Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 4 Series |
| Generation | 4 Series Coupe (F32) |
| Type (Engine) | 425d (218 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.7-5.9 l/100 km (41.3 – 39.9 US mpg, 49.6 – 47.9 UK mpg, 17.5 – 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1-4.3 l/100 km (57.4 – 54.7 US mpg, 68.9 – 65.7 UK mpg, 24.4 – 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.7-4.9 l/100 km (50 – 48 US mpg, 60.1 – 57.6 UK mpg, 21.3 – 20.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 124-128 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 247 km/h (153.48 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.9 kg/Hp, 144.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.3 kg/Nm, 299 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 218 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 450 Nm @ 1500 rpm (331.9 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N47D20D |
| 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 | 1505 kg (3317.96 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2025 kg (4464.36 lbs.) |
| Max load | 520 kg (1146.4 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 445 l (15.72 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%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4638 mm (182.6 in.) |
| Width | 1825 mm (71.85 in.) |
| Height | 1377 mm (54.21 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 | 8 gears, automatic transmission Steptronic |
| 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; 225/45 R18; 255/40 R18; 225/40 R19; 255/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18; 8.5J x 18; 8J x 19; 8.5J x 19 |
The BMW 425d Coupe Steptronic, launched in 2014, was a significant offering within the F32 4 Series range. Built on the foundation of the successful F30 3 Series, the 4 Series Coupe aimed for a more premium and style-focused experience. The 425d variant specifically targeted buyers who desired a balance between performance, fuel efficiency, and comfort. It occupied a middle ground in the lineup, offering a step up from the base 420d while remaining more accessible than the higher-performance 435i and 440i models. The “Steptronic” designation indicated the inclusion of BMW’s 8-speed automatic transmission, a popular choice for its smooth operation and efficiency.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 425d lay the N47D20D 2.0-liter inline-four diesel engine. This engine was a cornerstone of BMW’s diesel offerings during this period, known for its robust construction and efficiency. The N47 featured a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. A single twin-scroll turbocharger, with intercooling, provided forced induction, boosting power and torque. The engine utilized four valves per cylinder and a timing chain for durability. The 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission, a ZF-sourced unit, was integral to the driving experience. It offered both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles or the gear selector. The transmission’s wide gear ratios contributed to both fuel efficiency and responsive acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 425d Steptronic delivered a refined and comfortable driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as its gasoline-powered siblings, it offered ample power for everyday driving and confident highway cruising. The 450 Nm (331.9 lb-ft) of torque, available from just 1500 rpm, provided strong low-end and mid-range acceleration. The 8-speed automatic transmission shifted smoothly and intelligently, adapting to driving conditions and driver input. Compared to the 6-speed manual versions, the Steptronic offered a more relaxed driving experience, particularly in urban traffic. However, some enthusiasts found the automatic transmission slightly less engaging than the manual option. The 0-60 mph time of around 6.2 seconds was respectable for a diesel coupe, and the car felt stable and composed at higher speeds.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 425d Steptronic came standard with a generous array of features. Interior appointments typically included cloth upholstery, although leather options were readily available. Standard equipment included automatic climate control, a BMW iDrive infotainment system with a central display screen, power-adjustable front seats, and a multi-function steering wheel. Optional extras included leather upholstery, a premium sound system, navigation, parking sensors, and a sunroof. BMW offered various packages that bundled popular options together, allowing buyers to customize their vehicles to their preferences. The interior design emphasized a driver-focused layout with high-quality materials and a modern aesthetic.
Chassis & Braking
The F32 4 Series Coupe featured a sophisticated chassis design. The front suspension utilized independent coil springs and struts, while the rear employed an independent multi-link setup. This configuration provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling precision. The 425d 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 steering system was a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power assistance, offering precise and responsive steering feel. The suspension tuning was slightly softer than that of the higher-performance models, prioritizing comfort over outright track performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 425d Steptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined driving experience. Reviewers noted that the diesel engine provided ample power for most driving situations, and the 8-speed automatic transmission enhanced the overall driving experience. Compared to the 420d, the 425d offered a noticeable performance upgrade. However, the 435i and 440i models, with their more powerful gasoline engines, provided a more exhilarating driving experience, albeit at a higher price point and with lower fuel economy. The 425d represented a sweet spot for buyers seeking a balance between performance, efficiency, and luxury.
Legacy
The N47D20D engine, while generally reliable, has been known to exhibit some issues with timing chain wear and glow plug failures. However, with proper maintenance, these engines can provide many years of reliable service. The 8-speed Steptronic transmission has also proven to be durable and dependable. On the used car market, the 425d Coupe Steptronic remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a stylish and efficient coupe. Its combination of performance, fuel economy, and comfort continues to appeal to a wide range of drivers. The F32 4 Series, as a whole, is considered a well-rounded and desirable coupe, and the 425d variant represents a particularly compelling option within the lineup.
