2015 BMW 435i xDrive

Changes are minimal for this model year. The big news is that the 4 Series loses its center-console cupholder lid. 

We can't resist the inline 6-cylinder's 300 hp, but the convertible doesn't look sexy enough to justify its price premium, so make ours a 435i coupe, and make sure that the M Sport package is part of the deal. Find a BMW 4 Series for sale

The base 428i ($41,700) comes standard with 17-inch wheels, adaptive xenon headlights, fog lights, a sunroof (coupe only), auto stop/start (a fuel-saving feature that can be disabled), Driving Dynamics Control (offering three settings for throttle sensitivity and steering effort), power adjustable front seats with driver memory functions, leatherette upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth, iPod/USB connectivity and the iDrive infotainment system with a 6.5-in screen.

The primary appeal of the 435i ($47,200) is the powerful inline 6-cylinder engine, but it also gets an upgrade to 18-in wheels.

The 428i convertible ($49,700) and 435i convertible ($55,850) feature an expansive power hardtop and available neck-warming air vents.

The 4 Series can be customized with one of three trim packages: Sport Line, Luxury Line and M Sport. These are comprehensive appearance packages (the Sport also has a lowered sport suspension and sport front seats) that offer unique wheels and interior decor. The M Sport package adds shadowline exterior trim, a body kit, a sport suspension, an M steering wheel and extensive M badging inside and out.

In typical BMW fashion, the options list is lengthy and may prove expensive. The Premium package adds power front lumbar support and keyless entry/start, while the Cold Weather package brings a heated steering wheel and heated front seats. Additional options include an adaptive sport suspension, M Sport brakes, dynamic cruise control, a self-parking system, side- and top-view parking cameras, a Harman Kardon audio system and a navigation system. The Technology package contributes such items as a crisper 8.8-in infotainment screen, a navigation system, an upgraded iDrive controller with a touchpad and a head-up display. All 4 Series models are compatible with BMW Apps, which leverages your smartphone to bring social media into the driving experience.

BMW claims a whopping 15.7 cu ft. of trunk space for the coupe, which is remarkable given the car's relatively modest dimensions. The convertible impresses with the top up, checking in at 13 cu ft., but if you drop the top, you're down to 7.8 cu ft.; all that folded metal has to go somewhere.