2017 BMW M4 Review

As you'd probably expect with a high-end two-door such as the M4, there is a lot of standard equipment. For starters, you get the excellent turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine (425 hp, 406 lb-ft); a crisp six-speed manual transmission (a seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic is optional); integrated launch control; automatic rev-matching on downshifts; 18-inch alloy wheels with summer tires; an adaptive sport-tuned suspension (a standard, non-adaptive suspension is a no-cost option); an active locking differential; adaptive xenon headlights; a performance exhaust system with quad tailpipes; exclusive exterior body panels (including a "powerdome" hood and wider rear fenders); power-folding and auto-dimming mirrors; keyless entry and ignition; dual-zone automatic climate control; leather upholstery; power front sport seats with heating; driver-seat memory settings and fold-down rear seatbacks.

In addition to the performance and cabin basics, the M4 has a decent amount of standard tech equipment, including an 8.8-inch touchscreen with BMW's iDrive infotainment interface, a 16-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system, Bluetooth, navigation, a suite of smartphone and online applications under the BMW ConnectedDrive banner, HD radio and satellite radio, a USB audio input and a CD player.

A few key optional packages are available for the M4 as well. New for 2017 is the Competition package, which ups the M4's power rating to 444 hp, adds 20-inch wheels, revised settings for the adaptive suspension, sport exhaust and some interior trim upgrades such as "M" stripes on the seat belts. Separately, the Executive package adds headlight washers, front and rear parking sensors, a head-up display, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, a rearview camera, wireless charging of mobile devices and Wi-Fi hotspot capability. The Lighting package adds adaptive LED headlights and automatic high-beam control. If you want some additional safety equipment, opt for the Driver Assistance Plus package, which gets you blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, a side- and top-view camera system, speed limit info, forward collision warning and automatic braking for collision mitigation.

Other options include 19-inch wheels, carbon-ceramic brakes, automated parallel-parking assist, a power rear sunshade (coupe only) and enhanced smartphone connectivity.

On the coupe, you get your choice of either a visible carbon-fiber-reinforced-plastic (CFRP) roof or a traditional steel roof that includes a sunroof. The M4 convertible has a power-retractable hardtop with a wind blocker, as well as extended leather upholstery and door trim incorporating sun-reflective technology. When equipped with the Executive package, the convertible also includes front-seat neck warmers.