2018 BMW M4 Review
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2018 BMW M4 appraisal values can range from $38,648 - $45,896.
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Edmunds' Expert Review
byCarlos LagoCarlos Lago has worked in the automotive industry since 2008. Along with an extensive background in performance testing and evaluation, he has produced hundreds of car-related articles and videos.
Pros
- Sharp and responsive handling doesn't sacrifice much comfort
- Stout brakes and tires are capable and trustworthy
- A well-finished interior fitted with many standard features
Cons
- Steering is less connected than we'd expect from this class of vehicle
- Engine and exhaust sounds are off-putting
- Competitors offer more powerful and exciting engines
What’s new
Aside from a few changes in options and packages, the 2018 M4 carries over largely unchanged. It gains a standard rearview camera, an updated version of the brand's iDrive infotainment system, and restyled headlights and taillights.
Vehicle overview
The 2018 BMW M4 represents an ideal marriage of sporting capability and luxury in one car. Based on the brand's 4 Series, the M4 receives comprehensive upgrades that make it equally capable of flying along a mountain road, lapping a racetrack or just comfortably commuting to work.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2018 BMW M4 2dr Coupe (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 6M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.09 per gallon for premium unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$248/mo
M4 Base
vs
$193/mo
Avg. Midsize Car
Essentially, the M4 is the hot-rodded version of the 4 Series coupe and convertible. It gets the typical BMW M division treatment, including a significantly more powerful twin-turbo inline six-cylinder engine, stickier tires, bigger brakes and subtly more aggressive styling. The conversion to M status doesn't diminish the 4 Series' luxury quotient either. The ride is compliant enough to drive the M4 and enjoy it daily, the seats are comfortable for a road trip and the interior still boasts attractive materials and logically placed controls. And even though it's a two-door, the M4 has decently roomy rear seats and a useful trunk.
If you're looking for a sports car that's more livable day to day or you want something a little more exciting than the standard luxury coupe or convertible, you'd do well to pick the 2018 BMW M4.
Edmunds' Expert Rating
7.3 / 10The 2018 BMW M4 represents an ideal marriage of sporting capability and luxury in one car. Based on the brand's 4 Series, the M4 receives comprehensive upgrades that make it equally capable of flying along a mountain road, lapping a racetrack or just comfortably commuting to work.
Trim tested
Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our Full Test of the 2015 BMW M4 Coupe (turbo 3.0L inline-6 | 6-speed manual | RWD).
NOTE: Since this test was conducted, the current BMW M4 has received some revisions, including the addition of standard adaptive suspension and an optional Competition package, which increases horsepower. Despite those changes, our findings remain broadly applicable to this year's BMW M4.
Scorecard
| Overall | 7.3 / 10 |
| Driving | 8.0 |
| Comfort | 7.0 |
| Interior | 7.5 |
| Utility | 6.5 |
Driving
8.0The M4 drives a lot like a sports car. It accelerates with potency, turns sharply and stops quickly. There's little reason to crave more performance, though the steering doesn't communicate much road feel to the driver. Still, this is a car that does an impressive number of things very well.
Comfort
7.0Everyday use is no problem for this car. It's properly sporting but totally user-friendly. The ride is supple enough for your commute, and noise will never wear you down. Its seats in particular stand out for their ability to do it all.
Interior
7.5The M4 has a practical driving position and intuitive cabin. Rear-seat access and rear vision are acceptable considering this is a two-door. The interior is easy to live with on a daily basis.
Utility
6.5There's enough space inside this coupe for four passengers, but cabin storage isn't very impressive. There are a few large door pockets, but the center console is shallow and the glovebox tiny. The split backseat, which folds, is nice, and should help with loading a set of golf clubs or skis.
Which M4 does Edmunds recommend?
The 2018 BMW M4 comes in one trim level, so your big choices are whether to choose coupe or convertible and manual or dual-clutch automatic transmission. The manual gives you a level of driver engagement that you don't get with the dual-clutch; the dual-clutch is quicker-shifting and much easier to live with in congested traffic. Beyond that, our top picks on the options list are the Competition package, if only for the amazing-looking 20-inch forged wheels, and the Executive package for its LED headlights and head-up display, among other upgrades.
2018 BMW M4 models
The 2018 BMW M4 is a two-door, four-passenger high-performance car that's based on the company's 4 Series and offered as a coupe or a convertible. We're big fans of the M4's excellent balance of performance and comfort. And while we'd recommend buying a few optional extras, the M4 is going to be a joy to drive every day regardless of how you equip it.