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- Highs Quick acceleration, still offered with a manual transmission, available Competition Package sharpens handling.
- Lows Firm ride, driving experience lags behind previous M4 models, uninspired cabin design.
- Verdict Although fast and fairly nimble, this M4 lacks the dynamic on-road finesse of its predecessors.
Overview
The BMW M4 seems destined to forever be the second-most-exciting model in the 4-series clan, edged out of first place by the slightly faster M4 CS. Still, the regular M4 remains a hugely desirable performance car, tarnished only by the memory of the enthusiastic driving experience delivered by former M4 models.
What's New for 2018?
Like its lesser siblings, the M4 has been given new headlights incorporating both LED units and a more angular take on BMW’s familiar twin circular running lights. It also gets new LED lights at the rear, subtly changed so that anyone driving an older M4 knows it is wearing last season’s fashion. Other spec tweaks include double stitching for the top of the dashboard and some new chrome interior trim, although the M4 can’t be ordered with the digital instrument package that’s now offered as an option on the standard 4-series.
Pricing
Original MSRP:
- Coupe: $69,695
- Convertible: $78,195
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The M4's turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six, serves up 425 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. If that's not enough, BMW offers the Competition package, which increases output to 444 horses. Either way, it's available with a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. The open-top M4 is fast, but it is markedly less willing (and less agile) than the coupe. Modest compensation is that it sounds nicer with the roof down, being freed from the digital enhancement that BMW has added to the M4’s soundtrack in the cabin. The coupe feels quicker and keener, even when being driven at a steady pace. Much of this is down to the relative lack of mass, which sharpens responses and makes it feel nimbler. But the dual-clutch automatic of our test car also makes a difference, delivering fresh ratios at lightning speed. Although fast and fairly nimble, the M4 continues to lack the driving dynamics of earlier models. It seems to have been engineered to deliver performance metrics rather than the sort of life-enhancing dynamic experience that used to come standard with the M badge.
Fuel Economy
EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The M4's interior has good build quality but a relatively uninspired design. It is well-appointed, with such features as heated front sport bucket seats with 12-way power adjustment, dual-zone climate automatic climate control, a leather steering wheel, and proximity key with push-button start. The cabin is dressed up with leather seat trim, carbon-fiber instrument panel and console inserts, and metal-look accents throughout. Predictably, rear-seat space is at a premium compared to the M4 coupe's sedan sibling, but at least large doors make for easy access. Cabin storage is unimpressive, with fewer bins and cubbies than some competing models, but trunk space is reasonable for a coupe.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The M4's standard tech includes the easy-to-use BMW iDrive interface. It comes with such standard features as an 8.8-inch touchscreen, navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and a Harman/Kardon surround-sound system with SiriusXM satellite radio. There's also some of the latest safety and driver-assistance technology.
Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings
For more information about the BMW M4’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
Warranty
Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.
