BMW 4 Series G22 (2020–2026)
Generation-specific owner insights from 28+ substantive owner discussions, with US complaint and recall records.
70
US owner complaints (NHTSA), 2020–2026
2
recall campaigns
electrical system
most-complained area
What owners say about this generation
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment on the G22 is sharply divided.
7 problems reported (1 very frequent, 3 recurrent, 3 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentFront grille design widely disliked
- RecurrentPoor rear visibility with convertible top up
- RecurrentSoft top replaces previous hardtop, seen as a downgrade
+ 4 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentLow-profile run-flat tires and rims vulnerable on bad roads
- IsolatedNo manual transmission option
- IsolatedFake exhaust tips criticized
- IsolatedGauge cluster layout criticized (tachometer orientation)
The version owners recommend
The M440i with the B58 engine is the clear consensus pick. Multiple owners explicitly recommend the B58 and describe the M440i as superior to competitors. One owner stated the 2021 M440i convertible blows the Mercedes E-Class out of the water. No specific model year within the generation is singled out as best.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Mercedes E-Class Convertible, Mercedes C-Class, Audi S5, Audi A5 and Ford Mustang GT.
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Overall sentiment
Owner sentiment on the G22 is sharply divided. The most dominant and recurring criticism is the front grille design, which many owners describe as hideous, polarizing, or a dealbreaker, though a minority defend it as bold or a throwback. Beyond styling, owners praise the B58 inline-six engine, the driving dynamics, and the interior technology. The M440i is frequently cited as the standout model, with owners describing it as quick, fun, and blowing competitors out of the water. Convertible owners note the switch from a hardtop to a soft top as a point of contention, and several owners report poor rear visibility with the top up. No clear differences between early and late model years emerged beyond general LCI discussion.
Positioning vs competitors
Owners position the G22 4 Series as the sportier choice against the Mercedes E-Class convertible, which is described as having superior ride comfort and interior luxury but being less engaging to drive. Against the Audi S5, owners note the BMW has a better interior and more space, while the Audi is seen as better looking by some. The Mustang GT is dismissed by several owners as typical American junk with an inferior interior, though it offers more horsepower for less money. The 8 Series is seen as more elegant, comfortable, and premium, but the 4 Series is considered the better value and more tossable. One owner summarized the dynamic: if you are out ripping it, choose the BMW; if daily cruising, choose the Mercedes.
Recommended configurations
Owners consistently recommend the B58 inline-six engine, which means the M440i trim. The xDrive option is mentioned favorably for putting power down. For the convertible, owners note the blind spot monitoring system is a huge help given poor rear visibility. One owner recommends the M Sport trim. No specific model year is recommended over others within this generation.
General recommendations
Owners advise that this generation is for buyers who prioritize driving dynamics and engine performance over traditional BMW styling. Those who cannot accept the grille are told to look at the previous F32 generation instead. For the convertible, buyers should be comfortable with limited rear visibility and the soft top. Owners warn that low-profile run-flat tires and large wheels are vulnerable on poor roads, with one owner suggesting 18-inch wheels with meatier sidewalls for pothole-prone areas. Several owners note that a warranty is important, with one recommending CPO for peace of mind. Buyers considering this car for a college student are cautioned about maintenance demands and unwanted attention.
Remarks
The grille controversy dominated early owner discussion around the 2020-2021 reveal and launch, with many owners stating they would keep their F32 or buy an F82 instead. Some owners note the design looks better in person than in photos. The M440i's B58 engine is repeatedly praised for both performance and efficiency. Convertible owners report that visibility issues become second nature with time and proper mirror adjustment. Analysis based on approximately 28 substantive owner discussions about this generation.
Complaints and recalls by model year
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 2 | 0 | tires |
| 2025 | 7 | 1 | electrical system |
| 2024 | 6 | 0 | unknown or other |
| 2023 | 18 | 1 | seat belts |
| 2022 | 16 | 0 | engine |
| 2021 | 15 | 0 | electrical system |
| 2020 | 6 | 0 | air bags |
Source: US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices for this generation
2025 · electrical system:starter assemblycampaign 25V202000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2025 330i, 330i xDrive, 530i, 530i xDrive, 4 Series Coupe (430i, 430i xDrive), 4 Series Convertible (430i, 430i xDrive), 4 Series Gran Coupe (430i, 430i xDrive) and X3 30 xDrive vehicles. The electrical connection between the starter-generator and battery may come loose.
2023 · power train:automatic transmission:control module (tcm/pcm/tecm)campaign 23V821000
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2023 Toyota GR Supra, 3 Series Sedan (330i xDrive, M340i xDrive, M3), 5 Series Sedan (530i, 530i xDrive, M5), 4 Series Gran Coupe (430i, 430i xDrive), 4 Series Coupe (430i, 430i xDrive, M440i xDrive), 4 Series Convertible (430i, 430i xDrive, M440i xDrive), 8 Series Coupe (840i, M850i xDrive, M8), 8 Series Convertible (840i, M850i xDrive, M8), 8 Series Gran Coupe (850i xDrive, M8), X3 SAV (X3 xDrive30i, X3M), X4 SAV (X4 xDrive30i), X5 SAV (X5 xDrive40i, X5 M50i, X5M), X6 SAV (X6 xDrive40i, X6 M50i, X6M), and Z4 sDrive30i, Z4 M40i vehicles. The weld seam of the integrated transmission control unit's cover may not have been manufactured properly, which could allow automatic transmission oil to leak into the transmission control unit.
Owner insights summarize real ownership discussions for this generation only. Complaint and recall data is public NHTSA (US) information. Always verify recalls against your VIN at nhtsa.gov.