Overview

What's New for 2021

The M4 Coupe's starting retail price of $72,000 includes a rear-wheel-drive platform and six-speed manual transmission. All-wheel-drive will be available as well. Those wanting extra power and an automatic transmission can opt for the $75,000 M4 Competition Coupe.

The M4 features grey alloy wheels, an adaptive suspension, a performance exhaust, an M Sport rear differential, M Drive modes, heated front bucket seats, aluminum trim, automatic climate control, keyless entry, a Harman Kardon surround-sound system, auto-dimming mirrors, a rearview camera, and ambient lighting. The iDrive 7 infotainment system utilizes a 10.25-inch display with integrated Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and BMW ConnectedDrive Services.

There are several Active Protection systems built into the M4 to help minimize injury in the event of a collision. If the vehicle senses an impending crash, it will automatically tense the front seat belts and close all of the windows. The car can also initiate post-crash braking. BMW includes additional driver-assistance features to avoid other incidents on the road, like blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning.

Stepping up to the M4 Competition adds 30 extra horsepower, larger Jet Black wheels, an M Steptronic automatic transmission, unique trim accents, and M seat belts.

BMW provides shoppers with several optional features for enhanced comfort and convenience, like an automatic parking system that measures parallel and perpendicular parking spots, handling all steering duties for a trouble-free experience. Other amenities include wireless smartphone charging, a WiFi hotspot, Gesture Control, and a head-up display. The M4 Competition offers a few unique features of its own, like M Carbon bucket seats.

The M4 employs the same engine as the M3 Sedan, a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder producing 473 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. BMW states it can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 4.1 seconds. BMW bucks the recent trend of automated transmissions in sports coupes, equipping the M4 with a quick-shifting six-speed manual gearbox. It's sufficiently modern, though, with Gear Shift Assistant technology that matches engine revs during downshifts to optimize gear changes.

The M4 Competition gets a more powerful version of this engine, producing 503 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. It also gets a more commuter-friendly M Steptronic automatic transmission. There are six unique transmission modes, allowing the driver to select from more comfort- or speed-focused experiences. Large, grippy paddle shifters come standard for rapid-speed gear changes. Acceleration to 60 mph takes a scant 3.8 seconds. BMW has said all-wheel-drive will be an option for the M4 Competition.

Stopping is not an issue, thanks to 15.0-inch front brakes and 14.6-inch rear brakes made from the brand's M Compound material. Optional carbon-ceramic brakes further enhance the car's track abilities.

BMW matches the M4's eye-catching exterior with an understated cabin. Tasteful colors and metal controls accentuate the interior, exhibiting impressive attention to detail. The M4 highlights its enhanced driving abilities from the standard 4 Series Coupe with a thick M steering wheel, red sport buttons, an anthracite headliner, and Merino leather sports seats. The M4 Competition is available with lightweight carbon bucket seats and multi-point seatbelts.

The M4 has a roomier cabin than rivals, providing over 40 inches of headroom for front-seat passengers. Those sitting in the back also have adequate space, with a couple more legroom inches than top competitors offer. Capping the BMW's winning practicality is a large trunk with 15.5 cubic feet of space, much larger than the others. Shoppers can select a power-operated trunk lid for extra convenience. For even more everyday utility, check out the M4's sibling, the BMW M3 Sedan.

A 10.25-inch infotainment screen integrates into the dashboard, running the latest version of BMW's iDrive software. Users can operate the system by voice, touch, or console-mounted dial. It's a versatile and user-friendly setup, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto comes standard for no-fuss smartphone connectivity.