9 metres). Gran Coupe models gain an extra 15mm in length compared to the two-door versions. 2020 and older 4 Series models are all a touch over 4.6 metres long.

The sizeable dimensions translate to a spacious cabin, especially in Gran Coupe models, where there’s enough room for five adults to squeeze in for shorter journeys. However, the coupe-like roofline does mean rear-seat passengers get a little less headroom than in a 3 Series. Boot space is decent for most models (convertible versions of the 4 Series are a bit lacking in this department), with enough room for two large suitcases, or much more if you fold the rear seats.

BMW likes to call its cars the ultimate driving machines, so it’s a good thing that most nearly new versions of the 4 Series turn up to battle with a fair bit of firepower under the bonnet. The vast majority of cars come with smooth eight-speed automatic gearboxes, but a handful of 2020 and older models come with the six-speed manual alternative.

Entry-level 420i petrol and 420d diesel models are far from underpowered, but the 430 versions of both are a better bet if you want your BMW to feel as fast as it looks. Beyond those lie the 435d and M440i which are much more serious performance cars, or the full-fat BMW M4 if you want a proper thrill on a track day.

Maintenance costs are usually higher for premium and upmarket manufacturers. BMW fits into this category so you should budget a little more money to keep your 4 Series running smoothly than you might for a car from a more affordable brand.

Diesel-powered 4 Series models come with a diesel particulate filter (DPF). This can clog up if you don't take the car on the occasional long drive, which usually means an expensive cleaning job, or an even more costly replacement. Make sure your driving needs suit a diesel car before buying one.