2021 Dodge Challenger vs 2021 BMW 4 Series

The 2021 BMW 4 Series coupe sparked conversations with its bold styling, particularly the large twin-kidney grille, which BMW claimed improved engine cooling. While opinions on its aesthetics varied, many found it less than appealing. The rest of the car adhered to typical BMW design, featuring standard LED headlights and taillights, and a familiar silhouette. The aerodynamic front end boasted a drag coefficient of 0.25, aided by Air Curtain intakes on the front bumper. Sharing a platform with the BMW 3 Series sedan, the 4 Series was slightly larger in dimensions, offering a sportier feel with standard paddle shifters and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, though the latter was criticized for its oversized diameter.

In contrast, the 2021 Dodge Challenger SXT, even in its base form, exuded a cool, retro vibe with its squared-off fenders and round headlights. Its design emphasized width with twin hood scoops and a double-nostril grille. The Challenger's body was intentionally stocky, with slim windows and a chopped roof, creating a unique visual mass. While the base model was considered too sedate, Dodge offered numerous customization options, including larger wheels and vibrant paint colors, to enhance its aggressive appearance. The interior, unchanged since 2015, was functional but unremarkable, with analog gauges and a central display providing essential information.

The 2021 BMW 4 Series offered two powertrains. The 430i model featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 255 horsepower and 294 pound-feet of torque, while the M440i boasted a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, enhanced by a 48-volt starter/generator for improved fuel efficiency. An eight-speed automatic transmission was standard, with the 430i achieving 0 to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds for the RWD version and 5.3 seconds for the AWD xDrive. The M440i xDrive reached 60 mph in 4.3 seconds. Despite these impressive figures, the driving experience was marred by a hesitant transmission and uninspiring engine sound. The optional Adaptive M Suspension and other performance upgrades provided a composed chassis but lacked the expected engagement.

The 2021 Dodge Challenger, particularly in its higher trims, was a powerhouse with a range of engine options from 303 to 807 horsepower. The R/T Scat Pack and Hellcat models featured advanced performance technologies like line lock, launch control, and After-Run Chiller, enhancing their drag racing capabilities. The SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody achieved 0 to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds with a top speed of 203 mph. The base V6 engine in the SXT and GT trims was adequate for highway cruising but lacked excitement. The R/T trim, with its 375-hp V8 and manual transmission, offered a more engaging experience. However, handling and steering were not the Challenger's strong suits, with V6 models lacking grip and V8 models relying on weight and traction control for stability.

The 2021 BMW 4 Series, while not the most practical, offered more front headroom and trunk space than its competitors like the Audi A5 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. The rear seats were best suited for children or occasional adult use. The interior was well-designed, with a logically laid-out cockpit and excellent outward visibility. The infotainment system was user-friendly, and storage solutions were thoughtfully integrated.

The 2021 Dodge Challenger excelled in cargo space, offering 16 cubic feet, surpassing many sedans and its direct competitors, the Chevrolet Camaro and Ford Mustang. While technically a five-seater, the rear seats were best deleted for more cargo space. The interior, though dated, was straightforward, with conventional controls and a reliable UConnect infotainment system. The seats were comfortable, with numerous customization options for materials and colors, and the steering wheel design was praised for its smart layout.

The 2021 BMW 4 Series came standard with the iDrive 7 infotainment system, featuring an 8.8-inch touchscreen and a 5.1-inch display screen. The optional Live Cockpit Professional offered a 10.25-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The system was praised for its intuitive interface, with multiple control options including a rotary controller and voice commands. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with additional options like a head-up display and wireless phone charging.

The 2021 Dodge Challenger's standard infotainment system had a 7-inch touchscreen, which was considered small for a modern car. The 8.4-inch screen was recommended, offering performance data through the Performance Pages app. This app provided real-time information on power, torque, and other metrics, along with customizable driving modes. The UConnect system was user-friendly, and a proximity key was standard. Optional features included an Alpine audio system, adaptive cruise control, and various convenience features, though no semi-automated driving system was available.

The 2021 BMW 4 Series had not yet been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS. It came with standard driver-assist features like lane-departure warning, forward-collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control was available through the Driving Assistance Professional Package, offering advanced capabilities like stop-and-go traffic management and steering assist.

The 2021 Dodge Challenger received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA but struggled with the IIHS's tougher standards. It scored "good" in only two of six tests and had a "poor" rating for body structure in frontal crashes. Available safety features included forward emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control, though the latter two were optional.