The BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe (F36) 430d Steptronic, produced from 2014 to 2016, represents a compelling blend of practicality and performance within the 4 Series lineup. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it catered to buyers seeking a more efficient and refined experience than the higher-performance gasoline variants, while offering more power and sophistication than the entry-level 420d. This model combined a potent diesel engine with BMW’s Steptronic automatic transmission, packaged within the stylish Gran Coupe body style – a four-door coupe offering increased versatility compared to the traditional two-door 4 Series.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 4 Series |
| Generation | 4 Series Gran Coupe (F36) |
| Type (Engine) | 430d (258 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.9-6.1 l/100 km (39.9 – 38.6 US mpg, 47.9 – 46.3 UK mpg, 16.9 – 16.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.6-4.8 l/100 km (51.1 – 49 US mpg, 61.4 – 58.9 UK mpg, 21.7 – 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.1-5.3 l/100 km (46.1 – 44.4 US mpg, 55.4 – 53.3 UK mpg, 19.6 – 18.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 134-138 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.2 kg/Hp, 160.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.9 kg/Nm, 348.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 258 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 560 Nm @ 1500-3000 rpm (413.03 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N57D30A |
| Engine displacement | 2993 cm3 (182.64 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| 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 | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.2 l (7.61 US qt | 6.34 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1605 kg (3538.42 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2165 kg (4773.01 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%) | 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 | 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 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 430d Gran Coupe is BMW’s N57D30A 3.0-liter inline-six diesel engine. This engine is a member of the highly regarded N57 family, known for its robust construction and refined power delivery. The N57D30A utilizes a common rail direct injection system, injecting fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. It’s equipped with a twin-scroll turbocharger and intercooler, boosting power output to 258 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and a substantial 560 Nm (413 lb-ft) of torque available from a low 1,500 rpm, sustaining through 3,000 rpm. This broad torque curve is a hallmark of the N57 engine. The engine features four valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 16.5:1. Paired with the engine is BMW’s 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. This transmission offers smooth and quick shifts, contributing to both performance and fuel efficiency. The Steptronic transmission allows for manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles or the gear selector.
Driving Characteristics
The 430d Gran Coupe delivers a refined and capable driving experience. The high torque output of the diesel engine provides strong acceleration in everyday driving situations, with the 0-60 mph sprint taking approximately 5.3 seconds. While not as overtly sporty as the gasoline-powered 435i, the 430d offers ample power for confident overtaking and highway cruising. The Steptronic transmission is well-tuned, providing seamless gear changes and contributing to a relaxed driving experience. The gear ratios are optimized for both fuel efficiency and performance, with taller gears for highway cruising and shorter gears for quicker acceleration. Compared to the 420d, the 430d offers a noticeable performance upgrade, while remaining more economical than the 435i. The handling is typical BMW – precise and engaging, with well-weighted steering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 430d Gran Coupe came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a BMW iDrive infotainment system with a central display screen, and a suite of safety features like ABS, stability control, and multiple airbags. Common optional extras included a navigation system, a premium sound system, heated seats, a sunroof, and adaptive suspension. Trim levels varied depending on the market, but generally included Sport, Luxury, and M Sport packages, each adding unique styling and equipment enhancements. The Sport package typically included sport seats, sport suspension, and unique exterior styling cues, while the Luxury package focused on enhanced interior comfort and trim. The M Sport package offered the most aggressive styling and performance upgrades.
Chassis & Braking
The F36 4 Series Gran Coupe utilizes a sophisticated chassis design. The front suspension features independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employs an independent multi-link setup. This configuration provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling precision. The 430d Gran Coupe typically came equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering system is a rack-and-pinion type with electric power assistance, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 430d Gran Coupe was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined engine, comfortable ride, and practical Gran Coupe body style. Reviewers noted the excellent fuel economy and strong torque output of the diesel engine. Compared to the 420d, the 430d offered a significant performance boost, making it a more appealing option for drivers who prioritized power. However, it was more expensive than the 420d. Against the 435i, the 430d offered a more economical alternative, albeit with slightly less outright performance. The 430d’s fuel economy figures of around 46 mpg combined were a major selling point, particularly in Europe where diesel fuel was more prevalent and often cheaper than gasoline.
Legacy
The N57 engine family, including the N57D30A found in the 430d, has proven to be remarkably reliable. While diesel engines can be susceptible to issues with the particulate filter and fuel injectors, the N57 is generally considered a durable and long-lasting engine when properly maintained. Today, used 430d Gran Coupes represent a good value proposition, offering a blend of performance, efficiency, and practicality. They are often sought after by buyers looking for a comfortable and refined grand tourer with reasonable running costs. The combination of the potent diesel engine and the versatile Gran Coupe body style continues to appeal to a wide range of drivers.
