BMW 4 Series G23 (2020–2026)
Generation-specific owner insights from 35+ 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 G23 generation is sharply divided along two axes.
8 problems reported (1 very frequent, 3 recurrent, 4 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentPolarizing oversized front grille design
- RecurrentNo manual transmission option
- RecurrentLimited rear visibility with convertible top up
+ 5 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentConvertible switched from hardtop to soft top, criticized by some owners
- IsolatedFake exhaust tips
- IsolatedGauge cluster with reverse-sweep tachometer criticized
- IsolatedLow-profile run-flat tires and rims vulnerable to pothole damage
- IsolatedBrake rotors with surface rust on CPO vehicles
The version owners recommend
The M440i with the B58 inline-six engine is the version owners most consistently recommend and praise. Multiple owners explicitly advise choosing the B58 over the four-cylinder 430i, with one owner stating, "I'd recommend the B58 (inline 6) engine. Other than that love my car." The xDrive variant is mentioned favorably for putting power down effectively. No specific model year within the generation is singled out as superior, though the 2021 model year is the most frequently discussed.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Convertible, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi S5, Audi A5 and Mustang GT.
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Overall sentiment
Owner sentiment on the G23 generation is sharply divided along two axes. The most dominant and recurring theme is the controversial oversized front grille, which a large number of owners describe as hideous, polarizing, or a dealbreaker, while a smaller contingent defends it as bold or a throwback to classic BMW design. The second major theme is driving dynamics: owners consistently praise the B58 inline-six engine, the sporty handling, and the overall driving experience, with several stating the M440i "blows the competition out of the water." Interior quality and technology receive generally positive marks, though some owners criticize the gauge cluster layout and the lack of a manual transmission. Early model years (2021) drew the most intense grille criticism, while later discussions suggest some owners have warmed to the design or at least shifted focus to the car's performance strengths.
Positioning vs competitors
Owners position the G23 4 Series as the sportier, more engaging choice compared to the Mercedes E-Class, which is described as having superior ride comfort and interior luxury but being less dynamic. One owner summarized: "If you're out ripping it, BMW. If daily, Merc." Against the Audi S5, owners note the BMW has a better interior and more space, though some prefer the S5's exterior styling. The Mustang GT is dismissed by several owners as "typical American junk" not comparable to the BMW. The 8 Series is seen as more comfortable, premium, and elegant, but the 4 Series is considered the better value and more tossable. Owners also note the 4 Series offers more rear legroom than the 8 Series convertible. Reliability perceptions favor the BMW over the Mercedes in used-car discussions.
Recommended configurations
Owners recommend the M440i trim for the B58 engine's performance, tuning potential, and efficiency. The xDrive option is suggested for all-weather capability and traction. M Sport trim is mentioned as desirable. For the convertible, owners note the neck warmer feature is considered mandatory by at least one buyer. No owner recommends the 430i over the M440i, and no specific model year within 2020-2026 is preferred or avoided.
General recommendations
Owners advise that this generation is best suited to buyers prioritizing driving dynamics and performance over outright luxury comfort. The B58 engine is widely regarded as reliable, but owners emphasize that German cars require diligent maintenance that cannot be neglected. Several owners recommend purchasing certified pre-owned (CPO) models for warranty coverage, noting that out-of-warranty repairs can be expensive. Buyers considering the convertible should be aware of limited rear visibility with the top up, though blind spot monitoring helps. Owners also caution that the car attracts unwanted attention: from people assuming wealth, to "car guys" wanting to race, to potential theft risk. For tall drivers, multiple owners confirm that 6'1" to 6'6" individuals fit comfortably. Those concerned about poor road conditions are advised that low-profile tires and run-flats are vulnerable to pothole damage.
Remarks
The grille controversy dominated early owner discussions (2020-2021) and remains the single most defining characteristic of this generation in owner discourse. Notably, some owners who initially hated the design report that photos do not do the car justice and that it looks better in person. The B58 engine receives near-universal praise for performance, efficiency, and tuning potential, with owners noting it makes close to 450 horsepower at the crank in the M440i. Several owners report that the car's design still draws compliments from non-enthusiasts who mistake it for a newer model. Analysis based on approximately 35 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.