BMW M4 BMW - Ultimate Performance Coupe

The M4's steering wheel-mounted paddles add an elegant touch. Dimples welcome your fingertips on the downshift lever while raised dots signal an upshift.

We drove a 510bhp Competition model that hit 62mph in just 3.9sec and hit its limited top speed of 155mph, while for added power the M4 CSL delivers 473bhp along with carbon bucket seats and reduced sound deadening to reduce weight even further.

Power

BMW stands alone when it comes to the powering of performance coupes, and few automakers can rival its M division for creating powerful four-Series models. Their M division specializes in equipping these four-Series cars with twin turbo inline six cylinder engines and other upgrades that turn these 4-Series vehicles into true DTM brawlers that can handle themselves on the Nurburgring as easily as carrying groceries around town. Their M4 two-door version of the M3 super sedan borrows its engine's 473 horsepower engine; using six speed manual transmission; ultra intense Competition trim ramps up output to 503 horsepower using eight speed auto; all-wheel drive can also be an option.

Inside of an M4's cockpit can be found a thick model-specific steering wheel and electrically adjustable sports seats as standard equipment, along with plenty of M-badges indicating its uniqueness. If you want to upgrade even further with carbon fiber bucket seats available as an upgrade.

BMW's current single dashboard display that houses both instrument panel and infotainment system may disappoint some purists, but its iDrive software is simple to navigate and responsive to input from either its vestigial control knob or 10.3-inch touchscreen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration is included as is premium Harman Kardon audio system; additional driver aids such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot warning, and parking sensors round out its offering in M4.

If that wasn't enough, you can outfit the M4 with BMW M Performance parts to further increase its handling prowess and aesthetic. One such accessory is the M Sport exhaust which not only saves weight but delivers an aggressive baritone tone when driving in Sport or Sport Plus drive modes.

Performance

With its impressive power output and quick-shifting dual-clutch automatic transmission, the M4 easily outshines its competitors in Edmunds' performance tests. It accelerated from zero to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds before crossing the quarter mile in 11.6 seconds at 122 mph; competing equally with Chevrolet Corvette C7 Z06 and Mercedes-AMG C 63 coupe models.

The M4 is one of the quickest four-doors on the market, especially if equipped with its Competition Package featuring additional power and tweaks. And unlike some BMW models, its acceleration doesn't feel too heavy when pressing hard on the gas pedal.

For added peace of mind, the M4 offers various driver aids like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot warning. Furthermore, this car offers ample trunk space and rear headroom compared to many performance vehicles.

The standard iDrive infotainment system is easy to use and offers plenty of ways to manage settings - whether via its console-mounted rotary controller, steering wheel buttons or voice controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration is also supported and wireless connectivity can be achieved easily.

Whoever wishes to amp up their engine's roar even louder can press a button on the center console to activate M mode and open valves in two of its exhaust pipes for a more robust sound. As per owner's manual cautions against doing this when warming the engine up at standstill, we advise activating M mode only when your vehicle is cold and running normally at normal operating speed.

The 2023 M4 CSL boasts carbon fiber trim in its already impressive interior, as well as upgrades such as ducktail rear spoiler, increased horsepower, and more aggressive suspension setup. Furthermore, this model introduces a special drive mode designed to emphasize performance theater over roadholding finesse.

Technology

The 2024 BMW M4 boasts cutting-edge technologies and innovations, seamlessly merging motorsports flair with cutting-edge digitalization. It features an ergonomic single dashboard display containing both instrument cluster and infotainment interface - which may displease BMW purists - offering multiple control options such as voice commands or buttons on its steering wheel.

The M4's advanced aerodynamics enable it to reach astounding speeds with minimal drag, while improving stability and grip at high speeds. Its sleek body lines create downforce that balances out engine torque while remaining planted when cornering.

Add the M Driver's Package for maximum potential from your M4's turbocharged inline-6-cylinder engine - its output increases from 368kW (500hp) to an electronically limited top speed of 280 km/h (155 mph)! In addition, adding M Carbon Ceramic Brakes may further increase stopping power.

In addition to safety features, the M4 offers advanced driver assistance features like BMW's Head-Up Display and Augmented View for navigation and driving information projection, while their BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant enables voice command control of vehicle settings, navigation systems and entertainment systems with ease.

Accessing a sportscar should be accessible for everyone, no matter their physical limitations. That's why the 2022 M4 provides an accessible Hand Control option that makes operating accelerator and brake pedals simpler even for those without mobility in their legs. This quick-install system works alongside its standard electric power steering to make driving simpler - available both Coupe and Convertible models you can request it when ordering your model.

Interior

The M4 offers much to its owner: from power from off idle all the way to redline and turbo lag that's minimal to its acceleration time of just 3.7 seconds according to Edmunds, it will captivate you. While its standard model may suffice, for an added thrill choose Competition model; this offers additional power as well as enhanced performance tires for added agility.

Step inside an M4 and you'll discover an ergonomic interior designed to balance comfort with high-speed support, including heated sport seats, 16-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound system and leather upholstery. Furthermore, BMW Live Cockpit Professional puts control at your fingertips through its 14.9-inch infotainment screen and iDrive 8 operating system.

2024 marks a significant upgrade for the M4 cockpit. Equipped with BMW's Curved Display - an amalgamation of digital instrument cluster and infotainment screen into one seamless piece - allows drivers to easily see all important data on one large display while offering voice command functionality and customizing their user experience.

The M4 has ample storage space, from door pockets and center console bins to rear seat cupholders and rear cupholders. The trunk can accommodate two full-size suitcases easily while an included cargo net provides even more storage solutions and offers easy access via its power tailgate.

Value

The 2022 BMW M4 is an exceptional value and makes an attractive option for drivers seeking high-performance sports coupe. Its estimated fuel economy of 16 mpg city/23 highway makes it among the best of its class; and its spacious interior provides ample storage space as well as seating for five. Furthermore, the rear split/fold capability extends practicality during long road trips while featuring both reversing camera technology and surround-view parking system features.

The M4 comes in two trim levels, standard and Competition. The latter adds a 503 horsepower engine with all-wheel drive capabilities for added performance. This potency positions it as an effective competitor to cars like Mercedes-AMG C63 S and Porsche 911 Turbo.

Both versions deliver impressive acceleration and handling, even with active dampers installed as an optional extra. Both also include standard safety features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision warning system, lane departure warning system, driver fatigue monitoring and an emergency braking system; additionally there are front and rear parking sensors, surround view camera as well as traffic jam assist that controls braking acceleration steering system management.

M4 infotainment system is easily manageable thanks to its redundant dial controller and voice command features, as well as its 14.9-inch curved screen that blends in seamlessly with 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. BMW recently introduced new smartphone-style interface and menu structures as part of their model-year update for BMW iDrive software, making the M4's infotainment experience even simpler and user-friendly.

Buyers of an M4 can select from a selection of premium materials for its interior, such as black and white leather, alcantara, and wood trim. In addition to standard power seat and mirror features such as heated/cooled front seats and panoramic moonroofs.