2022 BMW M4

Overview

The 2022 BMW M4 is just as exciting as its M3 sedan sibling, but only it's available as a coupe or soft-top convertible. Both make our Editors' Choice list. The base hard-top model comes exclusively with rear-wheel drive, a satisfying manual transmission, and a thrilling 473-hp twin-turbo straight-six. The Competition variant gets an enhanced 503-hp engine, a snappy automatic gearbox, and unique chassis tuning that should culminate in quicker lap times at the local racetrack. Only the automatic M4 is available with all-wheel drive, and this slick system features a drift-worthy rear-drive mode. Regardless of the body style or power delivery, the M4 is a hoot to hoon, and its ride is remarkably civil when hunting apexes isn't part of the daily commute. We wish BMW gave it analog gauges instead of indecipherable digital ones, and we'd prefer fewer adjustable drive-mode settings, but overall the 2022 M4 is delightful to drive, and that's what matters.

What's New for 2022?

The big news for the 2022 M4 lineup is the return of a convertible model and the addition of all-wheel drive for the first time. Those opting for the new droptop model, which features a retractable fabric top instead of a hard top, can only get it with the Competition tune and BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system. While this combination is intriguing, it makes the M4 Competition convertible considerably more expensive than its coupe counterpart.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

There are a number of good reasons to spend the extra coin on the M4 Competition, including the extra horsepower and torque as well as the eventual availability of all-wheel drive. However, we'd choose the regular M4 for one really good reason–it's the only one with a satisfying manual transmission. We'd also opt for the lightweight and extra-supportive M Carbon bucket seats as well as the M Drive Professional package (onboard drift analyzer and lap timer) and the M Driver's package, which unlocks a higher top speed and includes a one-day class for high-performance driving.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The M4 is motivated by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six that comes in two potencies. The standard version makes 473 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. It pairs with rear-wheel drive and a six-speed manual transmission. In our testing, this setup shot to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds and cleared the quarter-mile in 12.0 ticks at 121 mph. With 503 horses and 479 pound-feet, the Competition model is even quicker, but the lone transmission choice is an eight-speed automatic. To offset the lack of a stick-shift option, only the M4 Comp can be equipped with a rear-biased all-wheel-drive system. So equipped, the all-wheel drive M4 Competition coupe shaved a full second off the standard car's 60 mph time at our test track with a 2.8-second result. Every M4 comes with adaptive dampers, adjustable brake-pedal feel, and an electronically controlled exhaust system that gets louder in Sport and Sport Plus drive modes. The loudness can also be turned down at any time by pushing the M Sound button. BMW also provides an excessive amount of adjustable drive-mode settings that we think can dilute the driving experience that BMW's engineers envisioned. Thankfully, our time behind the thick-rimmed wheel of the M4 Competition showcased its tenacious acceleration, incredible cornering grip, and resolute stability. We're also happy to report that BMW has improved the coupe's steering feel, just don't expect it to offer the feedback of any two-door Porsche. The regular M4 rides on 18-inch front wheels and 19-inchers in the back while the M4 Competition rolls on a staggered set of 19s in front and 20s in back. Both models also feature a carbon-fiber roof that reduces their center of gravity, and they can be equipped with a set of fade-resistant carbon-ceramic brakes.

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Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The 2022 M4 is rated at up to 16 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway; the all-wheel-drive Competition coupe is rated at 22 mpg highway. We tested the latter on our 75-mph fuel-economy route where it returned an impressive 29 mpg. For more information about the M4's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Although the M4 has the same interior layout and passenger space as the regular 4-series, it boasts a variety of unique materials and some race-inspired options. Its thick-rimmed steering wheel features a pair of red buttons for customizable M drive modes. The cabin can also be enhanced with liberal amounts of carbon-fiber trim pieces and lengthy paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel. The standard M sport seats are substantially bolstered and have an illuminated logo, an integrated headrest, and can be had with ventilation for the first time on an M4. The optional carbon-fiber front seats not only look super cool, but they're also lighter than the standard seats and can be lowered even more. While the back seat obviously isn't as roomy as in the M3 sedan, thankfully the space isn't a torture chamber, with an extra inch of legroom than its predecessor. Opting for the convertible body style unlocks unlimited headroom; simply lower the retractable fabric top.

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Infotainment and Connectivity

Every M4 is outfitted with a slick-looking infotainment system that features a large 12.3-inch touchscreen. It has myriad control options that allow the user to adjust settings and navigate menus via voice commands, buttons on the steering wheel, and a large rotary controller and buttons on the center console. The M4's system comes standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Harman/Kardon audio system. Those who want even fancier features can choose from popular options such as gesture controls, a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot, and a wireless charging pad.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Despite driver engagement being its primary mission, the M4 has a roster of standard and optional driver-assistance technology. For more information about the M4's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:

• Standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
• Standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
• Available adaptive cruise control

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

BMW provides a competitive limited and powertrain warranty that is identical to alternatives from Audi and Mercedes-AMG. It also has better complimentary scheduled maintenance than both brands, but it's not quite as good as what Jaguar provides.

• Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
• Complimentary maintenance is covered for three years or 36,000 miles

More Features and Specs