PressClub Canada · Article.
The All-New 2015 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé.
Fri Feb 14 00:00:00 CET 2014 Press Release
Third member of the new BMW 4 Series family introduces a new 4-door Coupé into the mid-sized performance luxury segment.
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BMW Group
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Robert Dexter
BMW Group
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Richmond Hill, ON. The new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé adds a fresh dimension to one of the company’s newest model ranges. It combines the sleek look and sporty character of the 4 Series Coupé with the functionality provided by four-doors and a spacious, flexible luggage compartment. The 2015 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé arrives in the Canada in early summer of 2014 with two engine choices. The 428i Gran Coupé will feature BMW’s award-winning 241hp TwinPower Turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder while the 435i Gran Coupé will be powered by the much-lauded 300hp TwinPower Turbo 3.0-liter inline six. The 428i xDrive Gran Coupé will also be available at launch with BMW’s intelligent all-wheel drive system. All versions will be offered with an 8-speed sport automatic transmission. The BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé will make its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2014.
The 4 Series Gran Coupé has been priced on par with its 2-door Coupé counterpart, starting with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $44,900 for the 428i Gran Coupé. The 428i xDrive Gran Coupé will have an MSRP of $49,000, while the top-of-the-line 435i Gran Coupé will have an MSRP of $54,900. A 435i xDrive model will debut later in the summer of 2014 – pricing will be announced at market launch.
While this model shares the same length, width, wheelbase and track with the extremely dynamic two-door version, the roofline of the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé is 112 mm longer and slopes gently to the rear of the vehicle. What's more, the silhouette is 12 mm higher to offer more headroom and comfort for rear-seat passengers. This contributes to increased headroom at all seats and the overall feeling of interior spaciousness. At the same time, the short front and rear overhangs, the long wheelbase relative to the vehicle length, and the set-back passenger compartment are typical BMW touches that add to the perfect balance of the body design and the sleek appearance of this car, which is derived conceptually from the elegant BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé.
Elegant Coupé with the convenience of a Sedan
“Taking its cue from a large BMW Coupé, the new
BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé combines a dynamic and sleek silhouette with
additional functionality and more spaciousness in the rear passenger
compartment.”
Won Kyu Kang, exterior designer responsible for the BMW 4 Series.
Like the two-door version, the sporty dimensions of the 4 Series Gran Coupé are a reflection of its dynamic handling characteristics. The stretched roofline, four frameless doors and a wide, electrically operated tailgate provide the functionality of a sedan within the silhouette of a Coupé. The volume of the trunk is 480 liters, based on EU measurements. The back of the rear seat can be folded down in a 40:20:40 configuration as desired to increase the load capacity to 1,300 liters. The flat floor and a two-part loading strip made of stainless steel are practical convenience elements, combined with premium materials. The BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé can easily transport a baby stroller, two golf bags or weekend luggage for four without using the folding function.
In contrast to a two-door Coupé, the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé offers passengers easier access when entering or leaving the vehicle thanks to the four-door configuration. The doors are frameless, having the characteristic design features of BMW midsize Coupés. The wide-access tailgate blends perfectly with the overall silhouette. When closed, the precise flow of the lid seams simulates the look of a typical Coupé trunk. The standard electric drives that help move the tailgate are installed vertically and require very little space. Thus the area of the rear window is much larger and provides a very good visibility, without limiting available space.
At first glance, the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé is an expression of dynamics and refined elegance. With a length of 4,638 mm, a width of 1,825mm and a wheelbase of 2,810mm, the four-door variant has the same dimensions as the two-door Coupé. The track dimensions of both versions – 1,545mm front and 1,594mm rear – are identical and highlight the dynamic potential of the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé. The silhouette of the four-door model is12mm higher than the two-door. The stretched roofline flows gently across both rear doors and blends into the slightly raised and short rear section of the car.
Athletic, elegant and powerful from any perspective.
The BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé is instantly recognizable from
classic BMW design features such as the iconic kidney grille and dual
round headlight clusters. The body contours are executed with
precision, with multifaceted surfaces that distinguish the
eye-catching look up front. Full LED dual headlights can be ordered as
an option to bolster the dynamic aura of the vehicle. The three-part,
wide air intakes in the front apron emphasize this effect. The extreme
left and right apron corners reveal vertical air channels for the Air
Curtains. They generate a veil of air around the front wheels,
enhancing the aerodynamic efficiency of the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé.
The sides of are distinguished by a bold swage line and a subtle light-catching edge that create the impression of forward movement in the design of the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé. Stretched lines and expressively contoured surfaces generate a dynamic interplay of light and shadows. The gentle slope of the roofline stretches the appearance of the sides even more and visually strengthens the presence of the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé. The taut and smooth appearance of the side windows, with a B-pillar finished in high-gloss black that is nearly invisible, creating a homogeneous profile. The rear edge of the side glass provides a modern interpretation of the Hofmeister kink that is characteristic of BMW vehicles. This extended window surface allows more light into the interior and improves the overall visibility in the rear passenger compartment.
The rear of the car features clear horizontal lines that accentuate its athletic elegance. The taillights are positioned at the outer edges to receive the swage lines, thus serving as transitional design elements that join the body side panels with the rear section. At the same time, they highlight the wide track and powerfully flared wheel arches. When viewed from the rear, the roof of the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé is somewhat wider than that of the two-door version, emphasizing its unique character.
Stylish elegance and sportiness dominate in the interior.
“The interior of the four-door Coupé unifies the seemingly
contradictory character of a dynamic two-door Coupé with the elegance
and utility of a BMW Sedan or a BMW Gran Turismo.”
Tim Shih,
interior designer responsible for the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé.
The interior of the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé presents a stylish fusion of sporty allure and luxury. An approach known as layering – the intelligent utilization of space through the structuring of lines and surfaces into layers – expresses the hallmark BMW driver orientation without compromising the passenger experience. The stylish and functional elegance of the interior is highlighted by prominent round instruments with a black panel look and the free-standing flat-screen iDrive monitor. The cockpit and rear passenger compartment are visually joined by trim strips originating in the instrument panel and extending along the upper sections of the door panels into the rear, and embellished by dual-color window sills. The B-pillar blends into the side panel design and includes flowing graphic effects across the entire surface. The side supports and slender head restraints in the rear seat are contoured for a modern, seemingly molded one-piece look that adds to the sporty character of the 4+1 seater.
The backrest can be folded in 40:20:40 configurations to create more luggage and storage space as required – with a flat floor for easy loading and unloading. When the seat is completely folded down, the maximum volume capacity is 1,300 liters, based on EU measure. If only the center segment is folded, four people can ride comfortably while transporting long and bulky items like snowboards, skis, etc. When not folded down, this middle section provides space for two cup holders. The Smart Open function of Comfort Access is included as part of the Premium Package. This feature automatically opens and closes the tailgate via gesture control – namely a foot movement underneath the rear bumper when arms are full carrying groceries, packages, etc.
Exclusive: BMW Lines
The premium ambience of the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé results from
exclusive colors, high-quality and rich material combinations along
with special design enhancements for a customized look. Standard on
the 428i Gran Coupé is Sport Line, while M Sport Line comes standard
on the 435i Gran Coupé; a new BMW Individual Line is offered as an
option on all variants. These packages endow each 4 Series Gran Coupé
with a particular character and identity by embellishing the interior
and exterior of the vehicle.
Sport Line: In this trim, special body elements are highlighted in black. The subtle B pillar and the nine slats in the chrome-colored kidney grille have a high-gloss black finish, whereas the side window elements are finished in matt black. The air intakes in the front spoiler and the Air Breathers in high-gloss black draw attention to the aerodynamic elements of the BMW 428i Gran Coupé. The sporty look is enhanced even more with 18-inch or 19-inch light-alloy wheels with a dynamic double-spoke design. The rear is also distinguished by dark elements. A black trim strip and a tailpipe embellisher finished in black chrome stand for sporty dynamics. The interior, by contrast, expresses sporty flair with red accents. For example, the inner rings of the dash instruments and contrast stitching on the steering wheel are red. This character can be highlighted further in the 4 Series Gran Coupé with additional options such as the Coral Red Dakota leather interior with red lower dashboard.
BMW Individual Line: Bright chrome that highlights subtle accents contributes to the exceptionally elegant character of the vehicle. The 11 grille slats with chrome-colored fronts and the bright dual crossbar in the front apron’s air intakes are very classy touches. The Air Breathers and high-gloss chrome window details add to the appealing look. BMW Individual 19” light alloy wheels with an intricate multi-spoke design reflect extravagance. From the rear, the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé can be identified by the tailpipe and horizontal trim strip in the rear apron all finished in high-gloss chrome.
A full leather dashboard in supple Walknappa leather adds a new levelof luxury to the interior. The enclosure surrounding the audio system and air conditioning controls, as well as the circular rings highlighting the instrumentation, are eye-catching touches in satin chrome. Premium leather seats, finely crafted with precise stitching, is available in four classic and elegant colors such as Saddle Brown as well as the new Ivory White that is exclusive to the 4 Series Gran Coupé.
M Sport Line: The technology, functions and extraordinary driving dynamics that distinguish every BMW automobile are also evident in the DNA of the 4 Series Gran Coupé. Of course, these can be augmented with the M Sport Line which is available at launch as standard equipment on the 435i Gran Coupé. This equipment package is comprised of elements that emphasize street performance – for example, aerodynamic features like the large air intake up front, the diffuser insert in the rear bumper and rocker panel trim matching the color of the vehicle. The characteristic M styling of the 19” light-alloy wheels adds to the bold impression. Six exterior colors are offered in the M Sport package, including exclusive choices such as Carbon Black Metallic (which is available for the first time on any 4 Series) and Estoril Blue Metallic.
Inside the car, features such as M door sill finishers, an M leather steering wheel and an M driver’s footrest shape the sporty yet elegant ambience. The driver and front passenger can settle into the dynamic-looking and elegant sport seats upholstered in standard Dakota Leather.
Technical features of this package include M Sport suspension and the optional M Sport brakes with calipers in contrasting blue paint finish.
Engines feature BMW TwinPower Turbo technology.
The new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé offers a choice of two powerful
and efficient engines featuring the latest BMW TwinPower Turbo
technology. The range includes the 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder
engine in the BMW 435i Gran Coupé as well as the light and powerful
2.0-liter four-cylinder in the BMW 428i Gran Coupé.
The power from the engines is delivered to the rear wheels via the standard six-speed manual transmission (428i) or eight-speed sport Steptronic transmission (435i). All BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé feature the Auto Start Stop function.
At launch, the BMW 428i Gran Coupé can be optionally equipped with BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive technology.
The performance and torque delivered by ultramodern BMW engines is due in large part to TwinPower Turbo technology. This technology includes innovative solutions such as high-precision direct injection, a turbocharger operating according to the Twin-Scroll principle, double VANOS variable camshaft timing and VALVETRONIC variable valve control. The low-friction engines are also equipped with an aluminum crankcase. This technology package is unrivalled worldwide and combines high performance with utmost efficiency.
BMW 435i Gran Coupé: inline six-cylinder engine with bold
performance, powerful torque and silken smoothness.
The
large-displacement, inline six-cylinder in the new BMW 4 Series
Gran Coupé delivers power with high-revving characteristics and
extraordinary smoothness. The 3.0-liter power plant delivers 300 hp
between 5,800 rpm and 6,000 rpm, thus contributing to the sovereign
dynamics of the new Gran Coupé. Peak torque of 300 lb-ft is generated
as low down as 1,300 rpm and remains on tap up to 5,000 rpm. The new
BMW 435i Gran Coupé sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds.
While official Canadian fuel economy figures are not yet available for
the 435i Gran Coupé, they are expected to be in line with the 435i
Coupé, which is rated at 10 L/100km City/6.1 L/100 km Hwy (equipped
with 8 speed automatic transmission).
BMW 428i Gran Coupé: four cylinders and the ideal balance between
sportiness and efficiency.
Superior performance, spirited power
development, high-revving characteristics and low weight: These are
the qualities of the innovative four-cylinder petrol engine in the
BMW 428i Gran Coupé that ensure a perfect balance between dynamic
performance and efficiency. The BMW TwinPower Turbo engine combines
high-revving characteristics and high-performance output with low fuel
consumption and reduced emissions. The 2.0-liter engine delivers a
maximum power output of 241 hp, which is reached between 5,000 and
6,500 rpm. Peak torque of 258 lb-ft is generated between 1,250 rpm and
4,800 rpm. The new BMW 428i Gran Coupé sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in
just 6.0 seconds. Official Canadian fuel economy figures are not yet
available for the 435i Gran Coupé, however, they are expected to be in
line with the 428i Coupé, which is rated at 8.7 L/100 km City/5.4
L/100 km (equipped with 8 speed automatic transmission).
Eight-speed sport automatic transmission.
Fast gear changes and outstanding shift comfort are qualities
delivered by the eight-speed sport Steptronic transmission. Extra
shift phases keep increases in rpm small between gear changes, and
that contributes to optimal transmission of engine power in every
driving situation. Numerous technological innovations and a remarkably
high degree of internal efficiency ensure that fuel consumption and
emissions do not rise. The intelligent management and control
technology also results in extremely short shifting and response
times, along with direct gear engagement.
The eight-speed sport automatic transmission also rewards drivers with a sporty, “hands-on” experience – they can rely on automatic shifting or manually change gears themselves by using shift paddles on the steering wheel. Drive Mode and Sport Mode are selected with the Driving Dynamics Control on the center console.
The BMW 4 Series Coupé provides the basis for sporting performance.
The suspension of the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé is modeled on
that of the two-door model variant and has the corresponding
dimensions. The wheelbase measures 2,810mm, the track width 1,545mm at
the front and 1,594mm at the rear. The rear track on xDrive variants
is 1,544mm. While the axle and elastokinematics correspond to that of
the BMW 4 Series Coupé, suspension and damping were tailored
exclusively to the four-door version.
Lastly, specific car body reinforcement measures and an innovative strut concept within the front and rear sections of the vehicle help to enhance steering precision and response. Nevertheless, the four-door Coupé is only marginally heavier than the two-door variant and even lighter than its competitors. Consequently, the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé is characterized by driving dynamics, agile handling characteristics and a high level of precision. Ride comfort remains at a very high level, so the dynamic four-door presents itself as a vehicle that is completely suitable for everyday use.
Aluminum double-pivot spring-strut suspension up front.
The front suspension of the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé is based
on the tried and tested double-joint spring-strut aluminum
construction, which combines maximum stiffness with minimum weight and
significantly reduces unsprung masses. Furthermore, a torsion bar
located between the front axle support and the sill creates an overall
stiffer connection between the front wheels and the vehicle. Models
with BMW xDrive all-wheel drive technology feature a special
combination comprising a load-bearing strut and transverse brace. An
additional strut connecting the suspension domes and the bulkhead
significantly enhances the stiffness of the front end. Therefore, the
new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé responds very directly to the driver’s
steering inputs, resulting in sporty and agile handling and allowing
the car to corner effortlessly and with the highest degree of precision.
Five-arm rear suspension for comfort and active driving.
The rear suspension of the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé plays a
critical role in boosting the car’s dynamic ability and motoring
comfort. The proven five-arm concept features extra-wide mounts and
supports on the wheel carriers for track and camber, slightly
repositioned pivot points, ultra-stiff control arms and axle
subframes. It uses thrust arms to connect the suspension with the
body. This layout provides the basis for a sporty overall set-up
combined with excellent comfort characteristics. As a result, the rear
suspension guarantees precise wheel guidance, maximum directional
stability and exemplary ride comfort.
Servotronic as standard, variable sports steering as an option.
The new BMW 4 Series Gran Coup features standard Servotronic
power steering. The system provides speed-sensitive power assistance
and the clearly defined mapping results in sharper steering feel and
feedback. The new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé can be equipped with
variable sports steering as an option. This uses different steering
ratios depending on the amount of lock applied. Only a small amount of
steering effort is required for maneuvering, for example, while
unbeatable tracking and straightline stability at high speeds are guaranteed.
High-performance and lightweight brake system.
The new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé comes equipped with powerful
swing-caliper or fixed-caliper brakes and large, inner-vented brake
discs. The front calipers are made of aluminum. As well as boasting
low unsprung masses, the brakes also give superior heat tolerance,
excellent wet braking performance, ease of use and excellent feel. A
brake pad wear indicator and the Brake Drying function are standard on
all models.
Intelligent lightweight construction: reduced weight, maximum stability.
The weight optimization of all components significantly
influences the dynamic performance of the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé.
Intelligent lightweight design, a complex bodywork construction and
the innovative strut concept all provide a level of body stiffness
that is on par with that of the two-door model variant. This is why
the four-door Gran Coupé provides levels of agility and precision that
one would expect of a BMW sports Coupé. The use of high-strength and
extra-high-strength multi-phase steel as well as tailored blanks –
customized precision components for specific applications – maximizes
the degree of stability at an optimized weight. Crucial,
stiffness-enhancing components are made of micro-alloyed steel. As a
result, the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé features torsional rigidity that
matches that of the two-door model variant.
Aerodynamics: clever detail solutions for reducing consumption.
The reduction of air resistance enhances driving dynamics and
reduces consumption. Optimization measures on the front apron and at
the rear as well as the streamlined, smooth-surfaced underbody help
the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé achieve a remarkable aerodynamic drag
coefficient (Cd) of 0.274. For example, the BMW Air Curtains in the
front apron generate a veil of air that reduces turbulence – and
therefore drag – around the front wheels. In order to further optimize
driving dynamics, the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé features
aerodynamically designed wheel arches and air lips positioned in front
of them. The Air Breathers positioned rearwards of the front wheel
arches divert some of the air flowing through the wheel arches,
thereby reducing air resistance.
Adaptive suspension, M Sport suspension and M Sport brakes.
M Sport suspension with a firmer spring/damper set-up and more
robust front and rear anti-roll bars is included as standard on the
new BMW 435i Gran Coupé. 19” M light alloys are also included in this
particular case. Alternatively, customers may prefer to specify the
Adaptive M Suspension – with its focused sporting set-up and
electronically controlled shock absorbers – which adjusts the damper
mapping to the road surface and driving situation at hand. BMW also
offers an M Sport brake system for the new Gran Coupé. The team of
aluminum fixed calipers (four-piston at the front, two-piston at the
rear) and generously sized discs provide ideal preconditions for very
short stopping distances.
Sportier, more comfortable or more efficient at the push of a button.
In addition to superior driving dynamics, the new
BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé delivers a high level of motoring comfort.
Using Driving Experience Control, the driver can change the vehicle’s
overall characteristic according to each driving situation or personal
preference to either a sporty or comfortable setting. Accelerator
pedal progression, engine response, power steering characteristics and
response thresholds of DSC Dynamic Stability Control are influenced by
this. The system also interacts with the Steptronic transmission and
the optional Dynamic Damper Control. Drivers can select their desired
mode – ECO PRO, COMFORT, SPORT and even SPORT+. Each of these
predefined set-ups activates different settings for the relevant
powertrain and suspension components.
BMW EfficientDynamics: better performance, better fuel economy.
Impressive performance coupled with exemplary efficiency is
based on the BMW EfficientDynamics development strategy, the results
of which are implemented in almost all areas on the
BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé. The optimized fuel economy of the engines,
transmissions delivering a high level of efficiency, the intelligent
lightweight construction concept, honed aerodynamics and other
efficiency-enhancing technologies incorporated into the new
BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé all help to optimize driving dynamics, while
at the same time reducing consumption and emissions.
Package of measures to consistently reduce emissions and
increase the pleasure of driving.
The new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé features an Auto Start Stop
function to bring about additional economy advantages.
Brake Energy Regeneration, which is also a standard feature, ensures
that the generation of electric current for the onboard electrical
systems concentrates on the overrun and braking phases. ECO PRO mode
in particular helps the driver of the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé to
achieve the best possible fuel efficiency. ECO PRO influences the
engine control unit and the characteristic curve of the accelerator
pedal. In addition, it contributes to intelligent energy and climate
management. The driver is also provided with tips on how to reduce
energy consumption even further for the best possible motoring efficiency.
In conjunction with the Steptronic transmission, the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé also features a coasting mode. At speeds of between 50 and 160 km/h, in ECO PRO mode, the drivetrain is disconnected as soon as the driver lifts off the accelerator pedal. As a result, the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé vehicle is able to ‘sail’ without engine power, thereby also achieving maximum fuel efficiency.
The ancillary units are also incorporated into the intelligent energy management system of the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé. Examples include the demand-controlled coolant pump, the map-controlled oil pump as well as electromechanical power steering, whose electric motor only uses energy when power steering is required. The same is true for the on-demand air-conditioning compressor which reduces the system’s power loss to a minimum.
Intelligent lightweight construction reduces consumption.
Systematic lightweight construction plays a major part in
increasing efficiency and agility. This concept is applied in all
areas of development and comprises all components. The targeted
utilization of plastics, state-of-the-art composites and the increased
deployment of aluminum components in the manufacture of engines and
suspensions have helped reduce the weight of the corresponding
assembly groups. All these measures have a positive effect on the
BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé’s driving dynamics.
BMW ConnectedDrive: Comfort, safety and infotainment.
The networking of driver, vehicle and the outside world with new
assistance systems and information and entertainment features is
increasingly enhancing safety and comfort within the vehicle. BMW was
early in recognizing the significance of networking and began
integrating the digital world in its cars many years ago. The
BMW ConnectedDrive systems offered in the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé
either as standard or as an option underline the technological
leadership. The extraordinarily high level of development in mobile
automotive communication is reflected in the fact that even after
purchasing a BMW, customers can, for a limited period of time,
flexibly order and subscribe to a range of technologies and services.
Navigation System: operation with touch controller.
The latest generation of the Navigation System has a
significantly greater breadth of functionality and a high-resolution,
contrast-rich, color display. The graphics of the previous user
interface have been completely revised and the navigation system’s
maps now have 3D elements. The central Control Display is operated in
the familiar way using the ergonomically perfectly positioned iDrive
touch controller in the center console, which now has an integral new,
touch-sensitive surface and proximity sensor technology for even more
convenient use. Users can use their finger to write characters or to
enter destinations in the navigation system. They can now choose
between using their handwriting or conventionally entering the
destinations by rotating and pressing the controller.
Head-Up Display: full-color, high-resolution.
In
the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé, all information relevant to the driver is
presented by the Head-Up Display directly in the driver’s line of
vision. The information from the assistance systems, the navigation
system or information pertaining to speed is projected onto the
windshield in a particularly brilliant resolution using the full color
spectrum. The wide variety of driver assistance systems now available
brings the amount of information that can be shown in the
Head-Up Display to a whole new level.
Advanced Real Time Traffic Information: the smart way to avoid congestion.
The quality of traffic management depends on the quality and
timeliness of traffic data available. The optional ARTTI (Advanced
Real Time Traffic Information) system from BMW transmits data quickly
and accurately via the mobile phone network. A SIM card integrated in
the vehicle receives traffic data in real time and then calculates
routes or detours instantly. ARTTI covers all provincial highways as
well as primary, secondary or even tertiary roads. Data is
additionally obtained from local authority traffic management systems
to provide precise information on traffic density.
Active Driving Assistant warns the driver of potential
collisions – including those involving pedestrians.
The Active Driving Assistant uses intelligently networked
camera-based assistant systems and image processing to detect any
people or vehicles within its field of vision. The movements of
pedestrians are difficult to anticipate – they stop or suddenly change
direction. Therefore, they impose much higher demands on the detection
capabilities of assistant systems than vehicles driving ahead. When
the system recognizes a looming risk of collision, it produces an
acute audible warning and a visual signal appears in the instrument
cluster or the Head-Up Display to alert the driver that he or she is
drawing too close. The system ideally avoids a collision or, should
worst come to worst, significantly reduces the consequences of an impact.
Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function: a system of
many talents.
More active safety and more comfort are provided by the latest
version of BMW’s Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function
(ACC Stop&Go). It uses the data provided by the full-range radar
sensors, continuously measures the proximity of the vehicle ahead and
warns the BMW driver if necessary. Active Cruise Control with
automatic distance control is now available at speeds between 30 km/h
and 210 km/h.
Active Blind Spot Detection and Lane Departure Warning systems use sensors and camera monitoring.
Active Blind Spot Detection and Lane Departure Warning are convenience and safety-enhancing assistance systems. These systems employ radar sensors and use the data from the front camera to alert drivers to potential collision risks when changing lanes or if they veer out of lane unintentionally and also issue a warning when driving too close to the vehicle ahead. The Lane Departure Warning system is only available as part of the Active Driving Assistant.
Speed Limit Info: always up to date.
In conjunction with the Navigation System, Speed Limit Info
helps to keep the driver informed of the speed limit for the current
stretch of road. The front-mounted camera ensures that additional
signs or variable overhead gantry signs are taken into account. In
addition, the system is able to reliably identify and react to
temporary speed limits. When the window wipers are active, the system
also detects signs that are valid in wet conditions only.
Improved sight at night: full LED headlights with High Beam Assistant.
The bright white light emitted by full LED headlights
illuminates the road ahead with an exceptional intensity. The
High Beam Assistant can also adapt to the traffic situation by
switching to low beam. In conjunction with the front camera, the
system reliably detects well lit stretches of road and switches to low
beam when passing through cities, for example. The LED headlights with
High Beam Assistant significantly increase the usage of high beam and
therefore provide for better sight and increased safety when driving
at night. When LED headlights are fitted, the optional fog lights are
also implemented in LED technology, which further accentuates the
premium character of the car’s features and equipment.
Superb overview and convenient parking.
In addition to the rear view camera and PDC
Park Distance Control, customers can also opt for the Surround View
function with Side View and TopView, which provides a bird’s eye view
of the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé and the area around it, enabling the
driver to carry out precise maneuvers in tight spaces. If the car’s
speed is under 20 km/h, the Side View function can additionally be
activated to allow the driver to keep an eye on cross traffic.
Convenience is further enhanced by the BMW Parking Assistant system
which is able to maneuver the car into parking spaces parallel to the
direction of travel. Ultrasonic sensors detect possible parking spaces
while driving by and the system perfectly maneuvers the car into the
parking spot if desired. The driver controls the speed by applying the
accelerator and the brake pedal as well as switch between the forward
and reverse gear.
Services and apps: innovative services and infotainment in its
purest form.
Due to the ever-increasing popularity of
smartphones and other digital devices, Internet, apps and digital
services have been an integral of everyday life for some time now.
BMW ConnectedDrive offers high-performance interface technology and
provides top-of-the-range infotainment and entertainment capability
that enables the driver and passengers to make extensive use of
external mobile phones and music players. Through the optional
ConnectedDrive Services, the world of apps can be integrated into the
vehicle. Browser-based BMW online applications are loaded directly
into the vehicle via an embedded onboard SIM card. These applications
put at the driver’s disposal online services such as weather, news or
office functions. Smartphone apps allow in-car use of innovative
services like Stitcher, Audible, Amazon Cloud Player, Twitter or Facebook.
The latest-generation Navigation System features a full speech recognition function and an optimized voice control system to complete the portfolio of office functions offered by BMW ConnectedDrive. The full speech recognition system enables drivers to dictate text freely and compose short text-based messages by voice. In addition, Internet-based services, as well as calendar entries and text-based messages, can still be viewed in the Control Display of the iDrive operating system and read out via the Text to Speech function.
The all-new 2015 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé lineup arrives in Canadian showrooms in early summer of 2014.
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