The BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe (F36) 425d Steptronic, primarily produced during the 2016 model year, represents a compelling combination of practicality and performance within the BMW 4 Series range. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it blended the sleek, coupe-like styling of the Gran Coupe body style with a fuel-efficient and reasonably powerful diesel engine. The F36 generation, built on the F30 3 Series platform, aimed to provide a more stylish and versatile alternative to the traditional 3 Series sedan, appealing to buyers seeking a premium four-door coupe experience. This specific 425d variant was targeted towards drivers prioritizing fuel economy and comfortable long-distance cruising, while still desiring the BMW driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 4 Series |
| Generation | 4 Series Gran Coupe (F36) |
| Type (Engine) | 425d (224 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.2-5.7 l/100 km (45.2 – 41.3 US mpg, 54.3 – 49.6 UK mpg, 19.2 – 17.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.2-4.8 l/100 km (56 – 49 US mpg, 67.3 – 58.9 UK mpg, 23.8 – 20.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 120-127 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 247 km/h (153.48 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7 kg/Hp, 143.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.5 kg/Nm, 288.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 224 Hp @ 4400 rpm |
| Torque | 450 Nm @ 1500-3000 rpm (331.9 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | B47D20B |
| 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 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1560 kg (3439.21 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2120 kg (4673.8 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 | 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 | 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) | 0.29 |
| 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 98W; 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 425d Gran Coupe is BMW’s B47D20B 2.0-liter inline-four diesel engine. This engine is a member of BMW’s modular engine family, known for its efficiency and refinement. It utilizes a sophisticated common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The engine is turbocharged with a twin-scroll turbocharger, enhancing both low-end torque and overall power output. An intercooler further cools the intake air, increasing density and improving performance. The B47 engine is known for its relatively quiet operation compared to earlier diesel engines. Paired with this engine is BMW’s 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. This transmission is renowned for its smooth and quick shifts, contributing to both performance and fuel efficiency. The Steptronic transmission offers both automatic and manual shift modes, allowing the driver to tailor the driving experience to their preferences.
Driving Characteristics
The 425d Steptronic delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the 224 horsepower and 450 Nm (331.9 lb-ft) of torque provide ample power for everyday driving and confident overtaking. The 8-speed automatic transmission is well-matched to the engine, providing smooth gear changes and keeping the engine within its optimal power band. Compared to the more powerful 435i or 440i models, the 425d prioritizes fuel economy and ease of driving over outright performance. The automatic transmission, while convenient, does slightly diminish the responsiveness compared to the available manual transmission. However, the Steptronic transmission’s adaptive learning algorithms adjust shift points based on driving style, optimizing for either efficiency or performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 425d Gran Coupe typically came equipped with a generous array of standard features. These included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a BMW iDrive infotainment system with a central display screen, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included features like a premium sound system, navigation, heated seats, a sunroof, and various driver-assistance systems like lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally offered packages that bundled popular options together. The interior design emphasized a driver-focused layout with high-quality materials and a modern aesthetic.
Chassis & Braking
The F36 4 Series Gran Coupe features a sophisticated chassis design. The front suspension utilizes independent coil springs, while the rear employs an independent multi-link suspension. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling precision. The 425d typically came equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The braking system is augmented by ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic stability control, enhancing safety and control in various driving conditions. The suspension tuning was generally geared towards comfort, but still offered a reasonably engaging driving experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 425d Gran Coupe was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and stylish design. However, some reviewers noted that it lacked the outright performance of its more powerful siblings. Compared to the 420d, the 425d offered a noticeable power increase, making it a more compelling option for drivers who frequently travel long distances or carry passengers. Against competitors like the Audi A5 Sportback and the Volkswagen Passat CC, the 425d offered a more premium driving experience and a more refined interior. Fuel economy figures consistently placed the 425d among the leaders in its class.
Legacy
The B47 engine, found in the 425d, has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain, although some early models experienced issues with the timing chain. Proper maintenance, including regular oil changes and adherence to BMW’s recommended service intervals, is crucial for long-term reliability. On the used car market, the 425d Gran Coupe represents a good value proposition, offering a blend of style, comfort, and fuel efficiency at a reasonable price point. Its reputation for reliability, combined with the BMW brand cachet, makes it a popular choice among used car buyers seeking a premium four-door coupe.
