Stylish and spacious: BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé

Times have changed, indeed. Just a few years ago, carmakers released the combustion engine-powered version of a new model first. Then not long after,  they would develop and launch an electric vehicle using the first car's platform. 

In BMW's case, the German marque went the other way as it rolled out the electric i4 Gran Coupé first, then the 4 Series Gran Coupé you see here. So what are the highlights of this compact hatchback?

BMW said the 4 Series GC's front end is "expressive" and "transmits an assured presence" with its "prominent" kidney grille.  First seen in the hot M4, many people have expressed their strong and colorful opinions on that grille. 

The slim full-LED headlights come with U-shaped fiber-optic light guides for the daytime driving lights. BMW will offer the option of adaptive LED headlights with BMW Laserlight, which includes the Selective Beam high beam assistant.

As usual for a BMW, the 4 Series GC will be powered by a set of gasoline and diesel engines. The M440i xDrive Gran Coupé and the model's diesel variants will have mild hybrid technology to "further increases dynamism and efficiency."

These cars' 48 volt starter-generator puts an extra 11hp on tap when accelerating off the line, or during a quick burst of speed. An additional battery regenerates and stores brake energy.

Inside, BMW's Live Cockpit Plus will be fitted as standard. That feature combines the iDrive operating system, an 8.8-inch control display, and a 5.1-inch color display in the instrument cluster.

The optional BMW Live Cockpit Professional will feature a fully digital screen that combines a 12.3 inch screen behind the steering wheel, and a 10.25-inch control display.

BMW has also highlighted the rear accommodations of the 4 Series GC with "generous" legroom. Behind the rear seats, BMW said there is 470 liters of cargo space. The space is a result of the car being five millimeters longer than  3 Series sedan. 

Photos from BMW

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