Reviews
Gallery 1
MORE power and sharper dynamics make for a worthwhile addition to the M3 and M4 family.
WHAT IS IT? An extra three models to the BMW M3/M4 family. With mildly revised suspension and engines, the M3 sedan Competition, M4 Coupe Competition and M4 Convertible Competition sit alongside the regular models that continue unchanged.
WHY WE’RE TESTING IT To see if the $5000 premium for the Competition models is worth the spend over the regular M models.
THE WHEELS VERDICT It’s all about the details in BMW’s new M3 and BMW M4 Competition models. But the tweaks to the engine and suspension make for a more engaging drive, especially on the track.
PLUS: Epic free-revving and flexible engine; relishes a track thrash; sharp driver-focused dynamics. MINUS: Artificial six-pot sound more drone than performance; tyre noise; ride on back roads.
It’s not until that point that the torque peak is maintained a fraction longer in the Competition, the latest $5000 plus-pack that sits atop the unchanged M3 and M4 ranges that incorporate sedan, coupe and convertible body styles. Even then it’s difficult to pick, and you’re best keeping the right foot pegged to unleash the extra 14kW that stretches power to a 331kW peak at 6000rpm.
Indeed the exhaust burble – some of it artificial through the speaker system – is more enticing in the Competition, although it’s still more a deep drone than a fluttery match for the V8s that rival BMW’s longest running M.
The iconic M is now faster, too, punching to 100km/h 0.1 seconds quicker, at 4.0 seconds flat. That’s with the occasionally finicky DCT twin-clutch auto that jolts on full throttle upshifts in its most aggressive mode, one of many driver-selectable parameters that unnecessarily adds to the go-fast complexity.
The latest Ms also benefit from dynamic changes. Springs are 15 percent stiffer, so the Comfort mode in the adjustable dampers is closer to the Sport setting in a regular M4.
It makes bumpy backroads that little bit more trying at slow speeds, while the occasionally roaring tyres take the edge off high speed cruising. The plus is a whiff of extra damping control over high speed thumps, something that adds reassurance to an accomplished sporty.
Design changes are subtle, with the exception of the new 20-inch spoked wheels that are an acquired taste against the deeper dish 19s of the standard car. But details nod to the M heritage; black chrome graces everything from the kidney grilles and badge to the quad exhausts. Grab the seatbelt and there’s a subtle blue and red stripe, too. And those body-hugging seats now have cutouts for added flair.
Existing M3/M4 owners won’t feel outclassed, but those shopping new will be rewarded with fractional improvements.
SPECS Model: BMW M4 Coupe Engine: 2979cc inline six-cylinder twin-turbo Max power: 331kW @ 6000rpm Max torque: 550Nm @ 1850-5500rpm Transmission: 7-speed twin-clutch auto Kerb weight: 1540kg 0-100km/h: 4.0sec (claimed) Price: $154,615 On sale: Now
