2017 BMW 440i: owner review

My eight-year-old manual diesel wagon had served its purpose, so it was time for a change, and I knew what I didn’t want.

Apart from budget, my key points were: no diesels, SUVs, 4WDs, crewcabs or manuals. Everything else was open to consideration.

And, as I’d previously owned a string of V8s before the diesel, I was craving the ability to once again beat someone – anyone – from the lights…

After much online surfing, I found a barely used 2017 B45 Estoril Blue BMW 440i. I’d never had a German car before and always hankered for a Bimmer, especially the original 8 Series.

The 440i’s fast, surprisingly economical with the (very smooth) eight-speed torque converter auto, comfortable, has a bangin’ stereo and loaded with clever tech. Like holding the left paddle down to let the car decide how many gears to drop, rather than constantly flicking. Or the cool seatbelt 'presenters' that are everyday practical. The silky, turbo 3.0-litre straight-six is everything you’ve heard and read about, and has a deep, purposeful sound.

Some adjustment was needed in terms of seating and headroom because it’s low, with a sloping roof and sunroof. And you have to adopt a certain way of getting in and out, but you soon work it out. The two doors are long and require care, but frameless windows help. And because it’s based on the 3 Series, there’s sufficient room for rear passengers, and the boot is quite large and practical with folding rear seats. I’ve done a number of Bunnings/Ikea runs.

A lot’s been said about run-flat tyres, but I found experimenting with pressures results in comfortable cruising (and wear). Bit concerned about how much they’ll be to replace, although servicing costs overall are very reasonable.

My car also came with the M pack, which features sporty bits inside and out. The iDrive system is intuitive, offering multiple ways to operate including by dial, voice command and scratchpad. Most commands also appear on the HUD.

As for drive modes, default comfort is best for everyday while still allowing the taps to open. I’ve tailored Sport mode for comfort suspension and sport drivetrain. This mode also holds gears longer and locks out higher ones, as well as sharpening the throttle.

Eco apparently diverts recovered energy to the battery and is best for the highway. Sport+ opens the second exhaust, hardens the suspension and weights up the steering. Too much for every day.

The BMW app is more than a gimmick offering useful real-time information, remote locking and unlocking and ventilation, and flashing lights if you’ve forgotten where you’ve parked.

Downsides? Audio streaming works when it feels like it and, as a coupe, practicality is limited.

Would I buy another BMW? Actually, no. Not a new one anyway. Although undisputedly imperious cars, I feel my generation’s is the last of the classic BMW design with subsequent models becoming too extreme for my tastes (you know what I mean). And I reckon the current, absurd, game-boy instrument cluster is exactly that.

But, for me, it’s about how it makes you feel. Suffice to say I look forward to every drive, even if it’s just to the shops.

And, yes, I’m now winning traffic light derbies. Childish? Nah…

Owner: Mick

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