The 2026 BMW M440i: A Coupe That Does It All
The luxury coupe market has seen a decline in recent years, with buyers increasingly drawn to SUVs and trucks. However, this segment still offers vehicles that blend luxury with impressive performance. Cars like the Toyota GR Supra and Mercedes-Benz CLE 450 Coupe exemplify this combination, each with its distinct styling and performance characteristics. But one luxury coupe shines a little brighter, especially for those who prioritize driving engagement.
That car is the 2026 BMW M440i Coupe, which fits snugly between the more relaxed 430i and the high-performance M4 models in the BMW lineup. This model strikes a compelling balance with its spirited turbocharged engine and sports suspension. While the M440i comes with a premium price tag, does its features justify the cost?
Performance and Luxury Seamlessly Blended
As one might expect, the 2026 BMW M440i offers a luxurious driving experience. Inside, the M440i showcases a clean dashboard design with a minimalist aesthetic. The leather-wrapped, flat-bottom steering wheel conveys a sporty, racecar-like feel. A large 14.9-inch infotainment screen and a 12.3-inch digital gauge display give the interior a modern, tech-savvy edge. Both screens utilize BMW’s iDrive 8.5 infotainment software, the system’s newest iteration. The interface has been streamlined for quicker access to various functions and apps.
Standard features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and built-in navigation. Wireless phone charging and Wi-Fi are optional add-ons. The M440i’s heated leather sport seats offer excellent support for both the driver and front passenger, along with heating functionality for colder months. The steering wheel is also heated, and the cabin includes automatic climate control.
While space is limited in the rear, the back seat can accommodate two passengers. The sloping roofline, a characteristic of coupes, naturally reduces rear-seat headroom. This emphasis on sportiness is backed by the M440i’s performance, courtesy of a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine. This engine produces 386 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque, coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission. BMW estimates that the rear-wheel-drive version can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds. The all-wheel-drive version achieves this feat in a quicker 4.2 seconds.
Rivals in the Luxury Coupe Segment
The 2026 Toyota GR Supra, a direct competitor, is also powered by a BMW-sourced turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine. It generates 382 horsepower and 368 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission, though a six-speed manual is also available. Toyota indicates the Supra can reach 60 mph in 3.9 seconds. However, the Supra’s interior lacks the same level of luxury and space.
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLE 450 coupe offers a greater challenge to the M440i, boasting a comparably luxurious interior space and seating layout. With similar luxury features and equivalent performance, the Mercedes is another viable choice. Under its hood is a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, paired with a 48-volt mild hybrid system. This combination yields 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds. The Mercedes also features a standard 4Matic all-wheel-drive system.
Final Thoughts
While the luxury coupe market may be shrinking, the remaining cars are worth considering. The Mercedes-Benz CLE 450 coupe and the Toyota GR Supra cater to different drivers’ preferences regarding performance and luxury. The 2026 BMW M440i, however, finds an ideal spot in between, offering a superb blend of performance and refinement. Due to its meticulous execution, the BMW M440i delivers a remarkable experience that justifies its higher price point.
