The BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe (F36) 420d, produced from 2014 to 2015, represented a compelling entry point into BMW’s sleek four-door coupe range. Positioned as a diesel-powered variant within the F36 generation, it aimed to deliver a balance of performance, efficiency, and practicality. This model occupied the lower-mid range of the 4 Series Gran Coupe lineup, slotting below the more powerful 428i and 435i gasoline models, and offering a more economical alternative to those options. The 420d was primarily marketed towards European consumers seeking a refined and fuel-efficient grand tourer, though it was also available in select international markets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 4 Series |
| Generation | 4 Series Gran Coupe (F36) |
| Type (Engine) | 420d (184 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 124 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 236 km/h (146.64 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.2 kg/Hp, 121.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm, 251.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 184 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 92.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 380 Nm @ 1750-2750 rpm (280.27 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N47D20C |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 (121.74 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1510 kg (3328.98 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2070 kg (4563.57 lbs.) |
| Max load | 560 kg (1234.59 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1300 l (45.91 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 57 l (15.06 US gal | 12.54 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 745 kg (1642.44 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4638 mm (182.6 in.) |
| Width | 1825 mm (71.85 in.) |
| Height | 1389 mm (54.69 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2810 mm (110.63 in.) |
| Front track | 1545 mm (60.83 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1594 mm (62.76 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 130 mm (5.12 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.3 m (37.07 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/50 R17 94W |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 420d Gran Coupe is the BMW N47D20C engine, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is a member of BMW’s highly regarded N47 family, known for its efficiency and refinement. The N47D20C utilizes a second-generation common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at pressures up to 1800 bar for optimized combustion. A single twin-scroll turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, provides forced induction, boosting power output to 184 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2750 rpm. The engine also features variable valve timing (Double-VANOS) and variable turbine geometry (VTG) on the turbocharger to enhance responsiveness and efficiency. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, providing precise gear changes and contributing to the car’s engaging driving experience. An 8-speed automatic transmission was also available as an option.
Driving Characteristics
The 420d Gran Coupe, equipped with the manual transmission, offered a surprisingly engaging driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as its gasoline-powered siblings, the 420d delivered ample torque for everyday driving and confident overtaking maneuvers. The manual gearbox, with its well-defined gate and relatively short throws, encouraged driver involvement. The automatic transmission, while smoother, did slightly diminish the sense of connection. The car’s rear-wheel-drive layout contributed to balanced handling, although traction could be limited in wet conditions. Compared to the 428i, the 420d felt less eager to rev, but its superior fuel economy and lower running costs made it a more practical choice for many drivers. The 420d’s suspension provided a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 420d Gran Coupe came standard with a respectable level of equipment, including automatic climate control, BMW’s iDrive infotainment system with a 6.5-inch display, power-adjustable front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Upholstery was typically cloth, but leather options were available. Common optional extras included a larger iDrive screen, navigation system, premium sound system, sunroof, and parking sensors. Sport Line and Luxury Line trim packages were also offered, adding unique styling cues and additional features. The Sport Line featured more aggressive exterior styling and sport seats, while the Luxury Line emphasized comfort and elegance with chrome accents and wood trim.
Chassis & Braking
The F36 4 Series Gran Coupe utilized a sophisticated chassis design, featuring an independent suspension at all four corners. The front suspension employed coil springs and struts, while the rear suspension utilized a multi-link setup. This configuration provided a good balance of ride comfort and handling precision. The 420d Gran Coupe was equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) were standard safety features. The car’s weight distribution was nearly 50/50, contributing to its balanced handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 420d Gran Coupe was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its fuel efficiency, refined engine, and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the outright performance of its gasoline counterparts. Compared to the 428i, the 420d offered significantly better fuel economy – around 50 mpg combined – but acceleration was noticeably slower. The 420d also proved to be more reliable than some of the earlier N47 engines, with fewer reports of timing chain issues. Its combination of practicality, efficiency, and style made it a popular choice for buyers seeking a premium grand tourer.
Legacy
The BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe (F36) 420d has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The N47 engine, while not without its potential issues (particularly regarding the timing chain), has generally proven durable with regular maintenance. Today, these cars represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking a stylish and efficient coupe. Parts availability is good, and maintenance costs are reasonable. The 420d Gran Coupe remains a popular choice for those who prioritize fuel economy and refinement over outright performance.
