2018 BMW M4

The F82-generation BMW M4 has been on sale since 2014. There have been a few minor changes since its release, but no major overhauls to speak of. Basically, it's a two-door version of the BMW M3 given the M4 designation to fit BMW's current coupe naming scheme. It's powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six making 444 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. Power is fed to the rear wheels through either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed DCT. Our tester is loaded up with a number of options. The $4,750 M Competition Package adds adaptive suspension, 19-inch wheels and black trim on the exterior. Other options include carbon-ceramic brakes, a heads-up display and the dual-clutch transmission. Editor-in-Chief Greg Migliore: I would never buy a car this color, Austin Yellow. Otherwise, I was charmed in many ways by the BMW M4, even if it has some shortcomings. I drove a similarly equipped Audi RS5 the night before and preferred the styling inside and out to the BMW. I also think the Audi's driving experience is a bit better. The M4 felt a touch rougher. At low speeds it was a little uncomfortable with disconcerting gear hunting. To get to the point, I'd rate the RS5 a bit ahead of the M4. A-minus for the Audi, B-plus for the Bimmer. I bet they're comparable on a track. That being said, I'd look long and hard at the M4 if I were in the market for this kind of sports car. BMW's coupes have a dynamic and a presence that is singular and engaging. The steering, which I usually tuned to Sport or Sport Plus, is solid. It's the sharpest of this car's quick reflexes. The M carbon ceramic brakes are tight — be careful — jab them too quickly and you'll be pulled forward in the seat. On the back straight of the M1 Concourse in Michigan, the esses of New York's Monticello or another track that requires strong braking, I bet they'd save my butt. The 3.0-liter TwinPower six feels potent, sounds grumbly and has plenty of firepower. I was less enamored with the double-clutch gearbox, but hey, that's the way the world works these days. The voluptuous styling is well-proportioned and makes a statement. I like the RS5 and Mercedes-AMG C63 a bit more for their aggressive use of angles and chrome. Objectively, those are more interesting designs. Personally, I like the M4. That's my analysis of this segment. The Audi and Mercedes grade out better — but I think I'd put my cash on the M4 base on personal preference. Associate Editor Reese Counts: Every single time I get out of an M3 or M4, I'm left a little cold. Don't get me wrong, they're both fast and capable machines, but they don't get my blood pumping like some other cars in this segment. Nearly everything about it feels a notch below the competition. There are some high points — I like the seats, instrument cluster and the fact …
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