2021 Dodge Challenger vs 2022 BMW 4 Series

The 2021 Dodge Challenger, even in its base SXT trim with plain 18-inch alloys, exuded a cool, retro vibe. Its large, mid-size SUV-like presence was accentuated by squared-off fenders, round headlights, and a hood that seemed to require its own parking space. The familiar twin hood scoops, double-nostril grille, and rectangular taillights emphasized the car's width, while the unique hump in the rear quarter panel added to its stocky and thick appearance. Despite its sedate look on smaller wheels, the Challenger could be customized with larger 20-inch wheels, hood stripes, and a variety of vibrant paint colors to enhance its mean demeanor.

In contrast, the 2022 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe, particularly the Sunset Orange 430i test vehicle, showcased a more modern and aerodynamic design. It featured a long hood, fast windshield, and sporty roofline tapering into a tidy tail. However, the car's large, flared-nostril grille with chrome-tipped studs was a polarizing design choice. The M Sport or M Performance styling added extra-large front air intakes, but the rear bumper corner trim seemed out of place. The flush-fitting door handles, though sleek, were difficult to use. Inside, the 4 Series Gran Coupe boasted a modern, asymmetrical design with high-quality materials, though some ergonomic missteps like hard-to-read climate control buttons were noted.

The 2021 Dodge Challenger offered a wide range of engine options, from a mediocre V6 in the SXT and GT trims to the monstrous supercharged 6.2-liter V8 in the Hellcat models. The Challenger's horsepower ranged from 303 to 807, with the SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody achieving 0 to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 203 mph. The V6 models were quiet and efficient but lacked excitement, while the V8 models provided a thrilling driving experience with features like line lock, launch control, and adaptive dampers. The R/T Scat Pack and Hellcat models offered impressive performance, but the handling and steering were adequate at best, with the V6 models floating and the V8 models feeling planted but unwieldy in tight spots.

The 2022 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe, specifically the 430i RWD test vehicle, featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 294 pound-feet of torque. The engine's responsiveness and the eight-speed Sport automatic transmission provided a credible 0 to 60 mph time of 5.8 seconds. The 430i Gran Coupe's Dynamic Handling Package, which included M Sport brakes, high-performance tires, and an Adaptive M suspension, allowed it to perform admirably on challenging roads. The car's near-perfect weight distribution and precise steering made it engaging to drive, though the lack of a manual transmission was a drawback. In everyday driving, the 430i Gran Coupe was composed and assured, though it could feel dull in Comfort mode.

The 2021 Dodge Challenger offered a spacious 16 cubic feet of trunk space, surpassing many sedans and its muscle car rivals. While technically a five-seater, the back seat was best deleted for practicality. The driver's seat provided a moderately good view, though the small side mirrors required careful lane changes and parking. The interior featured conventional controls and a user-friendly UConnect infotainment system. The seats were comfortable, with various material and color options, and the steering wheels offered multiple designs with concealed controls for a clean look.

The 2022 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe, despite being more practical than its two-door counterparts, had a cramped interior with small doors that made entry and exit challenging. The test car's lack of power-adjustable front seats was surprising, though the real leather upholstery was a nice touch. The Gran Coupe's hatchback design provided a 16.6 cubic foot trunk, expandable to 45.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. However, the limited practical storage space and the car's low stance made it less convenient for regular passenger transport compared to a 3 Series sedan.

The 2021 Dodge Challenger's standard infotainment system featured a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though the 8.4-inch screen was a better option. The Performance Pages app allowed drivers to view real-time performance data and customize driving modes. Available tech features included an Alpine audio system, power steering column, driver's seat memory, SiriusXM, HD radio, 4G WiFi hotspot, xenon headlights, auto high beams, and rain-sensing wipers. However, driver assists were limited, with adaptive cruise control being optional and no semi-automated highway system available.

The 2022 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe came with the impressive iDrive 7 infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch touchscreen. The system offered multiple control options, including physical controls, steering wheel functions, and an Intelligent Personal Assistant. Standard tech included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and a cloud-based navigation system. Connected services like BMW TeleServices, BMW ConnectedDrive, and Connected Package Professional provided various features, though some required paid subscriptions. The test car's standard 10-speaker sound system was decent, but premium options like a Harman Kardon system and a head-up display were only available on the M440i model.

The 2021 Dodge Challenger earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, but its old body structure showed weaknesses in the IIHS tests. It scored "good" in only two of six tests and "marginal" for the driver in the small overlap front test. The optional forward emergency braking was rated "basic," and available driver assists included blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control.

The 2022 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including BMW Assist eCall, SOS Emergency Request, and an enhanced automatic collision notification system. The standard Active Driving Assistant included forward-collision warning, low-speed automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, active blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. The M440i model added advanced features like adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assistance, and emergency stop assistance through the Driving Assistance Professional Package. Additional options included Icon Adaptive LED Headlights with LaserLight and automated parking systems.