2021 BMW M440i – First Drive
BMW’s business class offers a pretty good blend of luxury and performance. We’re stalking about the M440i – a lavish saloon sailor in a complex coupe form factor, and above all, fitted with a 3.0 liter turbocharged I-6 outputting a lofty 382 horsepower and 346 lb.ft of torque. You’ll also get BMW’s xDrive along with it to help maximize traction.
A quick jab at the throttle delivers shear excitement from the B58 engine that works harmoniously well with the equipped 8-speed automatic gearbox. Track tests reveals the M440i’s 0-60 time of a mere 4.0 seconds while clocking a quarter-mile in 12.6 seconds at 110.2 mph at the finish line.
Plenty of M sport emblems can be found in and out of the M440i to remind you of its capability, and that especially rings true on the fixed brake calipers with 4 pistons in the front and 2 pistons in the rear, both grabbing onto a massive 340mm discs. Let’s also not forget they’re made by the notorious manufacturer, Brembo.
A 12.3″ digital cluster renders beautiful graphics and complex, but not overwhelming. A 10.3″ infotainment touchscreen is ergonomically tilted towards the driver for ease of media and navigation access. Speaking of which, the software performance and accuracy of the voice-activated navigation is amongst the best we’ve tested yet. While an optional upgrade, we’d recommend throwing the 16-speaker Harmon Kardon premium audio surround system that delivers crisp audio and rich bass.
BMW’s M440i is an inspiration of aesthetics, ingenuity and innovation. Take for example the electronic front radiator gates that opens when it needs to breathe in more air, or the electronic-actuated seat belts to help you buckle up, or the electronic seat-belt tightener that gently tauts the driver momentarily when you drive off, always reminding you to always hold on, because you’re about to go for a ride. Above all, is the exceptional craftmanship, and build quality found especially in the interior.
All things said, the long wheelbase and overall large form factor is noticeable in which a 4-door grand-coupe would warrant better practicality.
Nevertheless, the performance and the experience it brings along with it is astounding. Let off the gas a bit, the M440i remains calm and obedient in city driving or highway cruising.
The BMW M440i can be had at a base price of $64,940. Throw in the Premium Excellence package quickly bumps up the price with an additional $9,095 with a plethora of extra tech and safety features. Don’t skimp out on the M-Enhanced Track Package for an extra $4,950, because that gets you beefier 19″ wheels, adaptive suspensions, and M-Sport brakes. All said and done, you’re looking at $78,995. Is it worth it? Let’s just say we think it’s worth YOLO’ing for.
Specifications
- Vehicle : 2021 4 Series
- Model : M440i
- Vehicle Type : Grand Coupe
- Seating Capacity : 2+3
- Engine : TwinPower 3.0L Inline 6
- Transmission : 8-speed Automatic
- Price as tested: $78,995
Pros
- Superior Performance and Exceptional Build Quality
- Unique aesthetics and design features that elevates driving experience
- Excellent performance from the twin-scroll B58 engine
Cons
- Feels curb weight makes the M440i feel a bit sluggish
- Coupe models may be impractical given its long wheel base in which a 4-door sedan may offer more practicality.