2022 BMW M4 Coupe

Now that the G82 BMW M4 has been in the USA for a year, many have become accustomed to its bold, buck-toothed face. Regardless, you can't have a conversation about this car without its visuals dominating the discussion. Looks aside, the Bavarian compact luxury performance coupe has been winning the hearts of enthusiasts, thanks to its distinctive dynamic characteristics and fluid engine performance.

The twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine that sits under the hood maintains its output of 473 horsepower for the base model and 503 hp in Competition grade. This sort of variation can be found in the soon-to-be-replaced Mercedes-AMG C63 Coupe with its 503-hp S option, but not in the Audi RS5 Coupe. Where the M4 stands out amongst rivals is that it can be had with a manual gearbox and the option of rear- or all-wheel drive. Giving consumers this choice is part of what has translated to positive sales for BMW M since it launched the performance coupe.

Obviously, the most distinctive feature of the M4 Coupe is the kidney grille, but slim LED head- and taillights, together with aggressive undertones provided by the diffuser, trunk spoiler, and quad-exhaust system, ensures a sleek presence. A set of 18-inch front and 19-inch rear combination wheels sits on the base trim. The Competition gets a one-inch increase front and rear and adds the Extended Shadowline package with unique badges and high-gloss black exterior accents.

The dimensions of the BMW M4 Coupe are consistent with rivals in the compact coupe segment, measuring 189.1 inches in length, 74.3 inches in width (excluding the door mirrors), and standing 54.8 inches tall. The height increases to 54.9 inches on xDrive variants. This makes it slightly larger than the C63 and RS5 Coupe. The C63 is just a bit taller than the Bavarian, though. All models have a 112.5-inch wheelbase.

In base guise, the M4 Coupe has a curb weight of 3,830 pounds. The Competition's auto transmission increases this to 3,880 lbs while the xDrive maxes this out with a weight of 3,979 lbs. Despite the increases, all models maintain a 53/47% weight balance to varying degrees, with the xDrive hosting a bit more mass on the nose.

Two new colors have been added to the M4 Coupe palette for 2022: Aventurin Red and Skyscraper Grey Metallic. Alpine White and Sao Paulo Yellow remain the no-cost shades for the range while the Skyscraper Grey joins Portimao Blue, Toronto Red, Isle of Man Green, and Brooklyn Grey as the $550 metallic options. Aventurin Red is added to the Dravit Grey and Tanzanite Blue II BMW Individual Metallic colors for $1,950, while the matte-finish Frozen Brilliant White and Portimao Blue Metallic colors top the range off at $3,600.

If you want to harness the full technical ability of the M4 Coupe, the xDrive derivative is going to be the best choice. It maintains the Competition's 503 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque and adds a bit of weight to the body, but thanks to all-wheel drive, it's able to best the rear-wheel-drive Competition's 0-60 mph time by 0.4 seconds - now down to 3.4. Top speed is 155 mph, but ticking the box for the M Performance package will raise it to 180 mph.

If you have a love for manual labor, the M4 Coupe in its base state uses the six-speed gearbox to divvy out 473 hp and 406 lb-ft to the rear wheels only. BMW claims a 0-60 mph time of 4.1 seconds, but the top speed remains the same as its more powerful peers. While this model doesn't quite match up to the likes of the C63 S and RS5 Coupe's 0-60 mph times of 3.7 seconds, the xDrive variant more than proves its worth in the acceleration department.

All three derivatives of the BMW M4 Coupe are powered by the brand's S58 3.0-liter inline-six engine which sports a pair of single-scroll turbochargers. The base model M4 delivers 473 hp while the Competition pushes out 503 hp. Both of these derivatives boast a peak power engine speed of 6,250 rpm and can continue to reach a rather impressive redline of 7,200 rpm. As for torque delivery, the base model offers 406 lb-ft from 2,750-5,500 rpm while the Competition delivers 479 lb-ft from 2,750-5,500 rpm.

BMW's decision to move away from the M-DCT and embrace the advancements of torque converters with its eight-speed M Steptronic in the Competition models has proved to be beneficial. Admittedly, the level of aggression between shifts has been drastically reduced but the proof of performance is certainly in the pudding. The M4 Competition is able to transmit power to the wheels with rapid responsiveness.

The down-to-earth manual gearbox in the base trim stays true to the many models that have come before the G82 M4. It's slick and satisfying to operate, but there are moments when it has a notchy feel. Both transmissions are well-suited to performance and casual driving situations, though.

With the new BMW M4, the brand has shifted away from the F82-generation's temperamental nature by enhancing ride comfort. Largely thanks to the benefits of BMW's CLAR modular platform, the new model has evolved into a performance car that can accommodate daily usage a bit more than before. Given the suspension is still on the stiffer side, the chassis is susceptible to bumps and potholes in the road. These are a bit more apparent to the driver and passenger if you have selected the optional carbon bucket seats, which have less padding than the standard M Sport set.

With the addition of the adaptive M suspension and M Drive modes as standard, the M4 can easily transform itself from being a daily commuter to a sharpened apex predator. Where things get a bit tricky for the driver is managing the electronically assisted steering system. While pleasantly weighty and generous on feedback, it translates a peculiar twitchy feeling on the rear axle, as we mentioned in our previous BMW M4 review. At first, this can be a little alarming because it gives the impression that the rear is losing control, so it takes a bit of time to get used to this characteristic.

Thankfully, on the xDrive model, this feeling is less noticeable because of the additional grip afforded by the front driving wheels together with a unique suspension setup and specifically tuned steering. With the removal of the lively rear-end, the M4 is transformed into a rewarding and thrilling track machine that provides the driver with immense acceleration and lateral capabilities. Although, some of the challenge is taken away by adding more grip and shortening the steering ratio. If want to add more excitement to the drive, there is the option of deactivating the front driving wheels via the Active M differential and turning off the electronic assists through the M Dynamic Mode.

The BMW M4 offers impressive acceleration characteristics which are complemented by superb braking abilities. The M Compound ventilated brakes are standard on all models which, when paired to the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tire compound, delivers prompt stopping abilities, making it ideal for both daily and performance-minded driving.

As the BMW M4 is a top-end gasoline-powered performance car, it would be unfair to expect great fuel economy, and the EPA estimates reflect that. The 16/23/19 mpg city/highway/combined gas mileage estimates for the rear-wheel-drive models (both regular and Competition) drop to 16/22/18 mpg when all wheels are tasked with doing the work. Both drivetrains source fuel from a 15.6-gallon tank, which gives the former a range of about 296 miles and the latter, around 281 miles.

The Audi RS5 Coupe employs a similarly sized twin-turbo 2.9-liter V6 with a lower 444-hp output but manages an 18/25/21 mpg rating, which is noticeably better than the BMW. Even more staggering is the fact that the Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupe, which uses a larger twin-turbo 4.0-liter engine with an output of 503 hp, manages estimates of 17/26/20 mpg.

In line with the current standards of the brand, the interior of the BMW M4 is characterized by high-quality materials and top-notch build quality. The dashboard is home to a series of analog buttons and dials that are pleasant to touch and operate. Select trims and panels do suffer from the application of tacky plastics, predominately around the steering wheel controls, but for the most part, materials and fit and finish are exemplary.

The Competition model gives occupants a pleasant blend of executive and sporty design cues before even ticking options. Once you get creative with the configurator, the M carbon bucket seats and vibrant Merino leather upholstery packages can add a sporty flair to further enhance the ambiance. As standard, the interior is packed with comfort and convenience features including ambient lighting, power-adjustable M Sport seats with heating and lumbar adjustment, and automatic tri-zone climate control. A large 10.25-inch infotainment screen fits in well with the modern feel.

The benefit of the CLAR platform means that BMW was able to provide the M4 Coupe with generous interior dimensions. Granted, this model doesn't feature a five-seat layout, as that role is fulfilled by the M3 Sedan. Instead, it seats four, with front headroom measuring 40.3 inches, and with 41.7 inches of legroom, even taller folk will feel comfortable in the front seats.

The rear seat is a bit more cramped with headroom and legroom of 35.8 and 34.7 inches respectively, and shoulder room of 51 inches. The M3 sedan bests this with its 37.8- and 35.6- inch rear legroom and headroom figure.

BMW gives buyers in the US the option to create a unique cabin environment that ranges from elegant and executive to sporty. In its standard guise, items such as the M Sport seats with M-specific seat belts, an anthracite headliner, and aluminum Tetragon interior trim are applied to offer an M Performance layout. If you want more distinctive elements, the Carbon Fiber inlays are available for $950. Top-of-the-range trimmings include the Individual Piano Black, Aluminum, or Open-pored Black Wood with Silver Effect at $1,080.

As with BMW products, individuality is always a key drawing card. In the M4, this ethos remains true. Eight Extended Merino leather upholstery combination options include the vibrant Yas Marina Blue and Black with yellow accents, Silverstone and black, and Kyalami Orange and Black shades together with a more conservative Black, Fiona Red and black, Tartufo brown, Ivory White, and Fjord Blue and black option. Full Merino leather upholstery is available for all these combinations at the additional cost of $2,550.

The CLAR platform's packaging advantages are also prevalent in the BMW M4 Coupe's 12 cubic feet of trunk space. The compartment is shallow but long and gives users sufficient trunk space for more than your average grocery run, or bags for a weekend away for two. If you need to expand this further, you can do so by folding the 40:20:40 rear bench.

Small-item storage facilities aren't too generous, but the M4 Coupe's cabin does have door pockets front and back, a glove compartment, a center armrest bin, and a console just beneath the climate controls. Cupholders can also be found in the center console but be wary of the size of your drink, as anything too tall can get in your way of operating the gear selector.

The European business model of stacking all the trendy features as packages is rife in the BMW M4 Coupe, but in its standard guise, the features list is still generous. The M Sport seats are heated while the multi-zone climate control ensures custom temperatures for all passengers. Keyless entry with a push-button ignition is included for ease of access while a backup camera with front and rear parking sensors, dynamic cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, and auto-on headlights with automatic high beams are standard conveniences for daily usage. Live Cockpit Professional is also included off the bat, featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Unfortunately, it's not as customizable as the one you would find in the likes of Mercedes-AMG cars. The Active driving assistant is standard from the base M4 Coupe and includes frontal collision warning, blind-spot detection, lane departure warning, and speed limit information.

A sunroof is available at no extra cost but selecting this will see the removal of the carbon fiber roof. Buyers also have access to ventilated front seats, M carbon bucket seats, wireless charging and a Wi-Fi hotspot, parking assistance, a drive recorder, gesture control, a heated steering wheel, and a head-up display through various optional packages.

The BMW iDrive 7 infotainment system that comes standard across the M4 lineup is a little dated, and the more advanced eighth-generation software is set to be implemented across the BMW family. Regardless, the software is still comprehensive, with the benefit of an easy-to-use navigation system that is pleasant to operate via the 10.25-inch touchscreen. Keeping to the analog traditions, the rotary dial in the center console remains. Gesture control can be added.

The standard sound system is a 16-speaker, 464-watt Harman Kardon sound system which can play music via devices connected through USB or Bluetooth. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto can be used wirelessly while a SiriusXM with 360L and one-year all-access subscription ensures your entertainment needs.

At the time of writing, there have been no recalls issued for the 2022 BMW M4 range. However, there are two recalls for the 2021 model. One of which is for a malfunctioning passenger seatbelt which could increase the risk of injury in a collision while the other is related to a possible failure of the ABS. J.D. Power is yet to provide a reliability rating for the M4 range, but it has given the 4 Series range an overall score of 85.

Peace of mind after purchase is provided by BMW's standard four-year/50,000-mile limited warranty together with a three-year/36,000 miles complimentary maintenance and 12-year rust and perforation warranty.

While the BMW M4 Coupe has been available to the market for a good few months, it hasn't been subjected to safety reviews by the NHTSA or IIHS. The G20 BMW 3 Series, which shares the M4 Coupe's CLAR platform, did manage to score four five-star ratings in its NHTSA safety review, and equally impressive results from the IIHS, so we'd anticipate that its performance-derived relative wouldn't fare too badly in a crash test.

Considering the BMW M4 Coupe can reach immense speeds, it is a relief that the level of standard safety features is comprehensive. Key driver and safety assist systems such as cornering and dynamic brake control are bolstered by an eight airbag configuration, and tire pressure monitoring.

Standard active protection includes automatic tensioning of the front seatbelts, closing of the windows and moonroof, and post-crash braking. Fatigue and focus alert advises when the system thinks you have been on the road for too long. From the base trim, you get Active driving assists like lane departure warning, active blind-spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear collision preparation. A backup camera, front and rear park distance control, and dynamic cruise control are all standard. A head-up display and a parking assistant plus can be optioned on by means of the available packages.

The BMW M4 Coupe is a hard car to bet against, just as previous compact M products have been. The Bavarian sporting division has managed to find the perfect balance of dynamics and comfort in both the chassis and drivetrain. Now that it has the advantage of the xDrive system, the Audi RS5 is going to have a hard time keeping up. The Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupe will also struggle but we wait in anticipation to see what the upcoming C206 generation will have to offer with its gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain.

If you are looking to go fast around the bends and straights, there is nothing that will do it better in this segment than the M4 Coupe. It's also one of the few German sports cars to be offered with a manual gearbox, affirming its stance as an offering that aims to appease the enthusiast market. Dialing down the aggression from the F82 M4 has also made the new generation model fit the daily driver profile more appropriately.

Excluding the $995 destination and handling charge, the BMW M4 Coupe has a base price of $72,000. The Competition raises this MSRP to $74,900 which is less of a jump than the xDrive's price of $79,000. If you load it up with all of the available options and packages, the BMW M4's price can increase to more than $110,000.

For the sake of comparison, the Audi RS5 range starts at $75,900 before destination, but this does come with the quattro all-wheel drive. While it is still available to order, the 2021 AMG C63 Coupe starts at $70,650 and the C63 S, $78,250.

The BMW M4 Coupe can be had in three different trims, namely, the base M4 Coupe, Competition, and Competition xDrive. The model range starts with the base trim which is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine delivering 473 hp and 406 lb-ft to the rear wheels with a six-speed manual gearbox. It comes with a set of 18-inch front and 19-inch rear alloy wheels, 14-way electronically adjustable sports seats, an M sport differential, adaptive suspension, a backup camera with front and rear parking sensors, ambient lighting, and more.

This is followed by the Competition which uses the same engine dialed up to produce 503 hp and 473 lb-ft to the rears via an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. The Competition xDrive derivative enters the range as the new flagship without adding any extra power, but the all-wheel drive system certainly proves its worth. Visual exterior highlights include 19/20-inch alloy wheels, front and rear LED lights, and extended Shadowline trimmings. Inside, a distinctive look is provided by the M Sport seats with M seatbelts, ambient lighting, and aluminum tetragon details. The 10.25-inch infotainment and 12.3-inch instrument cluster act as digital displays for key pieces of information and controls and are standard across the range.

The catalog of packages and options available for the BMW M4 Coupe range is lengthy. Given it is a performance car first and foremost, the $8,150 M Carbon Ceramic Brakes and $900 M Drive Professional are crucial options. The latter grants you access to the M Track mode, 10-stage traction adjuster, M Drift Analyzer, and Laptimer app for your smartphone. If you want to become more accustomed to the dynamics of your M4, also consider the M Driver's Package, which includes a one-day driving class at the company's performance center. Ticking this also increases the top speed to 180 mph, but it will add $2,500 to the final cost of the BMW M4.

If tight parking spots are your weakness, the $800 Parking Assist Plus Package will make things easier via semi-autonomous parking capabilities. With the Executive Package, BMW's gesture control, head-up display, remote engine start, heated steering wheel, and electronically powered trunk-lid are added to the M4 Coupe for $1,550 and $1,800 for the Competition models.

Spending another $4,700 will give you access to the M Carbon Exterior Package which adds sporty highlights throughout the body. If you have plans to make the most of the performance car's lateral abilities, the M carbon bucket seats would come in handy at $3,800 but this removes the ability to add seat ventilation at $350. If low light conditions are frequented, BMW also offers the Icon Adaptive LED headlights with Laserlight technology for $1,000.

The BMW M4 Coupe has been laid out to appeal to a variety of customers. If you want a pure and unfiltered experience, the $72,000 base trim with its six-speed manual and comprehensive list of standard features, including seat heating, dynamic cruise control, park distance control with a backup camera, keyless entry, and the Harmon Kardon surround sound system will be the best choice as it never fails to excite and thrill. The price gap between this car and a fully loaded Competition xDrive model is notable. Ticking every box on the flagship derivative will see you ordering a $110,000 car before destination. Configure this car with restraint and think hard about which features you will really need to use to fully enjoy your ownership experience.

If your heart is still set on a V8-powered performance coupe with unruly driving characteristics, then the AMG C63 Coupe is a compelling argument. Granted, a manual gearbox and all-wheel drive option are lacking but the 9G-Tronic automatic transmission ensures a seamless delivery of power to the rears. Despite the muscular flared arches, this car also exercises more restraint in the looks department. The C63 is slightly outgunned by the base M4 with a power output of 469 hp while the S balances out with the Competition at 503 hp. A price tag of $70,650 MSRP for the C63 equates to a minor saving over the base M4, but the S's asking price of $78,250 is substantially more than the RWD Competition. This soon-to-be-replaced model will see the departure of the breathtaking M177 twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 which would make this your last opportunity to get your hands on an eight-cylinder mid-sized performance coupe from Mercedes-AMG.

Due to the overall conservative nature of the Audi brand, the RS5 Coupe has always been seen as the safer option among the German trio, but with this generation that isn't entirely the case. Like BMW, Audi made the decision to make the switch to a six-cylinder powertrain for its competitor with a drive system that is more rear-biased than before. While responsive and smooth, partially thanks to the effective eight-speed Tiptronic transmission, this powertrain is down on power compared to the base M4 at 444 hp, but it has the edge with its quattro AWD system. Now that the M4 Coupe is offered with xDrive, especially in a more powerful Competition trim, this car is going to struggle to keep up with its 0-60 mph time of 3.7 seconds. While Audi's all-wheel-drive system is tried and tested when combined with the front and rear multi-link setup here, the RS5 struggles to translate cornering dynamics that are as sharp as what you would find in the M4 Coupe. At $75,900, it's just marginally more expensive than the RWD M4 Competition.