BMW's M4 performance car caters to its driver. While other cars tend to make this decision between on-paper stats and real-world fun more difficult, BMW's M4 excels at both.
The M4's turbocharged inline-six engine makes you want to press your right foot hard against the firewall - its base model puts out 473 horsepower while its Competition version produces 503 hp!
Engine
The M4's powerful three-litre twin turbo straight six engine is truly remarkable. Boasting closed deck construction to maximize strength, lightweight cranks and cylinder heads with forged lightweight crankshafts and double VANOS variable valve timing system and double VANOS variable valve timing system technology; its performance warrants its place as part of an M badge car.
It is one of the top performing car turbo engines available, featuring sharp throttle response and an eager top end. While not quite as vocal as its M3 predecessor (due to two less cylinders and additional turbos), its sound still impresses, giving an indication that something serious is driving through town at crawl speed.
BMW also excels at keeping turbos under control, minimizing turbo lag through an intelligent system that only activates two front-wheel drive turbochargers when acceleration is demanded. Although some lag is inevitable; pulling away from parking requires shuddering and possibly clutch slippage when driving off from parking spaces requires slight effort and clutch slippage; it is much less noticeable than you might expect.
Under the control of an experienced driver, this vehicle is an exhilarating experience. When pushed hard enough - especially with M4 Competition spec's S3 drive logic and slightly altered settings - it can become unruly; but never uncontrollable as its rear biased xDrive system provides ample grip to protect from spinouts that would disgrace either an M3 or Giulia Quadrifoglio.
But this car also rewards calm driving; its engine can easily handle a relaxing motorway cruise or trip up to your holiday resort. Additionally, its boot capacity of 440 litres makes for more space than you'll find in a C63.
Transmission
BMW's M4 remains unique among their modern lineup by still being offered with a manual transmission, producing 473bhp in this form and reaching 62mph in just 4.1sec from rest. While slightly quicker than its rival, M4 Competition, this car does not include optional all-wheel drive or automatic transmission features.
BMW's MT transmission is an absolute pleasure to use, offering short shifter throws and ideal gear ratios to transfer power smoothly onto the road. Additionally, you can tailor its drive dynamics using different modes ranging from eco-friendly to track-focused - while its adaptive M suspension automatically adjusts its damper calibration depending on driving conditions and style so it remains perfectly balanced both for racing track use as well as everyday use.
This car requires skill in order to fully appreciate it; similar to when your teenager defies parental wishes by getting that nose piercing they were told not to get. But, if you feel confident enough to explore all its vast reserves, the M4 will reward you with incredible grip and an exhilarating rush of acceleration.
The M4 CSL's track-specific tires may take time to heat up, but once they do they deliver an impressive amount of grip. Even with its powerful performance upgrades, however, the M4 CSL remains relatively civilized on the street; expertly feed it into corners and you can zip past slower track creatures almost effortlessly while enjoying its evocative M six-cylinder noise as it revs to its 7,200rpm redline - something only BMWs can provide and we are fortunate that one remains with us now for those willing to put in effort and learn it properly!
Performance
The M4 is BMW's high-performance version of their 4 Series coupe, and driving one is always an exhilarating experience. Equipped with its signature engine and automatic transmission - as well as all-wheel drive as part of its Competition variant - the M4 provides ample driving pleasure no matter its configuration. Plus there are numerous driving mode settings and features you can adjust to suit your preferences perfectly!
Early M4s had a reputation for being gruff and rude, but with time they have transformed into truly exceptional drivers' cars. Now they offer surprising communicative control, genuine agility and offer genuine performance even on daily use. The competition-grade M4 CSL model stands out as especially capable, boasting 40 additional horsepower than the regular Competition model and featuring carbon fiber bucket seats, reduced sound deadening, lightweight wheels with titanium exhaust systems and other weight saving measures to shed nearly 250 lbs from weight reduction.
EPA estimates that the M4 achieves 16 city and 23 highway mileage mpg respectively, though our 75mph fuel-economy test achieved 21 mpg, almost matching what the EPA claims to achieve.
Inside, the M4 epitomizes everything BMW 2021 offers: an intuitive infotainment system featuring touchscreen and clickwheel access, useful hard buttons for climate control and radio shortcuts, as well as a driving layout designed to put gearshift and steering wheel precisely where they belong. A 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster adds to its sporty atmosphere while Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available wirelessly; wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto are standard; additionally a premium Harman Kardon audio system comes standard; finally for 2023 they get upgraded version of their iDrive operating system featuring expanded menu bars and additional content!
Interior
The BMW M4 interior was created to keep drivers focused on driving. It features an ergonomically superior cockpit design and premium, fine-grain Merino leather upholstery available in multiple colors and styles to maximize driver concentration on driving.
The M4 offers an advanced infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and multiple control options. Voice commands, buttons on the steering wheel and rotary controller on the console allow for intuitive use of this system, including Apple CarPlayTM Android AutoTM navigation and 16 speaker Harman/Kardon audio system are among its standard features; you can even opt for additional amenities like subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot access and gesture controls if desired.
In addition to standard features, the M4 offers several optional and exclusive interior and exterior upgrades. One such package is the M Carbon Exterior Package - adding striking carbon fiber accents such as front splitter splitters, mirror caps, roof, gurney, and rear spoiler to further distinguish this luxury car and improve aerodynamics. This option helps reduce weight while improving aerodynamics of its coupe coupe body style.
Another option is the BMW M4 CSL, a limited-edition version of its regular M4. This special-edition vehicle adds 40 more horsepower than its competition sibling for a total of 543 HP while shedding approximately 200 pounds due to carbon fiber components and other mass reduction measures.
Other features of the M4 include a retractable panoramic sunroof, surround-view camera, power seats with memory function and keyless entry with push-button start. There's also an available comfort pack which adds automatic climate control, heated steering wheel and power folding mirrors for your convenience. And for safety's sake there are multiple airbags, stability control, as well as rearview mirror with traffic signal recognition and parking assist - not forgetting an optional comfort pack with automatic climate control, heated steering wheel and heated steering wheel!
Technology
Few premium cars can match the exhilaration of driving a BMW M4. This two-door coupe or convertible sibling of the M3 sedan delivers on power and precise handling, from acceleration from zero to sixty in less than four seconds to cornering like an expert sushi chef. But don't think its performance comes at the cost of comfort: this high-performance model delivers remarkable composure for its size with a ride that is firm yet comfortable.
BMW's cutting-edge tech can elevate the M4 driving experience. Their newly redesigned single dashboard display integrates instrument cluster and infotainment system on one curved screen that responds to touch or voice command - this "video gamey" combo panel may rankle some BMW purists, but is part of their all-in approach to meeting modern technological requirements.
The M4 utilizes an elegant app called BMW M Driving Dynamics Control that helps drivers improve their skills behind the wheel. Real-time data such as vehicle speed, lateral acceleration and steering angle is displayed on its infotainment screen in real time; lap times can also be recorded and analyzed with this program.
A useful feature of the M4 is its digital head-up display, which projects driving and navigation information directly onto the windshield. A standard rearview camera comes equipped with parking assist features to ease parking in tight spaces.
Enhance the interior of your M4 by upgrading its interior with gloss carbonfibre across its dash and center console, or opt for the Competition Package with unique seats with flying side bolsters and illuminated M badges that look as striking as they feel comfortable.
