• The first M4 Convertible with M xDrive all-wheel drive.
• 503 hp and 479 lb.-ft of torque. 0 to 60 mph in 3.6 seconds.
• MSRP of $86,300 plus $995 Destination.
• Production to begin in September 2021.

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – May 25, 2021…BMW is proud to announce the third model in the M3 / M4 family – and the first all-wheel drive M4 Convertible to come from M GmbH. Open top motoring, thanks to the new soft-top, adds a new dimension of enjoyment to the already exhilarating performance of the new M4.

The new M4 Competition Convertible with xDrive channels the 503 hp and 479lb.-ft of torque developed by its S58 inline six-cylinder M TwinPower Turbo engine via an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic and the M xDrive all-wheel drive system. The open-top, four-seater M4 promises and delivers an alluring design, luxurious appointments and everyday usability combined with track prowess.

U.S. production begins in September of 2021 with market launch taking place in October.

Panel bow soft-top roof

One of the special features which shape both the exterior design of the new BMW M4 Competition Convertible with xDrive and its driving experience is the new panel bow soft-top.  This design combines the practical benefits of a retractable hardtop with the puristic aesthetic of a fabric roof – the best of both worlds. The panel bow soft-top is some 40 per cent lighter than the predecessor car’s retractable hardtop, effectively lowering the center of gravity of the new M4 Convertible, thus improving its agility. Its smooth surface and insulation provide the new roof with levels of acoustic and thermal comfort far superior to those of a conventional soft-top.

The design of the new soft-top combines large panel bow elements with a flush-fitting glass rear window, several layers of insulation and a fabric cover available in black or in Moonlight black, which gives the fabric a classy metallic shimmer, especially in direct sunlight. When closed, the innovative new roof creates a coupe-like roofline with the classical elegance of a soft-top. The fabric material lies flat on the joint-free arrangement of panel bow elements, meaning that neither their contours nor the soft-top frame is visible when viewing the roof from the outside. The soft-top pulls taut over the passenger cell when closed, which reduces wind noise in the cabin while optimizing the aerodynamic properties of the new BMW M4 Competition Convertible with xDrive.

Opening and closing the roof takes 18 seconds and can be performed at up to 31 mph. The three bow panels fold neatly into a compact Z configuration which can also be performed via the remote key thanks to the standard Comfort Access.

 
The compact dimensions of the folded soft-top increase cargo area to 9.0 cubic feet, an increase of 1.2 cubic feet over the previous M4 Convertible. The top features a safety mechanism which prevents it from being lowered if the trunk area is filled. A pass-through door in the rear seat allows for longer items to be carried inside the car.

Exterior Design

The new M4 Competition Convertible with xDrive is 4.6 inches longer than the model it replaces. The wheelbase has grown by 1.8 inches and its width by 0.7 inches. The new M4 Competition Convertible with xDrive is also 1.4 inches wider than the new 4 Series Convertible.

Powerfully contoured surfaces and M-specific design features – crafted to optimize the supply of cooling air and sharpen aerodynamics – are a hallmark of M car design and the new BMW M4 Competition Convertible with xDrive is no exception. The differentiation between the new M model and the new BMW 4 Series Convertible on which it is based is more striking than in any prior generation. Aside from the doors, soft-top, trunk lid, window surfaces, headlights and rear lights, every part of the exterior is unique to the M model, an exercise in meeting the exacting demands to which a high-performance sports car must rise. “The design is strictly function-led, puristic and uncompromising in its reduction to the essential aspects,” explains Adrian van Hooydonk, Senior Vice President BMW Group Design. “But at the same time, it provides an emotionally powerful expression of the car’s character.”

At the center of the front-end design is the large, black, vertical frameless BMW kidney grille with the traditional M horizontal slats. A honeycomb mesh covers the large, two-section apertures on either side of the BMW kidney grille. These supply cooling air to the brakes and remote coolant radiators.

The lines of the front bumper and hood converge on the BMW kidney grille, as do the contours of the slim full-LED headlights with U-shaped fiber-optic light guides for the daytime driving lights. BMW Individual Shadowline lights, with darkened inlays adorning their upper edges, are also available as an option.

The most striking design feature alongside the prominently flared fenders of the new M4 Competition Convertible with xDrive are the extended side sills. Together with the aerodynamic components of the front and rear bumpers, which also jut out significantly, they form a high-gloss black band around the whole of the car. This functional, racing car-inspired design element, helps to further optimize the aerodynamic balance.

The M gills familiar from past and present cars are integrated neatly into the distinctive surfacing of the front side fenders. The M-specific exterior mirrors have been aerodynamically optimized and are painted in high-gloss black. The diffuser frames the exhaust system’s two pairs of 100 mm tailpipes.

Powertrain

Through constant development work, BMW M GmbH has boosted power in the new M4 Competition Convertible with xDrive by 59 hp and 73 lb-ft of torque over previous Competition package-equipped cars.

The Competition model’s S58 engine produces 503 hp at 6,250 rpm and 479 lb-ft of torque between 2,750 and 5,500 rpm and delivers 0 to 60 mph acceleration time of 3.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 155 mph, or 174 mph, with the optional M Driver’s Package. The engine can rev to a redline of 7,200 rpm.

The rigid closed-deck engine block features wire-arc sprayed cylinder liners to reduce both friction and weight. A forged, lightweight crankshaft reduces rotating mass to improve high rpm characteristics. The cylinder head features a 3D-printed core which allows for optimized coolant passage routing and weight reduction.

Forced induction is provided by two, mono-scroll turbochargers with electronically controlled wastegates and efficient air-to-water intercooling. The quick response of the wastegates allows for quicker turbocharger response and for more efficient function of the catalytic converters which are positioned close to the engine.

The High-Precision Injection system operates at over 5,000 psi, ensuring precise and very fine fuel atomization for not only more efficient power production but also improved emissions. BMW VALVETRONIC variable-valve timing and Double-VANOS variable camshaft timing do their part in the high-revving engines’ smooth and efficient power delivery.

M eight-speed Steptronic transmission and M xDrive  

The greatly increased torque of the M4 Competition Convertible with xDrive means that it is equipped with a standard M Steptronic automatic transmission with Drivelogic. Both automatic and manual modes are offered and can be controlled by the Drivelogic switch on the gear shift lever. Three automatic and three manual modes are available – comfort oriented, sporty and track focused. Each mode features quicker and more intense shifting to match the focus of the driver. Downshifts in automatic mode also feature engine rev-matching. A helpful feature for maximum acceleration in manual mode is the ability to downshift to the lowest gear possible by pulling the left steering wheel mounted-shift lever while simultaneously pressing down on the throttle.

The M xDrive all-wheel-drive system in the new BMW M4 Competition Convertible with xDrive uses an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch in the transfer case to ensure fully variable and super-smooth distribution of the engine torque between the front and rear wheels. The rear-biased system distributes torque between the front and rear axles via an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch. An Active M differential takes care of torque distribution at the rear axle. Torque is directed to the rear wheels during normal driving, providing the classic rear-wheel drive experience. Only when additional traction is required is torque sent to the front axle.

Both the M xDrive and Active M differential are connected directly to the Dynamic Stability Control System ensuring quicker responses in improving agility and controlling both understeer and oversteer.

The M xDrive system offers the drive a choice of three modes: 4WD – the default setting with rear-wheel biased torque distribution focused on traction and precisely controlled handling. 4WD Sport – directs greater percentage of torque to the rear during dynamic driving and is designed to work particularly well on track environments. 2WD – requires DCS to be turned off and affords experienced drivers a pure rear-wheel drive experience without any system intervention.

Chassis

With its long wheelbase, wide front and rear tracks and balanced weight distribution, the BMW M4 Competition Convertible with xDrive boasts the perfect mix of ingredients for performance and comfort. Interlinked bracing increases the body’s longitudinal and torsional stiffness. Installed on all M4 models, this bracing package includes bespoke links connecting the individual spring strut towers with one another and with the front of the car and bulkhead. The aluminum front axle subframe is given extra rigidity by a single piece aluminum shear panel in the integrated sill brace and is connected to the reinforcing elements of the engine compartment by vertical braces. The center and rear sections of the vehicle incorporate model-specific underfloor bracing complete with a crossbar and a special rear axle subframe rigidly connected to the body. The new BMW M4 Competition Convertible with xDrive is additionally equipped with a custom-designed package of torsion struts at the rear of the body.

The M xDrive-specific double-joint spring strut front axle also factors in the specific demands of all-wheel drive and feature specially adapted axle geometry and an individually tuned steering ratio. The axle kinematics, the camber, castor and kingpin angles and the lowered roll center are all designed to maximize lateral dynamic ability while still ensuring ride comfort in everyday driving. Aluminum wishbones with ball joints, an aluminum torque arm with a newly developed mount, a forged swivel bearing with bespoke spring strut clamp and wheel bearings with higher camber stability create an ideal blend of rigidity and lightweight design at the front axle. The five-link rear axle boasts newly developed hubs and wishbones plus retuned bushings.

M Servotronic steering and Adaptive M suspension.

The handling qualities of the BMW M4 Competition Convertible with M xDrive are headlined by precise steering behaviour that remains neutral even at the limit and a linear build-up of lateral forces throughout the full range of lateral acceleration. The modified front-axle kinematics bring about a significant reduction in torque steer. The M Servotronic steering facilitates accurate turn-in when powering through bends on the one hand and effortless parking and maneuvering on the other. It does so by combining the benefits of speed-sensitive power assistance and a variable steering ratio.

The standard Adaptive M suspension with its electronically controlled dampers always deliver optimum road contact for the wheels and tires, with maximum traction while delivering high comfort levels over long distances. The system’s control unit sensors keep a constant eye on body movements, the condition of the road and steering adjustments. Electromagnetically controlled valves respond within milliseconds to generate the required damping force – infinitely variably and for each individual wheel.

Adjustable integrated braking system and ten stages of traction control.

Thanks to the cutting-edge integrated brake system, the brake actuation, braking force assistance and braking control functions are brought together within a compact module. The brake pressure required is produced by an electric actuator. As a result, brake pressure is generated more dynamically and ensures significantly quicker and more precise inputs from the driving stability control system. The integrated braking system allows vehicle deceleration to be adjusted more precisely to the driver’s requirements. And feedback from the brake pedal is unimpaired by wet road surfaces, significant lateral acceleration or high brake temperatures, giving the driver superb brake feel in all situations.

The M-specific version of the integrated braking system presents the driver with two pedal feel settings, COMFORT and SPORT. Both modes alter the amount of pressure on the brake pedal required to slow the car. The driver can therefore choose between more comfort-oriented and particularly direct, instantaneous response when braking. Their preferred mode is selected via the M Setup menu. 

The integrated braking system enables the DSC system to act with greater speed and precision. Its range of functions includes M Dynamic Mode, which allows extra wheel slip at the push of a button to induce an exceptionally sporty driving experience. If the optional M Drive Professional is added, drivers also benefit from the new M Traction Control function. This innovative form of traction control allows the driver to set individual intervention thresholds for wheel slip limitation; they can choose from ten stages of precisely defined slip permitted at the driven wheels.

M forged wheels, performance tires and brakes

The new M4 Competition Convertible with xDrive is equipped forged M light-alloy 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels 275/35ZR19 and 285/30ZR20 non-runflat performance tires.  

The standard M Compound brakes feature front six-piston fixed-caliper brakes with 380 mm discs and rear single-piston floating-calipers with 370 mm disks. The calipers are painted in blue metallic but may be ordered in black or red; all with the M logo.

The optional M Carbon ceramic brakes deliver even stronger braking power with greater fade resistance, enhanced thermal stability and extremely high resistance to wear. Their gold painted calipers are complemented by front 400 mm discs and rear 380 mm disks.

Setup button

The Setup button on the center console provides direct access to the settings options for the seven powertrain and chassis settings. Pressing the button calls up the Setup menu in the Control Display, which lists the currently selected vehicle settings. The driver can now use touch control or the iDrive Controller to activate the desired mode for the engine response, damper settings, steering characteristics and brakes.

EFFICIENT, SPORT and SPORT PLUS settings can be engaged to modify the engine’s characteristics, while selecting the COMFORT, SPORT or SPORT PLUS chassis mode provides access to the three settings for the electronically controlled dampers. The driver can choose between COMFORT and SPORT modes for the M-specific Electric Power Steering and the new braking system. The Gear Shift Assistant can be deactivated via the Setup menu and M Traction Control, part of the optional M Drive Professional, offers ten-stage adjustment of wheel slip control. In the all-wheel-drive Competition models, the driver can also choose from the 4WD, 4WD SPORT and 2WD settings for the M xDrive system, the latter delivering pure rear-wheel drive.

M Mode Button

The M mode button, found on the center console, can be used to adjust the responses and characteristics of the driver assistance systems and the displays in the instrument cluster and optional Head-Up Display to deliver a driving experience suited to the situation at hand. The driver can choose from ROAD and SPORT settings, with TRACK mode additionally available when M Drive Professional is specified. 

In the ROAD setting, all the standard and optional driver assistance systems are fully activated. Pressing the M Mode button engages the SPORT setting, in which the driver assistance systems activated through the driver’s chosen configuration limit themselves to warnings of speed limits and overtaking restrictions, for example. All interventions in the braking and steering systems are suspended in this mode, except for inputs from the Frontal Collision Warning with braking function and the Evasion Assistant. 

In SPORT mode the instrument cluster and optional Head-Up Display switch to M View, which only presents information relevant to sporty driving. The information shown includes an M-specific tachometer and Shift Lights, plus a digital speed read-out and gear indicator.  A range of data including coolant temperature, charge pressure, tire temperature and pressure and lateral and longitudinal acceleration can be displayed in the right- and left-hand areas of the instrument cluster.

In cars with M Drive Professional, drivers can select TRACK mode. Developed exclusively for race circuits, this mode is activated with an extended press of the M Mode button. The driver must then confirm their choice using the iDrive Controller. This setting fully deactivates all the comfort and safety functions of the driver assistance systems. The Control Display is switched off to focus the driver’s attention completely on the track. The instrument cluster and optional Head-Up Display switch to M View mode, with road sign detection and distance information also remaining hidden in the TRACK setting.

M Drive Professional

The optional M Drive Professional, which has been developed specifically for track driving, helps the driver to make consistent progress in pursuit of the ideal line and the perfect lap. Features include the M Drift Analyzer which records the duration, distance covered, line and angle of a drift with a rating shown on the Control Display.

Other functions include the M Laptimer, which provides a comprehensive amount of performance information, shown on both the optional Head-Up display and in the instrument cluster, beyond just recording lap times.  As well as checking their current lap time, the driver can also keep a constant eye on how much quicker or slower they are than their fastest lap of the current session. The Control Display shows the number of laps completed so far, the distance covered and the duration of the driver’s current stint. The driver can also analyze the data recorded during their track outing in detail using the BMW M Laptimer app on their Apple iPhone – and share selected information with the online community. Among the resources available are a bird’s-eye map view of the track, a lap time comparison, data from the car’s sensors such as speed, engine revs and accelerator position, and graphics showing the lateral and longitudinal acceleration values attained. 

Interior Design

Signature M details in the M4 Competition Convertible with xDrive include red accents for the M buttons on the M leather steering wheel and the start/stop button on the center console. The gear selector lever with Drivelogic switch is leather covered with an embedded M logo and stitching in M GmbH colors. It also features an eye-catching cut-out, which is accentuated by integrated “waterfall” lighting. 

Cars with the optional Carbon Fiber interior trim also feature carbon trim for the inlays in the M leather steering wheels and for the shift paddles, which feature a unique design.

Newly developed heated M sport seats and fine-grain Merino leather trim with extended features can be found inside. The M sport seats have pronounced side bolsters, integrated head restraints and an illuminated model badge. M-specific perforation, which enhances the effect of the optional seat ventilation is available for the first time on the M4 Convertible.

A new optional interior highlight are the electric front M Carbon bucket seats. Combining racing functionality with lightweight design and comfort over long distances, the newly developed seats have integrated head restraints and an illuminated model badge. The use of CFRP in the structural of the seat surface and backrest, and cut-outs in the side bolsters and below the head restraints save 21 pounds over the standard M sport seats.

Displays and connectivity

The new M4 Competition Convertible with xDrive features standard BMW Live Cockpit Professional with a fully digital 12.3-inch instrument display and a 10.25-inch digital, high-resolution touch screen center display. The latest iDrive 7.0 operating system includes Navigation with new cloud-based BMW Maps, wireless connectivity for your mobile devices including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto compatibility and BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant and M-specific displays for the instrument cluster and optional Head-Up display.

iDrive 7 allows the driver and passengers to interact with their BMW through voice control, touch screen or via the touch iDrive controller. Control buttons for M Mode, Setup and M Sound are placed within easy reach to the left of the rotary controller.

With the cloud-based navigation system, BMW Maps calculates routes and arrival times with greater speed and accuracy, updates real-time traffic data at short intervals and lets drivers enter any word when searching for a destination

Driver Assistance systems  

The new M4 Competition Convertible with xDrive is equipped with extensive and cutting-edge standard driver assistance systems designed to enhance comfort and safety in both day to day driving and during long journeys. Park Distance Control and Automatic High beam assistant are standard as is Active Protection and the Active Driving Assistant.

The optional Driving Assistance Professional Package includes Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Extended Traffic Jam Assistant for limited access highways, Active Lane Keeping Assistant, Active Blind Spot Detection, Evasion Aid and Emergency Stop Assistant.

The latest generation of the optional BMW Head-Up Display system offers a 70 percent larger projection surface on which M-specific displays such as the multi-color tachometer, the Shift Lights and M View are shown.

The optional Parking Assistance package can identify parking spots to the left or right and steer the car into the parking spot. The Surround View with 3D view gives a top down view of the car and its surroundings which can also be accessed remotely by the BMW ConnectedDrive app. The included BMW Drive Recorder uses the front and rear cameras to record video sequences up to 40 seconds in length with a tap of the iDrive controller or automatically in an event of a crash. The video clips can be exported to a storage device using the USB port.

  Exterior colors

 The 2022 M4 Competition Convertible with xDrive features two non-metallic colors, seven metallic colors and two frozen matt colors to choose from.

• Alpine White
• Sao Paolo Yellow (new)
• Black Sapphire Metallic
• Brooklyn Grey Metallic (new)
• Isle of Man Green Metallic (new)
• Portimao Blue Metallic
• Toronto Red Metallic
• Tanzanite Blue II Metallic
• Individual Dravit Grey Metallic
• Individual Frozen Brilliant White Metallic (new)
• Individual Frozen Portimao Blue Metallic (new)

Interior Upholstery and Trim

A choice of four standard Extended Merino Leather and four optional Full Merino Leather interiors is available.

• Yas Marina Blue / Black Extended Merino Leather
• Silverstone / Black Extended Merino Leather
• Kyalami Orange / Black Extended Merino Leather
• Black Extended Merino Leather
• Yas Marina Blue / Black Full Merino Leather
• Silverstone / Black Full Merino Leather
• Kyalami Orange / Black Full Merino Leather
• Black Full merino Leather

Aluminum Tetragon interior trim is standard.

Carbon Fiber trim or Individual Piano Black Finish trim are optional.

Standard Equipment

• Power folding insulated soft-top.
• 503 hp / 479 lb-ft of torque
• 19-inch / 20-inch Bi-color alloy wheels
• 8-speed M Steptronic automatic transmission
• M xDrive all-wheel drive
• M Sport rear differential
• Adaptive M Suspension
• M Drive modes
• Power, heated front M Sport seats with lumbar support
• Rear view camera
• Ambient interior lighting
• M Seat belts
• Anthracite headliner
• Aluminum Tetragon interior trim
• Park distance control
• Automatic high beams
• Automatic climate control
• Dynamic cruise control
• Extended Shadowline exterior trim
• Tire pressure monitor
• Mobility tire inflator kit
• Alarm system
• Comfort access keyless entry
• Auto dimming exterior and interior mirrors
• Live Cockpit Professional with iDrive 7
• Harman-Kardon surround sound audio
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
• SiriusXM with 360L and 1-year all-access subscription
• Connected Package Pro
• ConnectedDrive Services
• Active Protection
  • Automatic front seat belt tensioning
  • Automatic closing of windows and moonroof
  • Fatigue and Focus Alert
  • Post-crash braking
• Active Driving Assistant
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Speed limit Information
  • Active Blind Spot Detection
  • Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
  • Rear Collision Preparation

Packages and Optional Equipment

Packages include:

• Parking Assistance Package
  • Parking Assistance Package Plus
  • Drive Recorder
• Executive Package
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Power trunk lid
  • Head-Up Display
  • Gesture Control
• Driving Assistance Professional Package
  • Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go
  • Extended Traffic Jam Assistant for limited access highways
  • Active Lane Keeping Assistant
  • Active Blind Spot Protection
  • Evasion Aid
  • Front and rear cross-traffic alert

Stand-alone options include:

• M Drive Professional
• 19-inch / 20-inch forged alloy wheels
• M Carbon Ceramic brakes
• M Compound brakes with red calipers
• M Compound brakes with black calipers
• Competition extended Shadowline trim deletion
• Individual Shadowline lights
• Front ventilated seats
• M Carbon bucket seats
• Carbon Fiber trim
• Individual Piano Black Finish trim
• M Carbon Exterior Package
• M Driver’s Package – Voucher for BMW driver training and increased top speed limiter of 174 mph.

  Specifications

BMW Group in America

BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975.  Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003.  The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand of motor vehicles, including motorcycles, the MINI brand, and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars; Designworks, a strategic design consultancy based in California;  a technology office in Silicon Valley, and various other operations throughout the country.  BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is the BMW Group global center of competence for BMW X models and manufactures the X3, X4, X5, X6 and X7 Sports Activity Vehicles. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 349 BMW passenger car and BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers, 143 BMW motorcycle retailers, 116 MINI passenger car dealers, and 38 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers.  BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group’s sales headquarters for North America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.

www.bmwgroup.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroup

Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupview

Google+: http://googleplus.bmwgroup.com

Journalist note: Information about BMW Group and its products in the USA is available to journalists on-line at www.bmwusanews.com, www.miniusanews.com and www.press.bmwna.com. 

Woodcliff Lake, N.J.: January 13, 2016 6:00 pm EST…The BMW M3 Sedan, M4 Coupe and M4 Convertible are already regarded as the perfect combination of high-performance sports car engineering with unrestricted everyday utility. From spring 2016, all three body styles will be available with a special Competition Package from BMW M GmbH that combines added sporty personality with enhanced dynamics. As well as extensive handling upgrades, the Competition Package also comes with additional equipment features and a hike in power that takes output to 444 hp.

The extra power means improved performance. The BMW M3 Sedan and M4 Coupe with optional 7-speed M Double Clutch Transmission (M-DCT) sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds (without Competition Package: 3.9 sec.), while the BMW M4 Convertible reaches the same speed in 4.1 seconds (without Competition Package: 4.2 sec). The sprint time for models with the standard 6-speed manual transmission is likewise 0.1 seconds faster in all cases than without the package.

The Competition Package includes Adaptive M Suspension, which has been extensively tuned to the enhanced performance and handling, and which features new springs, dampers and anti-roll bars, along with reconfigured driving modes (Comfort, Sport and Sport+). The standard Active M Differential on the rear axle and DSC Dynamic Stability Control have likewise been configured to match the upgraded dynamics. Forged, machine-polished, weight-and rigidity-optimized, multi-spoke 20-inch M alloy wheels (front 9J ×20; rear10 J ×20) with mixed tires sizes (front: 265/30 R20, rear: 285/30 R20) complete the list of chassis upgrades.

For the BMW M3 and BMW M4 Coupe, the Competition Package includes special lightweight M sports seats that combine additional support on the track with exceptional comfort on the street. Seatbelts with woven-in BMW M stripes cap off an extremely sporty interior ambience.

Eye-catching exterior highlights of the Competition Package include the M sports exhaust system with black chrome tailpipes. Even more than its good looks, the most distinctive feature of the M sports exhaust system is its potent sound, which brings added emotional resonance to the driving experience. The starting rumble and the distinctive burble on over run never fail to get under the skin of dedicated drivers time and again.

The Competition Package for the BMW M3 and M4 is topped off by extended BMW Individual high-gloss Shadow Line exterior trim. In additional to the already standard high-gloss Black finish on the the side window trim, window recess finishers and exterior mirror frames and bases, the Competition Package also includes high-gloss Black finish on the BMW kidney grille, the side gills and the model badge on the tail.

The Competition Package will be offered for a retail price of $5,500 on the M3 Sedan and Coupe and the $5,000 on the M4 Convertible.

More Information as well as images and video:

http://www.bmwusanews.com

Twitter.com/BMWUSANews

BMW Group In America

BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003.  The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand of motor vehicles, including motorcycles, the MINI brand, and the Rolls-Royce brand of Motor Cars; Designworks, a strategic design consultancy based in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country.  BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is part of BMW Group’s global manufacturing network and is the exclusive manufacturing plant for all X5 and X3 Sports Activity Vehicles and X6 and X4 Sports Activity Coupes.  The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 339 BMW passenger car and BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers, 153 BMW motorcycle retailers, 124 MINI passenger car dealers, and 36 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers.  BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group’s sales headquarters for North America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.

#     #     #

Journalist note: Information about BMW and its products in the USA is available to journalists on-line at www.bmwusanews.com.

#     #     #

Legendary top-down motoring from BMW M

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – April 3, 2014 6:00pm EDT/3:00pm PDT. . . The all-new BMW M4 Convertible arrives in US showrooms late this summer to join the M4 Coupe and
M3 Sedan. The 2015 BMW M4 Convertible is powered by the same BMW M TwinPower Turbo 3.0-liter inline-six as its siblings. That engine produces 425 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque and can be mated to either a 6-speed manual or 7-speed M-DCT transmission. The new BMW M4 Convertible makes its world debut at the 2014 New York International Auto Show.

The new inline-6 M engine: High-revving, turbocharged unit combines the best of both worlds.

Like the new BMW M3 Sedan and new BMW M4 Coupe, the new M4 Convertible sees a return to an inline-six engine, as used on the second and third generations of this iconic open sports car. The new turbocharged engine combines the best of both worlds – reaching a maximum 7,600 rpm, it is unusually high-revving for a turbocharged engine, resulting in linear power delivery over a wide engine speed range and a soulful engine note, while M TwinPower Turbo technology ensures that peak torque is on tap over a broad rpm range. A further hallmark of this engine is its outstanding efficiency.

The new engine sees a power upgrade over the previous V-8 to 425 hp, which is delivered between 5,500 and 7,300 rpm. Peak torque has been increased by roughly 40 percent to 406 lb-ft, and is maintained over a very wide rev band (1,850–5,500 rpm). The sprint from zero to 60 mph takes the new BMW M4 Convertible just 4.4 seconds with the 6-speed manual. Equipped with the 7-speed M Double Clutch Transmission, this number falls to
4.2 seconds. Top speed is 155 mph (electronically limited).  The BMW M TwinPower Turbo engine hits maximum revs of 7,600 rpm, in keeping with the typically high-revving character of M engines.

The M TwinPower Turbo technology comprises two fast-responding mono-scroll turbochargers, High Precision Direct Injection, Valvetronic variable valve timing and Double-VANOS continuously variable camshaft timing. Valvetronic and Double-VANOS work in tandem to seamlessly control intake valve lift. The result is smooth and efficient power delivery, very sharp response and reduced fuel consumption and emissions.

The six-cylinder engine features a closed-deck crankcase design which is very rigid and allows cylinder pressures to be increased for improved power output. And instead of liners, the cylinder bores feature a twin-wire arc-sprayed coating, which results in a significant reduction in engine weight.

Engine weight is further reduced by the forged, torsionally rigid crankshaft which, as well as saving weight, also provides increased torque-carrying capacity. This significantly reduces rotating masses, resulting in improved throttle response and acceleration.

Innovative technologies delivering top-level performance.
Power transfer in the BMW M4 Convertible is via a standard six-speed manual gearbox. Available as an option is the seven-speed Double Clutch Transmission M-DCT, which allows the driver to change gears not only using the selector lever in the center console but also via the shift paddles on the steering wheel. This transmission effectively combines two gearboxes, each with its own clutch. This means gear changes are executed with no interruption in the flow of power – and the shift processes are therefore shorter. Drivelogic allows the driver to select from different shift modes, which see the M4 Convertible adopting a particularly comfort-oriented, economy-focused or ultra-sporty approach to gear changes when in automatic mode. The Launch Control function also integrated into M-DCT enables optimum acceleration off the line.

The standard Active M Differential optimizes traction at the rear axle. The electromechanical steering system, meanwhile, represents a new development from BMW M GmbH and is the critical component in the link between driver and car. It offers the gifts of direct steering feel and precise feedback. The integrated Servotronic function electronically adjusts the level of steering assistance according to the car’s speed, providing optimum steering characteristics at all speeds. Three steering settings (COMFORT, SPORT and SPORT+) can be selected at the touch of a button to adjust the level of steering assistance to the situation at hand and to the driver’s personal tastes.

The optional Adaptive M suspension likewise comes with COMFORT, SPORT and SPORT+ modes. The BMW M4 Convertible is equipped as standard with M compound brakes, but customers can also order their car with even lighter and more effective M carbon ceramic brakes, which boast the additional visual highlight of gold-painted calipers.

Lightweight design across the board: Shedding weight in all the right places.

As well as outstanding dynamic qualities, intelligent lightweight design also allows the BMW M4 Convertible to claim exemplary efficiency. Its extensive weight-saving measures produce a curb weight of just 4,055 lbs – around 90 pounds less than its predecessor.

Among the key contributors here are the aluminium front fenders and hood, with lightweight aluminium construction also a feature of the chassis. Extensive use is also made of a material that is both lightweight and extremely stiff, and therefore durable: carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP). The new BMW M4 Convertible also features a CFRP drive shaft. The high rigidity and low weight of the CFRP tube mean that the drive shaft can be produced as a single-piece component, without a center bearing. This achieves weight savings of 40 percent over the previous model and a reduction in rotating masses, which in turn results in more dynamic powertrain response.

 The CFRP strut brace in the engine compartment is a further example of how all weight-saving measures on these vehicles have also been tailored to the improvement of driving dynamics. Weighing only 3.3 lbs, the strut brace offers superior rigidity to a comparable aluminum component and at the same time plays a key part in the excellent steering response and precision of both vehicles.

The use of carbon is a reminder that BMW is a global leader in high-strength, lightweight CFRP construction, and that it was BMW who brought out the first mass-production vehicle with a body consisting entirely of this material – the innovative BMW i3.

Design: the powerfully expressive face of BMW M.

Viewed from the front, the BMW M4 Convertible stands out most prominently with its powerful contours and a strongly defined three-dimensionality, which lends it a powerfully expressive face. Characteristic design elements leave no doubt that this car is the work of BMW M. There is the modern take on the twin headlight arrangement (with optional LED technology), for example, not to mention the distinctive twin-bar kidney grille with black painted grille bars – which reflect the design of the characteristic BMW M double-spoke wheels and bear the M logo – and the powerfully designed front apron with its trio of large intakes supplying cooling air to the high-performance engine and brakes. Among the other hallmark BMW M design features on display is the characteristic power dome on the hood, which hints at the potential of the brawny M TwinPower Turbo engine and creates space for the intercooler. And the striking exterior mirrors, with their suggested twin-stalk mounts, optimize the aerodynamics of the new BMW M4 Convertible.

The flanks: low-slung silhouette and dynamic lines.

The profile of the M4 Convertible extends the dynamic impression created by its front end. The hallmark BMW proportions of a long hood, long wheelbase, set-back glasshouse and short front overhang are lent further emphasis by familiar M design elements.

Those dynamics-accentuating details include likewise newly designed M gills, which perform both a stylistic and a functional role. Integrated into them are Air Breathers, which team up with the Air Curtains in the front apron to help optimize the airflow around the wheel arches and therefore improve aerodynamics.

The interior design: flawless ergonomics in a sporting ambience.

Climbing into the BMW M4 Convertible, drivers will be greeted by an interior architecture complete with unimpeachable ergonomics and clear driver focus. In keeping with its character, however, the interior fulfils an even more sharply defined sporting brief. To this end, the host of traditional BMW M equipment details includes M door sill finishers, an M driver’s footrest, M gearshift lever, M-design circular instruments with white graphics, M leather steering wheel with chrome trim, color contrast stitching and electroplated-look shift paddles (if the M-DCT gearbox is specified).

The front seats also represent an evocative expression of BMW M’s motor sport genes. Taking visual inspiration from the bucket seats fitted in racing cars, the seats feature a full-size single-piece back panel. This means the construction of the seats is very flat, while the high, width-adjustable side bolsters and low-set seat surface allow an ideal seating position and provide excellent support. Despite their undeniably sporty design, the BMW M sports seats are equipped with comfort-enhancing features including electric adjustment and heating. On the seat surface, the stitching, upholstery segmentation and perforation lend the seats a slim-fitting feel. Illuminated for the first time, the BMW M logo on the seat backrests adds a new and exclusive highlight.

Interior with exquisite materials and motor sport ambience.

The BMW M4 Convertible stands out with an interior that is exclusive and functional in equal measure. For example, the M Sport leather multifunction steering wheel is standard, as are bucket-style M sports seats. New to this generation of Convertible are the available three-temperature neck warmers that allow for comfortable open-air driving at high speeds and low temperatures.

Drivers of the BMW M4 Convertible can look forward to piloting their car from behind a double-spoke M leather steering wheel. The M logo, chrome trim and color contrast stitching are central elements of the cabin’s racing ambience. The M4 Convertible comes standard with a 6-speed manual gearbox, while the 7-speed M Double Clutch Transmission is available as an option. M-DCT allows the driver to change gears using either the selector lever on the center console or the shift paddles mounted on the steering wheel.

Three-piece retractable hardtop. Form and function.

The BMW M4 Convertible offers outstanding everyday driving qualities and a dynamic design, with the top up or down. These seemingly contradictory qualities were already combined in the BMW M3 Convertible, the predecessor that set standards for premium mid-size convertibles. The hardtop of the BMW M4 Convertible features a number of design improvements that reduce noise levels for a much quieter interior ambience. The sound-absorbing headliner also reduces wind noise by up to 2 dB in comparison to the predecessor model.

When the top is up, the luggage compartment has a volume of 13.0 cu. ft. (370 liters) – that is 0.7 cu. ft. (20 liters) more than available in the BMW M3 Convertible.  All trunk volumes are based on ECE measures. Even bulky items can be transported with the BMW M4 Convertible. A flat and level storage area can be utilized when the backrest of the rear bench seat is folded down. The load-through feature, which is standard in the US, makes even more space available: Either a wide opening between the rear passenger compartment and the trunk, or a smaller opening, for skis for example, when four people are seated in the vehicle. All it takes is the push of a button to transform a dynamic coupe into an elegant, athletic convertible in a mere 20 seconds. The top can also be lowered when the vehicle is travelling at speeds of up to 18 km/h (approx. 11 mph).

The redesigned windblock is standard in the US.  The windblock is now smaller, lighter and easier to use, plus it is more effective than previous variants. When it is not needed, the windblock can be stored behind the rear seat to save space, which is also a new feature. The BMW M4 Convertible also has plenty of space in the trunk, even when the retractable hardtop is lowered. The new convertible offers wider access to the luggage compartment, and an electro-hydraulic loading assistance system raises and positions the folded hardtop in the trunk as needed to ensure maximum utilization of the 7.8 cu. ft. (220 liters) of storage space available.

The loading assistance feature makes sure that there is always ample access to the trunk whether the top is up or down. Two storage compartments on the right and left of the main luggage area are also available for stowing small items when the retractable top is up.

Optional equipment items provide comprehensive driver information.
Needless to say, the BMW M4 Convertible is also available with the wide range of driver assistance systems and mobility services introduced under the BMW ConnectedDrive banner, some of which are already familiar from the BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe. Among the highlights are the new generation of the Navigation System offering extra capability, sharper graphics and 3D elements for the map display, Active Driving Assistant, which warns the driver of a looming collision with a pedestrian or vehicle, the full LED headlights and the intelligent High Beam Assistant.

The optional Head-Up Display comes with additional, M-specific functions such as a gear display, rev counter and Optimum Shift Indicator.

Hall of Fame: Open-top performance for over a quarter century

The new BMW M4 Convertible builds on 26 years of tradition. A Convertible has lined up alongside its two-door Coupe sibling as a firm fixture of the BMW M3 in all four generations.

First generation: the racing car with the soft-top.
The launch of the first BMW M3 in 1986 served primarily to satisfy the homologation requirements for what was then the German Touring Car Championship (DTM). In order to take its place on the grid for this prestigious race series, BMW had to come up with a series-produced version of the competition car and build 5,000 examples of it for sale within a year. The road-spec BMW M3 was created with the demands of motor sport very much at center stage and there were no plans initially for an open-top version. However, after around two years of resistance, BMW eventually gave in to significant customer demand, and the BMW M3 Convertible was unveiled in 1988. It was based on the four-seater BMW 
3 Series Convertible and powered by a four-cylinder engine initially producing 193 hp. In 1990, output was increased to 215 hp, enabling the open-top M3 to accelerate to a top speed of 148 mph – making it the world’s fastest four-seater series-produced convertible at the time. The first generation BMW M3 Convertible was not offered in the US.

Second generation: new advances in safety technology.
The powers that be in BMW’s motor sport department – now rechristened M GmbH – had planned an additional Convertible version of the second-generation BMW M3 (launched in 1992 globally and in 1994 in the US) from the outset. Based on the second generation 3 Series Convertible, the BMW M3 Convertible was launched in 1994 with a raft of innovative safety technology on board. For example, the rollover bars of the standard rollover protection system – positioned behind the rear seat head restraints – would spring up in an instant if the car was in danger of turning over, teaming up with the ultra-rigid windscreen frame to protect the passenger compartment. In the US, the second-generation M3 Convertible was powered initially by a 240-hp 3.0-liter inline-six that was later enlarged to 3.2-liters.

Third generation: shining an even brighter spotlight on the car’s sporting character.
In spring 2001, almost exactly a year after the starting gun had been fired on the third generation of the BMW M3, M GmbH unveiled the Convertible variant to join its Coupe stablemate in the line-up. It was identical to the M3 Coupe up to the A-pillar, but a striking beltline gave the open-top model an even broader, more powerful appearance. The BMW M3 Convertible therefore cut a more muscular, broader, more hunkered-down figure than any BMW M3 before it. And it had the bite to back up the bark; hallmark M attributes such as a 333 hp high-revving naturally-aspirated engine, beautifully tuned M suspension, a variable M differential lock and M high-performance brakes enshrined the BMW M3 Convertible as an elite athlete.

Fourth generation: giving the sporting character an even sharper edge.
Less than a year on from the debut of the fourth-generation BMW M3 Coupe and the four-door Sedan that followed a little later, BMW stirred the fires of anticipation among open-air driving enthusiasts with the launch of the BMW M3 Convertible in spring 2008. A 4.0-liter eight-cylinder engine generating 414 hp – and sustaining around 85 percent of its 295 lb-ft peak torque across a rev range of 6,500 rpm – gave drivers of the drop-top four-seater an impressive armoury with which to sate their appetite for sporty, dynamic corner-chasing and relaxed cruising alike.

The new BMW M4 Convertible

The new 2015 BMW M4 Convertible will arrive in US showrooms in summer 2014, in time to capture ideal top-down weather.

BMW Group In America

BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975.  Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003.  The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand of motor vehicles, including motorcycles, the MINI brand, and the Rolls-Royce brand of Motor Cars; DesignworksUSA, a strategic design consultancy in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country.  BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is part of BMW Group’s global manufacturing network and is the exclusive manufacturing plant for all X5 and X3 Sports Activity Vehicles and X6 Sports Activity Coupes.  The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 339 BMW passenger car and BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers, 139 BMW motorcycle retailers, 119 MINI passenger car dealers, and 35 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers.  BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group’s sales headquarters for North America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.

Information about BMW Group products is available to consumers via the Internet at: www.bmwgroupna.com.

#      #      #

Journalist note: Information about BMW and its products in the USA is available to journalists on-line at www.bmwusanews.com. 

#      #      #