2016 BMW 435i ZHP Edition

SPECIFICATIONS:

year: 2016
make: BMW
Model: 4 Series
price: $ 48500 (Est.)
Engine: inline-6
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Horsepower @ RPM: 335
Torque @ RPM: 317
Displacement: 3.0 L
0-60 time: 4.5 sec.
Top Speed: 155 mph (Est.)

Much like the 3 Series Coupe that preceded it, the 4 Series lineage has grown to include a multitude of trims. Ranging from fuel-efficient diesels to the more powerful 335i, and from the four-door Gran Coupe to the Convertible, the 4 Series family can satisfy a wide range of customers. Come 2015 and BMW added a new iteration to the 4 Series. Interestingly enough, it’s not a new base model that would bring a fuel-sipping powerplant to the U.S., but a performance-oriented car positioned above the range-topping 435i. Meet the 435i ZHP Edition, or the first 4 Series likely to become a collectible in the near future.

I say "collectible" because the coupe you see here is limited to only 100 examples, making it the rarest 4 Series as of 2015.

Making this limited edition that much more important is the fact that it revives a performance package first introduced in 2003. Originally named the ZHP Performance Package, the bundle added the M-Tech II body kit, ZHP upgraded suspension parts and settings, and special camshafts that raised engine output and allowed a higher redline to the E46 3 Series. Slotted between the 330i and the M3, the E46 ZHP brought "track-inspired excitement to your daily drive." More than a decade later, BMW promises the same with the 435i ZHP Edition.

Exterior

The 435i ZHP Edition stands out in a pack of standard 435i coupes thanks to the M Performance Aerodynamics Package fitted as standard. The bundle enhances the car’s exterior by means of front and rear carbon-made spoilers and a race-inspired rear diffuser crafted from PUR-RIM, a high-quality polymer.

It's aggressive enough to stand out among other 4 Series, but without eclipsing the full-fledged M coupe.

The coupe also received carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) front splitter and rear spoiler, and an M Performance twin-kidney grille finished in black.

Rounding off the ZHP Edition is a set of 18-inch, Orbit Grey, V-Spoke wheels, which come with the Track Handling Package, the M Performance decals on the rocker panels, and the stainless steel exhaust pipes with a brushed finish. Exterior colors are limited to only Alpine White and Black Sapphire Metallic.

Overall, the result is stunning to look at and bridges the gap between the standard 435i and the high-performance M4 quite well. It’s aggressive enough to stand out among other 4 Series, but without eclipsing the full-fledged M coupe. BMW should really consider a full-time production model in a similar trim.

Interior

On the inside, updates are more subtle. Highlights include the Aluminum Hexagon trim, which provides a sportier feel compared to other interior trims available for the 4 Series, gloss-black accents throughout the cabin, and an M Sport steering wheel. All three features are part of the M Sport Package that’s also included with the ZHP Edition.

Much like the exterior, the interior is sober yet sporty.

Additionally, the Sport Mode display has been updated to show increased power figures. Much like the exterior, the interior is sober yet sporty, a characteristic defined by the overall black layout highlighted by aluminum and chrome inserts.

A flat-bottom steering wheel and a set of racier front seats would’ve made the ZHP Edition even better, but I’m not complaining. BMW successfully managed to slot this special-edition car between the 435i and the M4.