BMW M4 Review

Gumtree Rating

4.0 rating

In 2014, BMW introduced the first M4 – a high-performance two-door to replace the much-loved 3 Series Coupe. It quickly became a class leader among high-end executive models, sitting pretty at the top alongside the Mercedes AMG C63 and the Audi S5 Coupe. This rear-wheel drive monster has undergone several changes over the years, each more stylish than the last. The 2020 model comes as a coupe or convertible, offering two trim options. With its aggressive design and nimbleness, it’s a great option for anyone that enjoys an exciting ride.

Visit the BMW M4 model page to read more about the range.

What we think about the BMW M4

The BMW M4 marries functionality with a sleek design that guarantees to turn heads.

Pros

+

Lightning-quick speed

+

Superb design

+

Responsive handling

+

Adaptive suspension

Cons

Insufficient rear legroom

Road noise

The M4 was created by BMW’s Motorsport division as a high-performance version of the M Series. Equipped to impress, models run on 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged straight-six engines in rear-wheel or four-wheel-drive. The M4 is available in four trim levels for each body style.

Driving performance of the Bmw M4

Our Driving Rating8 / 10

The BMW M4 brings the thrill of driving a sports car to everyday road users. Whether you prefer having the wind in your hair with the convertible or the roof over your head in the coupe, driving the M4 is always exciting. It possesses an impressive grip that enables you to turn corners smoothly at speed. Top speed for all models is electronically limited at 155 mph except in the GT. All iterations come with three steering settings: Sport, Sport+, and Comfort – the latter being your best bet for going over bumps.

Safety and reliability of the Bmw M4

Our Safety Rating7 / 10

While the M4 has not yet been crash-rated by Euro NCAP, BMW offers a complimentary Intensive Driving Experience course for drivers. The M4 is well equipped with standard safety systems, and all models come with six airbags and upgraded brakes. It notably lacks an Autonomous Emergency Brake (AEB) system, but it offers other advanced features – the fatigue detection system scans the face for signs of drowsiness and alerts the driver to park and rest. Although not necessarily a great family car, the rear seats have Isofix child-restraint tethers to secure your child’s seat firmly.

Under the bonnet of the Bmw M4

Our Engine Rating9 / 10

The M4 shares similar engine and chassis components with the M3. Its bonnet houses a powerful twin-turbocharged in-line six-cylinder engine with a choice between a six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The automatic option provides swifter gearshifts and more speed. For an extra cost, the M4 can be equipped with the Competition package, which increases its power to a stunning 444 bhp. The M4 convertible accelerates from 0-62 mph in 4.6 seconds, while the coupe takes just 4.3 seconds.

What you'll find in the Bmw M4

Our Design Rating8 / 10

The M4 features a huge grille, much like the 4 Series coupe, but it distinguishes itself with a more aggressive body. It has a chiselled power dome bonnet and a choice of 19-inch alloy wheels in black or silver, or 18-inch silver alloys. With the Competition package, you can score an even more intimidating look for your M4 with 20-inch multi-spoke forged alloy wheels. The convertible variant sports a three-piece folding metal hardtop which adds considerable weight, which is why it’s a little slower than the coupe. Exterior colour choices range from the darker black and grey, to the more eye-catching Austin Yellow and Yas Marina Blue.

Comfort and interiors in the Bmw M4

Our Comfort Rating7 / 10

The interior of the BMW M4 speaks of class and attention to detail. The gloss carbon fibre material that covers the dashboard and centre console gives it a luxurious appeal and sets it apart in the M Series. There’s adequate space in the front but not much in the way of headroom in the rear, which makes things cramped for passengers. The cockpit offers a well-arranged suite of tech including a full-colour BMW head-up display, satnav, and integrated systems and displays. In the convertible, the retractable roof eats into the boot space, and both styles suffer from a pretty noisy cabin.

BMW M4 front interior seats

What features you'll find in the Bmw M4

Our Features Rating8 / 10

All models of the M4 get the latest BMW iDrive tech as standard. The 2020 variant is fitted with the iDrive 7.0 Operating System, which includes an 8.8-inch HD screen, an impressively clear and unobtrusive head-up display, personal assistant voice command, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It’s equipped with Digital Key technology so you can even lock and unlock your car from your iPhone. Another impressive feature in the latest model is BMW’s sophisticated Real Time Traffic Information (RTTI) system, that gives you updates on works and delays on the route ahead.

What fuel efficiency to expect from the Bmw M4

Our Fuel Consumption Rating8 / 10

The BMW M4 is considerably more frugal than the preceding M3 models thanks to its turbocharged engine. In terms of efficiency, it lands fairly squarely in the middle of its competition, with fuel economy for the M4 coupe estimated at 19 miles per gallon, and a slightly higher 20 mpg for the convertible. CO2 emissions in the coupe range between 225 – 227 g/km, versus 230 – 233 g/km for the convertible, making the coupe the more planet-friendly option of the two styles.

Running costs of the Bmw M4

Our Cost Rating7 / 10

There’s no denying it: the BMW M4 can get pretty expensive to maintain, with the model falling within insurance group 43. It’s competitive among its rivals in this regard, however – the Audi RS5 is actually several groups higher. As is standard for all BMWs, the M4 is covered by a three-year unlimited-mileage warranty, while servicing is condition-based.

Our verdict of the Bmw M4

4.0 rating

4 / 5 Gumtree rating

The BMW M4 is for the daring. If you value powerful design and a punchy engine, and don't mind a few minor shortcomings, this is a standout model.