The success of the powerful BMW M Series bestsellers in the premium mid-size sector of the car market continues with the introduction of the newly revised BMW M4 Competition Coupé and its convertible sibling. As if these models needed it, they now boast more power, augmented by sharpened design features, new customisation options and digital innovations, yet remaining true to the M Class motor sport DNA.
The Looks
The view from the kerb is pretty much the same as before as can be seen in our photos, but there’s still plenty of new features too, with the usual compliment of safety technology. The redesigned headlights give the front end of both the M4 coupé and the convertible a modern, up-to-the-minute look. The inside of the LED headlights is even more distinctively structured featuring further developments in their functionality as both the low and high beam are now produced by the same LED module. Two vertical LED units, each aligned in an arrowhead shape, assume the function of position and daytime running lights as well as direction indicators. The technology-oriented design of these new light sources provides for a sophisticated and progressive look. Adaptive LED headlights (part of the BMW Technology Pack) with anti-glare matrix high beam are available as an optional feature.
The latter are recognisable by the blue inserts and feature an urban light and cornering light function. With car lights it is no longer a matter of on or off; it’s all high tech these days. For example, using the urban light function ensures optimised illumination of the roadside areas when travelling at low speeds on roads identified by the navigation data as built-up areas. The low beam function, however, is only activated when a speed of 22 mph has been reached.
A new design of the surrounding surface of the both the BMW logo and the M logo at the rear of the M4 Competition models add further subtle accents for added elegance. The base of the BMW logo is now finished in High Gloss Black, for example. The BMW M brand logo situated on the rear boot (trunk) lid has been complemented by a silver surround. A model-specific M Carbon exterior package is available for precise customisation of these high-performance cars, bringing to the fore the racing character of both models even more intensively. The M Carbon exterior package includes inserts for the wide-open front air intakes and a rear diffuser, each featuring its own geometry, exterior mirror caps and a rear spoiler.
A special feature designed exclusively for the model variants of the new BMW M4 Coupé for customisation of the external appearance are optional M design graphics for the bonnet (hood) and the rear boot lid. This contrasting colour emphasises the sporting characteristics of the two-door model and is available either in High Gloss Black or High Gloss Red. The roof is carbon but an optional steel roof is available at no extra cost and includes an electrically operated glass sliding roof, offering an additional design accent: The sheet metal part of the roof is again finished in High Gloss Black instead of the body colour.
New style forged light alloy wheels complete the package with 19 inch rims at the front and 20 inch at the back.
The Ride
Inside, it’s the equivalent of a modern motor racing environment. New steering wheel designs and control elements as well as high-class materials for the instrument panel and interior trims enhance the exclusive ambience inside the M-specific sports-car-like cockpits.
The standard M leather (Alcantara is an option) steering wheel with multifunction buttons, two M buttons and shift paddles now convey to the driver an even more intensive racetrack feel. The new design comprises a flattened lower section of the steering wheel rim and concisely modified spokes. A red centre marking in the 12 o’clock position underscores the sporty orientation of the steering wheel design. In addition, a heating function is optionally available for both steering wheel variants.
The M-specific cockpit arrangement also includes a control panel on the centre console, on which the shift lever or gear selector switch, the crucial red Start/Stop button, the BMW iDrive Controller, the Setup and M Mode buttons are situated. These can be activated for individual vehicle configuration as well as for the range of functions of cockpit displays and driver assistance systems, which can be adapted to suit the driving situation at hand.
The combination of sporty flair and premium quality ambience inside the vehicle highlights the characteristics of M vehicles. The interior trims around the dashboard, the control panel and the cupholder cover now come as standard in Aluminium ‘Rhombicle Anthracite’ M Interior trim, as well as a Carbon Fibre finish available to order as an option.
The electrically adjustable M sports seats are fitted as standard and come with integrated headrests and illuminated model logos. The ideal position behind the wheel can be stored using the memory function. Heated seats for both driver and front passenger are also standard, with seat ventilation as an option. Standard leather trim is available in four different colours.
The optional and also fully electrically adjustable and heated M Carbon bucket seats (a must-have option, this one) provide for an optimised connection between driver and vehicle. They combine motor racing functionality with lightweight design, cutting-edge workmanship and, importantly (this is primarily a road car after all) a high level of long-distance comfort. The use of Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic for the structural elements of the seat and backrest, as well as cut-outs within the area of the side bolsters and beneath the headrests aid performance because of the weight saving over the standard-fit chairs.
The convertible benefits from an ‘Air Collar’ that generates a three-stage adjustable airflow, providing pleasant warmth from behind to both driver and front passenger, also during open-top driving and regardless of the outside temperature.
More than ever before, both versions of the BMW M4 combine exclusive sports car flair with advanced digitalisation. M-specific information on the high-resolution BMW Curved Display, which is inclined towards the driver, helps the driver to focus fully on the task at hand. The fully digital display combination comprises a 12.3 inch display behind the steering wheel and a control monitor with a 14.9 inch screen diagonal.
The Drive
It’s likely that BMW fans are more than well aware of the performance of BMW M models. They drive with a finesse and handling that many rivals cannot come close to matching. Now, the M4 variants both come with all-wheel-drive; a track-oriented handling and grip combination that’s hard to beat.
Under the bonnet (hood), the straight six-cylinder power units used in the new BMW M4 Competition coupé and convertible combine the typical high-revving characteristics offered by engines from BMW M with the current version of M ‘TwinPower’ Turbo Technology. The three litre engine impresses with responsive power delivery and high-torque characteristics up into the highest load ranges. These attributes are responsible for those unmistakable, linear performance characteristics, which have always been the hallmark of sporting BMW M-badged cars.
If you don’t need all this power, well, there’s a wide range of BMW vehicles to suit any driving or family requirement. From big or compact SUV’s, through regular saloons and on to the M-Series performance powerhouses, MHH International can help find you the car you really want. Our comprehensive export service from the UK, which is VAT-free incidentally, is all that’s needed to put you in the driving seat; especially if it’s a BMW M4!
