2025 BMW M4 Review, Pricing, and Specs (2024)

Overview

The 2025 BMW M4 high-performance coupe is all business: Dense, muscular bodywork haunches down over massive tires, an exaggerated but functional front aerodynamic appliance manages airflow, and a quartet of exhaust pipes announce the arrival of its twin-turbo inline-six engine with blaring intensity. Like the M3 sedan that it shares much of its structural and spiritual DNA with, the M4 benefits from the automaker's M performance division's work on its engine and chassis. The base M4 comes equipped with a 473-hp twin-turbo inline six-cylinder engine mated with a six-speed manual gearbox and rear-drive—the time-honored configuration for maximum driver involvement, and BMW’s decision to keep it on the books speaks volumes. The Competition trim forgoes the manual for an eight-speed automatic, but bumps output to 503 horsepower. All-wheel drive is available on the Competition and, for the 2025 model year, selecting AWD comes with a value-added bonus in the form of an additional 20 horsepower for a total of 523 ponies.The M4's suspension is tuned for performance, and it’ll reward you with stupendous levels of grip on twisty backroads and track days; just know that every pothole and road imperfection will remind you of just how taught that suspension is. That—and the overly complex configurable drive modes—are two important characteristics that we think are handled with more finesse in competitors like the Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing, Mercedes-AMG C63, and Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio.

What's New for 2025?

The Competition Coupe and Competition Convertible models both get an additional 20 horsepower for total output of 523. Both the front and rear illumination elements get fresh designs, the taillamps utilizing laser diode technology inspired by the limited edition M4 CSL. The flat-bottomed steering wheel gets new spoke design, while the infotainment runs on iDrive 8.5, BMW’s latest software version. Also on tap is a new available forged light-alloy wheel design rendered in a bright silver finish.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

The M4 Competition makes a good argument for dropping some additional coin, particularly the 2025 xDrive models which get a slight power boost. That said, we prefer the regular M4 for its manual transmission, rear drive and comparatively complaint ride. We'd also opt for the lightweight and extra-supportive M Carbon bucket seats as well as the M Drive Professional package (onboard drift analyzer and lap timer) and the M Driver's package, which unlocks a higher top speed and includes a one-day class for high-performance driving.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The M4 is motivated by a hearty and responsive twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six that comes in three levels of tune. The version in the base M4 coupe makes 473 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. With rear-wheel drive and a six-speed manual transmission, it’s a powerful and entertaining proposition. The Competition model ramps up the engine’s output to 503 horses and 479 pound-feet, but the lone transmission choice is an eight-speed automatic. As a consolation prize of sorts, the M4 Competition can be equipped with a model-exclusive rear-biased all-wheel-drive system—though it forgoes the visceral thrill of shifting for yourself. Every M4 comes with adaptive dampers, adjustable brake-pedal feel, and an electronically controlled exhaust system that gets louder in Sport and Sport Plus drive modes. The loudness can also be turned down at any time by pushing the M Sound button. BMW also provides an excessive amount of adjustable drive-mode settings that we think can dilute the driving experience that BMW's engineers envisioned. Thankfully, our time behind the thick-rimmed wheel of the M4 Competition showcased its tenacious acceleration, incredible cornering grip, and resolute stability. The regular M4 rides on 18-inch front wheels and 19-inchers in the back while the M4 Competition rolls on a set of staggered 19s in front and 20s in back. The M4 features a carbon-fiber roof that reduces its center of gravity, and it can be equipped with a set of fade-resistant carbon-ceramic brakes.

0–60-MPH Times

In C/D testing, the M4 Coupe reached sixty mph in just 3.8 seconds and cleared the quarter-mile in 12 seconds flat with a trap speed of 121 mph. The Competition model is noticeably quicker, shaving a full second off the standard car's 60-mph time at our test track with a blazing 2.8-second result. For 2025, the M4 Competition Coupe and M4 Competition Convertible xDrive models get a 20-hp power bump for total output of 523-horsepower, enough we hope, to make an incremental improvement in acceleration.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The M4 is EPA-rated for 16 mpg city and 23 mpg highway. During our 75-mph fuel-economy route the six-speed manual rear-wheel-drive M4 achieved 21 mpg, slightly under its EPA estimate. For more information about the M4's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Though the M4 shares its interior layout and passenger space with the regular 4-series coupe, it hews to the sporty side with a variety of unique materials and some race-inspired options. The standard M sport seats feature improved bolstering with an integrated headrest and illuminated logo; ventilation is available. Weight-saving carbon-fiber front seats are available. The M4’s steering wheel has been revised, the new flat-bottom unit with modified spokes available in either genuine leather or faux suede; either way, the thick-rimmed steering wheel features a pair of red buttons for customizable M drive modes. Mild cosmetic updates include a Dark Graphite matte finish for the trim surrounding the dashboard, control panel, and cupholder as standard equipment. The cabin can also be enhanced with additional carbon-fiber trim pieces and lengthy paddle shifters mounted on the steering column. The back seat isn't as roomy as in the M3 sedan, but the space is still genuinely useable for passenger duty. Opting for the convertible body style unlocks unlimited headroom; simply lower the retractable fabric top.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Every M4 is outfitted with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a slick-looking infotainment system that features a large 14.9-inch touchscreen, but 2025 sees the introduction of BMW’s new iDrive 8.5 operating system. Featuring M-specific graphics and content, it also includes updated climate control. Multiple control options allow the user to adjust settings and navigate menus via voice commands, buttons on the steering wheel, and a large rotary controller and buttons on the center console. The M4's system comes standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Harman Kardon audio system. Those who want even fancier features can choose from popular options such as gesture controls, a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot, and a wireless charging pad.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Despite driver engagement being its primary mission, the M4 has a roster of standard and optional driver-assistance technology. For more information about the M4's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:

• Standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
• Standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
• Available adaptive cruise control

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

BMW provides a competitive limited and powertrain warranty that is identical to alternatives from Audi and Mercedes-AMG. It also has better complimentary scheduled maintenance than both brands, but it's not quite as good as what Jaguar provides.

• Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
• Complimentary maintenance is covered for three years or 36,000 miles

More Features and Specs