2023 BMW 4-Series Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons.

Luxury is something BMW knows a few things about, and the 4 Series is no exception. The 4 Series is based on the BMW 3 Series sedan, but the 4 Series is quite diverse, as it can be ordered as a convertible, coupe, or sport sedan (which is known as the Gran Coupe). Not too many luxury brands offer a convertible or coupe, so the 4 Series is quite competitive in this segment.

Of course, this is BMW, so you can expect for there to be a lot of power under the hood of this vehicle. Even the base 430i will feel powerful enough for the average buyer. However, for those looking for something more robust, the M440i has a lot of zest. The M4 is a variant of this that is even more high-performance and is truly in a class of its own, which is why this review will stick to just the 430i and M440i models.

The 4 Series is set apart from the pack by its oddly endearing front grille design. It makes the vehicle look like a buck-tooth bunny. While this aesthetic choice probably will not appeal to most folks, it at least lets everyone know that you are driving a BMW. While the flat hood of the vehicle makes it hard to know exactly where the front end is in relation to things in front of it, the front end itself is actually something you can get used to over time.

There are really only two main 4 Series trim levels to choose from: the 430i and M440i. But, on each one, you get to choose between rear-wheel drive (RWD) - which is standard - and the all-wheel drive system that BMW labels the xDrive. There aren't a ton of differences between the RWD and xDrive variants outside of the mechanical aspects, but there are a large number of optional packages available that are worth mentioning. We will be going into some depth with those, so pay close attention to what is offered in each package as well as to all of the standard features offered on both trim levels.

After you read through this trim level comparison review, you should have a clearer idea of how you want to outfit your new 2023 BMW 4 Series. But pay attention to the final paragraphs, as that is where we will let you know which 4 Series trim level and package configuration we think has the most to offer buyers in this highly competitive segment.

Compare the 430i vs M440i Trims. What is the difference?

Let's start things off by talking about what powers the 2023 BMW 4 Series. The base 430i trim level receives its power from a standard turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine puts forth a power output of 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. On the other hand, the M440i is powered by an even stronger turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine that is good for 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission, which delivers power to the back wheels via standard rear-wheel drive. Of course, those xDrive models both have all-wheel drive equipped, which you can opt for on either trim level.

Now, let us get into more of the specifics of what you will find on each vehicle in terms of feature offerings. Up first is the 430i. This trim level rides around on top of 18-inch wheels and has LED headlights designed into the front fascia. The exterior side mirrors have heating and power folding functions, and the coupe variant comes with a sunroof. Unfortunately, the sunroof does cut down a bit on head room for occupants in the rear seats.

Inside of the 4 Series 440i trim level, you will find a wide array of luxury-oriented features aimed at keeping you comfortable as you go about your business. A standard dual-zone automatic climate control system keeps each of the cabin's two zones at their set temperatures and makes adjustments on its own. All of the leather upholstery found inside of the vehicle is a synthetic leather material, although it offers a look just like leather and even more breathability. Ambient interior lighting sets a nice tone when you need it, and the front seats are both power-adjustable with the driver's seat having integrated memory settings for your convenience.

BMW certainly does their best to keep you well-informed and entertained throughout your commute, too. That is why they have crafted a dual-screen approach to the 4 Series 430i's cockpit. There is one 8.8-inch infotainment touchscreen display and a matching 8.8-inch digital instrumentation panel. Wireless smartphone app integration comes via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, thereby connecting the vehicle's infotainment system with your smartphone. Voice recognition and navigation are also built into the system, and there is an impressive 10-speaker sound system that is tacked on for good measure.

While the voice recognition works nearly to perfection, the nav system could use some work. Too much map info gets displayed on the screen, which makes things difficult. Also, all of the main streets stay highlighted as you zoom out, so be prepared to get inundated with an abundance of roadway colors. But that 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system is totally worth it, as it delivers crisp audio quality throughout the cabin.

There are also a handful of advanced driver aids that come along with the 2023 BMW 4 Series 430i trim level. This suite of driver aids bundles together forward collision mitigation (which will alert you of a potential oncoming crash and will apply the brakes for you in an effort to avoid it), automatic high beam headlights, parking sensors (which will alert you to any objects below the bumper than you might not be able to see with the naked eye), lane departure warning (which warns you when the 4 Series starts to drift outside of its intended driving lane), and a blind spot warning with a rear cross-traffic alert included (which, when you are trying to go in reverse or change lanes, will warn you if there is another vehicle driving in your BMW's blind spot).

Let's now take a look at everything offered on the M440i trim level. As already mentioned, the M440i is tuned for a higher performance than the 430i, given its much beefier engine. It does come with more standard features, including the 430i's optional Convenience package (which we will discuss in a few short minutes here). It also has the M Performance package, which bundles together the M Sport package and a set of 18-inch wheels. Finally, the M440i comes with the 430i's Dynamic Handling package, except that it ditches the adaptive dampers. And, again, this trim level can also be ordered with RWD or the optional xDrive AWD system. Those are really the big differences between the 430i and M440i.

Compare the 430i Optional Packages vs M440i Optional Packages. What is the difference?

We do need to address the various optional packages for the BMW 4 Series 430i and M440i before we close out this trim level comparison. So, let's start off with what you can select for the base 430i trim level.

On the 430i, you can opt for the Driving Assistance Professional package. This bundles together adaptive cruise control (which lets you set a safe following distance between the BMW and the vehicle in front of you and will adjust accordingly), front cross-traffic warning (which lets you know if a vehicle is about to cross in front of your path), a lane keeping system (which helps to keep the vehicle centered in its lane by making small corrections to the steering), partially automated steering while driving under 40 mph on the highway, and evasive steering assist (which advances the forward collision mitigation system to include a steering-based collision avoidance).

If you decide to order the Convenience package, this equips the 430i with adjustable lumbar support and proximity keyless entry. Again, these features come standard on the M440i trim level.

Opting for the Premium package outfits the 430i with the Convenience package as well as heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. You also get a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel paired with a 10.25-inch center touchscreen. If you equip this package on the M440i, you also get a head-up display that will project important vehicle and driving data onto the windshield, allowing you to keep your eyes on the road.

The M Sport package bundles the Convenience package with a few specific M Sport features. This includes 19-inch wheels (which let you opt for performance summer tires), a sport steering wheel, a sport suspension, and an aerodynamic body kit.

Finally, you can opt for the Dynamic Handling package. In this package, you get the summer performance tires with the 19-inch wheels and upgraded brakes. There is also a sport differential that improves available traction and adaptive suspension dampers, which maximize handling abilities or ride comfort through automatic adjustments.

Now, if you want to get the M440i trim level, there are a few packages to choose from. First up is the Cooling and High Performance Tire package. The 19-inch summer performance tires come along with it, as well as a drivetrain cooling system and brakes oriented for high performance. An adaptive suspension is also added on.

The M Carbon Exterior package offers you an enhanced air inlet and rear diffuser panel trim. You also get mirror caps and a rear spoiler done in carbon fiber.

The final package option is the Parking Assistance package. This package adds on front and rear parking sensors that come with automatic braking. A 360-degree camera system provides you with a top-down view of everything immediately surrounding your BMW. What's more, you can use the automated parking system to steer the vehicle into a desired parking spot with little to no intervention on your part.

Stand-alone features for the 4 Series include an upgraded Harman Kardon sound system, adaptive suspension dampers, adaptive LED headlights (which swivel while you corner), neck warmers (exclusive for the convertible variant), remote engine start, heated front seats, ventilation for the front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a wireless smartphone charger.

Final Thoughts

There you have it, folks. As you can see, the 2023 BMW 4 Series offers you a lot of options to help you customize your selected trim level just how you want it. You can essentially make the BMW uniquely yours.

But which configuration is the best? While the M440i is more powerful and a lot of fun to drive, the 430i is a perfectly good luxury vehicle with enough power under the hood to appease the average buyer. It is a lot more affordable than the M440i, and you can tack on quite a few different optional packages and stand-alone features to really customize it until your heart is content.

Of course, those looking for even more power will like the M440i or possibly even the high-octane, high-performance M4, which is also worth checking out if you have a ton of wiggle room in your budget. But, if not, the 430i is a strong and capable trim level that oozes luxury and tech.