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December 8, 2021
Test drive of the BMW M4: A high-performance model that bridges daily life and the circuit | BMW
BMW M4
Test Drive of the BMW M4: A High-Performance Model Bridging Daily Life and the Circuit
The BMW M4, a high-performance coupe, debuted in October 2020 and was introduced to Japan in January 2021. We test-drove this model, which is said to have the circuit as its main stage.
Text by OGAWA Fumio | Photographs by KAWANO Atsuki
A Car That Will Make Sports Car Enthusiasts Sigh with Envy
For those who see BMW as a luxury brand that delivers driving pleasure, the M4 Coupe is the perfect fit. It's powerful, elegant, and offers high levels of safety and comfort with its driver assistance systems and infotainment. It's a two-door coupe you'll fall in love with at first drive.
The styling is also captivating. Since the announcement of the current 4 Series, the coupe version of the 3 Series, in October 2020, BMW has adopted a strikingly vertical kidney grille. The aggressive appearance perfectly suits the M4.
From the hood bulges that connect to the kidney grille, to the large air inlets of the bumper-integrated air dam, and the air vents on the fender to manage airflow, it's a car that sports car enthusiasts will find breathtakingly cool.
Readers are likely already familiar with the "M" in the car's name. It signifies models developed by BMW M, the division responsible for BMW's motorsport activities and high-performance vehicle development.
"There are two categories of M models: one is the M High Performance Model, designed for track driving, and the other is the M Performance Model, which incorporates technology honed on the track to enhance driving performance."
BMW itself defines them as above. The "M4" announced in Japan in January 2021 is positioned as an M High Performance Model. Indeed, the model I drove this time is the "Competition," a name that evokes racing, with an output of 375 kW (510 hp), making it exceptionally powerful.
With a maximum torque of 625 Nm, simply engaging the D range makes you feel an irresistible urge to surge forward... I sense a distinct intention from the car. The transmission is what BMW calls "Steptronic," which allows for active manual shifting.