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Performance enhanced BMW 420d M Sport aces road test

23/12/2015

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By Maxmilian Wechsler

IMPORTED from Germany and launched in Thailand in July 2014, the BMW 420d Coupé M Sport boasts outstanding handling and execution – qualities which feel even better thanks to the M Performance Power Kit offered by the Millennium Auto dealership. 
    
That’s the conclusion I came to after road testing a 420d M Sport with the M Kit for five days, both in congested Bangkok sois and on the open road, and in all kinds of weather conditions, including heavy winds and rain.
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When I saw the sporty Coupé for the first time at Millennium’s dealership in Ladprao, I was immediately smitten. I couldn’t wait to get behind the wheel. After getting in and closing the door, I was a little startled when the seat belt automatically came to me. This innovation, available only on a few BMW models, is called “belt handover.” I really like the convenience of this feature, and it is extended to front seat passengers as well. Well done.
    
Another feature I adore (that is now available on all BMW models) is the start/stop technology. Every time the car comes to a stop the engine automatically switches off, and restarts after you have placed your foot on the accelerator pedal. This fuel-saving function can be switched off for those who don’t feel comfortable with it.
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You can learn how to use these and other features after just a few minutes thanks to the simple and practical layout of the console. The cabin is quite comfortable with seats that fit the body very well.
    
The blue 420d Coupé M sport loaned out by Millennium Auto attracted a lot of attention from motorists and pedestrians wherever I drove it, partly because of the unique decorative stickers designed specifically for this test car by Danop Limpasathaporn, an accessories specialist at Millennium.

​As you would expect from BMW, the acceleration, braking and steering are marvelous, and these were accentuated by Millennium’s performance Kit (see box story). Throughout the five-day road test the car sailed along quietly without any hiccups, as if bolted to the surface of the road. It doesn’t swerve in a curve and the acceleration is remarkable. More important, the brake system is spectacularly responsive. In fact this is what impressed me most about the car: When you hit the brake pedal in a real or simulated emergency, the 420d comes to a quick stop and, most importantly, in a straight line. 
    
When the weather turned stormy the car continued to perform exceptionally well, so much so that I felt little need for extra caution as I barreled down the highway through very heavy rain and strong winds. 
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​The windshield design and state-of-the-art wipers banished water immediately and the steering was so responsive that I could control the wheel with one finger if I wished. The car kept to its straightforward course without a hint of deviation, and it felt safe and comfortable inside the cabin. 
    
No car review is complete without some negatives, so here goes: I didn’t like the shaking every time the engine switched on from its auto stop function. Second, I was hoping the 4 Series Coupé would have some significant exterior design changes to distinguish it from the 3 Series, but this is not the case. Then again, the look is still a winner, and the handling, technological prowess and overall driving experience, not to mention the low fuel consumption of the 420d, should make this model a popular choice in Thailand. 

More information on the 4 Series M Sport or the M Performance Kit is available from Millennium Auto at their Bangkok or three upcountry dealerships.

M Performance Kit in focus

THE M Performance Power Kit consists of a high-gloss black radiator grille, dual spoke 624M 20inch forged wheel with run flat tires, carbon exterior mirrors, rear carbon spoiler, high performance brakes, real diffuser and tail exhaust pipe, and a modulator that can push engine muscle up to 200 horsepower.

Millennium Auto is offering a substantial discount on the M Performance Kit until the end of December. A Performance Kit is also available for 4 Series models with gasoline engines.

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