Just as the M3 Coupe was a 3-Series Coupe with the dial turned up to 11, the M4 is based off the 4-Series but boasts more underhood might, a thoroughly reworked suspension and racier styling. It also packs a host of new technology features and lightweight materials.
In place of the M3 Coupe's characterful but thirsty 4.0-liter V8 is a downsized 3.0-liter inline-six that relies on twin turbochargers to produce 425 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque from just 1,850 rpm all the way to 5,500 rpm. Those figures represent gains of 11 ponies and, more importantly, 111 lb-ft of twist compared to the old eight, with peak torque arriving 2,050 rpm earlier.
Transmission options include a six-speed manual and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. The standard-equipment stick shift features a rev-matched downshift function and helps the coupe to accelerate from zero-to-60 mph in a claimed 4.1 seconds, while the seven-speed dual-clutch boasts launch control and a slightly quicker sprint time of 3.9 seconds. Also part of the septa-cog's bag of tricks is a "Stability Clutch Control" function that opens one of the clutches in order to quell understeer.
M compound brakes on all four corners and a stiffened, track-tuned suspension keep M4's prodigious power in check. As expected, the M3 Coupe's hydraulic-assist steering gives way to a new, more efficient electric-assist setup with three different effort modes. An optional Adaptive M suspension with electronically-controlled dampers also offers a trio of modes, allowing drivers to prioritize ride comfort or handling agility.
All M4s are equipped with an Active M Differential that keeps tabs on throttle inputs, the rotational speed of the wheels and the car's yaw rates in order to maximize traction.
Thanks in part to the increased use of carbon fiber reinforced plastic and aluminum in the body and suspension, the M4 is an impressive 176 lbs. lighter than the M3 Coupe. Contributing to the weight loss are components like the six-speed manual (-26 lbs.), smaller engine (-22 lbs.) and carbon fiber roof (-11 lbs.).
Looking the Part, Inside and Out
Outside, the M4 wears a heavily-sculpted front bumper, a discreet hood bulge and flared fenders all around. Air curtains mounted in the front apron team up with "Air Breathers" - that's BMW-speak for fender vents - to optimize airflow around the wheel arches and improve aerodynamics. Around back, a diffuser with inset quad tailpipes and a Gurney-style spoiler provide both style and function. Eighteen-inch rims are fitted as standard, while 19-inchers can be specified as an option.
The M4's cabin is closely modeled after the standard 4-Series, which means it includes a quartet of simple, driver-friendly analog gauges and a tablet-style 6.5-inch display screen mounted atop the dashboard that displays stereo and vehicle information. Shell out for the optional navigation system, and the screen is upgraded to a larger 8.8-inch unit.
All secondary systems are controlled through BMW's iDrive infotainment setup, which has evolved over the years from a bewildering complex unit to surprisingly simple and user-friendly system. Redundant controls on the steering wheel and dashboard provide alternate means of accessing the electronics.
The optional navigation system is available with Google point-of-interest search and real time traffic information, and it also features a touchpad mounted on the iDrive knob that lets users write out phone numbers, contact names and navigation destinations - and also zoom in or zoom out the map - with a finger.
Setting the M4 part from the standard 4-Series is an M-specific instrument cluster, a sporty three-spoke multifunction steering wheel, sports seats and carbon fiber trim on the dashboard and on the center console. Naturally, liberal helpings of M badging are also part of the package.
Exterior Measurements
6 ft. 1.6 in. (73.6 in.)
4 ft. 6.4 in. (54.4 in.)
15 ft. 3.9 in. (183.9 in.)
0 ft. 4.8 in. (4.8 in.)
5 ft. 2.2 in. (62.2 in.)
5 ft. 3.1 in. (63.1 in.)
9 ft. 2.7 in. (110.7 in.)
Interior Measurements
39.8 in.
42.2 in.
57.7 in.
36.1 in.
33.7 in.
55.1 in.
Fuel
Gas
Premium unleaded (required)
15.8 gal.
268.6/410.8 mi.
17/26 mpg
Weights and Capacities
860 lbs.
4500 lbs.
0.34 Cd
3530 lbs.
11.0 cu.ft.
11.0 cu.ft.
** When adequately equipped, which may require engine and/or other drivetrain upgrades.
DriveTrain
Rear wheel drive
6-speed manual
Engine & Performance
3.0 L
Double overhead cam (DOHC)
Inline 6
24
Variable
406 ft-lbs. @ 1850 rpm
425 hp @ 5500 rpm
40.0 ft.
Suspension
MacPherson strut front suspension
Multi-link rear suspension
Four-wheel independent suspension
Front and rear stabilizer bar
Features
Interior Features
Front Seats
Multi-level heating passenger seat
10 -way power passenger seat
10 -way power driver seat
Passenger seat with manual adjustable lumbar support
Multi-level heating driver seat
Driver seat with manual adjustable lumbar support
Height adjustable driver seat
Height adjustable passenger seat
Leather/cloth
Sport front seats
Rear Seats
Split-folding rear seatback
Power Features
Remote keyless power door locks
Reverse tilt passenger mirror provides curb view when vehicle in reverse
Thanks for taking the time to share all of this excellent information with us. I enjoyed reading all of this informative details that you provided. Have a great rest of your day. Greg Prosmushkin
1 comments:
Thanks for taking the time to share all of this excellent information with us. I enjoyed reading all of this informative details that you provided. Have a great rest of your day.
Greg Prosmushkin
Post a Comment