Munich. With BMW M Ignite technology, a new engine technology patented by BMW in 2024 is set to enter series production. This new kind of pre-chamber ignition system for petrol engines will debut in the six-cylinder in-line units for the BMW M2, BMW M3 and BMW M4 from mid-2026. One of its standout benefits is a significant reduction in fuel consumption under high loads – during track use, in particular. This new engine innovation has its roots in motor sport, making it another example of the transfer of technology from the race track to the road. And it also plays a major role in meeting the stringent requirements of the Euro 7 standard.

The centrepiece of BMW M Ignite technology is the pre-chamber positioned within the cylinder head. It is connected with the cylinder’s main combustion chamber by overflow openings. The pre-chamber has its own spark plug and ignition coil, meaning the engine has two ignition systems.

At low and medium revs, the conventional spark plug in the main combustion chamber fires before the spark plug in the pre-chamber. But when the engine is operating under higher revs and loads, the pre-chamber ignition takes over the lead role, with part of the fuel-air mixture channelled through the openings into the pre-chamber also ignited there. The flames generated as a result exit the pre-chamber at around the speed of sound.

These ignition jets then ignite the mixture in the main combustion chamber above the piston at multiple points at the same time. The result is a significantly higher combustion speed. Meanwhile, the possible cause of uncontrolled combustion – i.e. “knocking” – is also countered effectively. An additional effect of this technology is a drop in the temperature of the exhaust gas.

Other new technical features alongside the pre-chamber ignition include a higher compression ratio and turbochargers with variable turbine geometry.

BMW M Ignite technology boosts the efficiency of the six-cylinder in-line engines dramatically, especially when the engine is being pushed to its limits. Under high loads, fuel consumption drops substantially. This is particularly beneficial for BMW M customers who drive their cars on race circuits – e.g. during track days: the fuel consumption reduction enabled by BMW M Ignite technology means they can keep lapping for longer on the same amount of fuel.

As well as these efficiency gains, BMW M Ignite technology also helps to meet the new European Euro 7 standard, which will come into force in November 2026. In this way, BMW M is ensuring the high-performance cars fitted with this technology will continue to meet European registration requirements in the future. The new engines therefore represent another instance of technology from racing cars making its way into series-production models.

All variants of the BMW M3 and BMW M4 will come with BMW M Ignite technology from July 2026. Production of the BMW M2 featuring this technology will get underway in August 2026. The displacement and power outputs of all the models with BMW M Ignite technology will be unchanged from those of the corresponding outgoing engines.

To celebrate the 46th birthday of the nine-time motorcycle world champion Valentino Rossi, BMW M GmbH has showcased the BMW M4 CS Edition VR46 (combined fuel consumption: 10.2 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions: 232 g/km acc. WLTP, CO₂ class: G)*. Designers and product experts from BMW M worked closely with the current BMW M works driver to develop the exclusive edition model sporting Rossi’s world-famous number 46. “The Doctor”, or “Il Dottore”, was personally involved in the design process for the two distinctive Sport and Style design variants, each of which is limited to 46 cars. Having adopted “46” from his own father, the exceptional Italian racing driver retained the number throughout his career as it became his trademark and never even swapped it with the #1 of a reigning world champion. Every single BMW M4 CS Edition VR46 rolled off the production line at the BMW Group Plant Dingolfing between February and May – the result of a unique combination of large-scale processes and manual paintwork expertise.

The BMW M4 CS Edition VR46 "Style" and "Sport" variants will be on display at the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este 2025 from 23 to 25 May on the shores of Lake Como.

Tailor-made exclusivity and craftsmanship
The BMW M4 CS Edition VR46 boasts special BMW Individual paint finishes that blend perfectly with the many exposed carbon surfaces. The Sport variant captivates thanks to a finish in Marina Bay Blue metallic with outsized “46” graphics in Tanzanite Blue metallic and bright yellow accents on the BMW M kidney grille, the brake calipers and the forged light-alloy wheels. In the “Style” design variant, the bodywork comes in matte Frozen Tanzanite Blue metallic, with the “46” in Frozen Marina Bay Blue metallic. The carbon-fibre roof of both variants is adorned with the VR46 logo and Rossi’s signature. Both the bonnet and the roof were manufactured and individually painted at BMW Group Plant Landshut. The component plant also provided the lightweight high-precision struts for the engine compartment and engine parts such as the crankcase and the cylinder head, which were installed in the high-performance drive system at BMW Group Plant Steyr.

Special production processes at BMW Group Werk Dingolfing
The production of the BMW M4 CS Edition VR46 reveals the impressive levels of flexibility and skill applied to manufacturing exclusive small-batch series at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing. The Jeff Koons edition models for the BMW 8 Series and the 50 examples of the BMW 3.0 CSL first saw the light of day at the Bavarian plant, where high-tech manufacturing and craftsmanship go hand in hand, in the paint shop in particular.

For the BMW M4 CS Edition VR46, an underlying colour tone was applied as primer before the cars were removed from the series production process. The entire paintwork surface was then sanded down to improve the adhesion of the subsequent paint layers. The paintwork experts in Dingolfing then applied specially-made stencils to mask the “46” and other design elements, such as the bright yellow lines on the rear end and the A-column, before adding the contrast colour to the masking film. Once all the layers of paint had dried and the masking film had been removed, a clear varnish coating was added to the design area by hand and then sanded down – after drying again – to guarantee seamless transitions and a flawless surface. The cars then returned to the regular series production process to receive another layer of clear varnish and for the installation of the carbon-fibre roof that was manufactured in Landshut. Overall, each car required 20 hours’ work from a small team of four hand-picked paint experts to complete the exclusive BMW Individual paint finish on the BMW M4 CS Edition VR46.

Vehicle assembly: components and interior characterised by VR46
The next step in the production process took the edition cars to Dingolfing for assembly. The exclusive design is also reflected in the installed components, such as the bumpers specially painted in Landshut, and on the inside of the car. Night Blue dominates in the interior, with yellow accents. The M Carbon bucket seats have a shoulder area in Sao Paulo Yellow, with yellow contrast stitching and a yellow centre marker on the steering wheel. The headrests and door sill trims feature a prominent yellow VR46 logo, while the carbon-fibre centre console of all examples features a “1/46” badge. Having passed extensive quality controls, the cars of this exclusive edition are now ready for delivery to the two sets of 46 customers around the world.

Includes a “once in a lifetime” experience for customers
Customers who purchase one of the 405 kW/550 HP BMW M4 CS Edition VR46s also enjoy the added value of a “once in a lifetime” experience: an exclusive personal meeting with Valentino Rossi at his home, the VR46 Motor Ranch in Tavullia (ITA), and a BMW M Driving Experience with current BMW M models at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli. Rossi, at the wheel of a BMW M4 GT3, won GT World Challenge Europe Sprint Cup races at his home circuit in both 2023 and 2024 and is aiming to complete a hat-trick this year. “The Doctor” has been a BMW M works driver since the start of the 2023 season, plying his trade at the wheel of a BMW M4 GT3 for BMW M Team WRT, having called time on his motorcycle career at the 2021 season finale and turned his attention solely to car racing. He had already attended multiple tests in Formula 1 race cars and made guest appearances in rallies and endurance races. The Italian has been competing as a BMW M works driver in the GT World Challenge Europe, with the 24 Hours of Spa (BEL) as a highlight, as well as racing in the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans (FRA) or at the Bathurst 12 Hour (AUS), where he celebrated second place in the BMW M4 GT3 at the opening round of this season’s Intercontinental GT Challenge (IGTC).

Creating a legend on two wheels
“Il Dottore” had already become a living legend and global motorsport and style icon on two wheels. With nine world championships and no fewer than 115 Grand Prix victories to his name, he is one of the three most successful motorcycle racers in history. Rossi claimed his first world title in the 125cc class in 1997. Two years later, he added the title in the 250cc class. In 2000, he took the step up to what was the top Grand Prix category, the 500cc class, in which he was crowned world champion in 2001. Rossi remained the dominant force when this category was replaced by the MotoGP class the following year. By 2005 he had added a further four world titles, and numbers eight and nine were to follow in 2008 and 2009. VR46 became a world-famous trademark – and Rossi’s home town of Tavullia even reduced its speed limit from the usual 50 km/h to 46 km/h in his honour.

A BMW celebra o 46.º aniversário de Valentino Rossi com o lançamento do BMW M4 CS VR46 – uma edição limitada que traduz a paixão do lendário piloto pela velocidade, aliando a herança das pistas ao ADN de competição da marca.

Limitado a 92 unidades – oito delas destinadas ao mercado português –, o BMW M4 CS VR46 presta homenagem ao #46. Este número icónico no desporto motorizado, que acompanhou Valentino Rossi ao longo da sua carreira nas duas rodas, agora marca presença no BMW M4 GT3 EVO, com o qual compete no World Endurance Championship e no GT World Challenge.

O modelo está disponível em duas versões: Sport, na cor Azul Tanzanite Frozen, e Style, em Azul Marina Bay. Cada tonalidade contará com 46 unidades, reforçando o caráter exclusivo desta edição.

Inspirado no legado de Valentino Rossi, este modelo exibe detalhes marcantes em Amarelo São Paulo, cor que sempre acompanhou o piloto. Desde a grelha frontal, aos frisos das portas e jantes, as linhas amarelas percorrem o BMW M4 CS VR46. O teto em fibra de carbono exibe o logótipo e a assinatura de Rossi, enquanto os travões, também em amarelo, reforçam a identidade desta edição.

No habitáculo, a singularidade torna-se ainda mais evidente. O Amarelo São Paulo está presente nos detalhes VR46 dos bancos desportivos M, contrastando com o tom especial Azul Night. Nos encostos de cabeça, o logótipo de Valentino Rossi surge iluminado, enquanto na consola central, a numeração exclusiva ‘XX/46’ reforça a autenticidade desta edição limitada.

Sob o capot, o BMW M4 CS VR46 mantém o motor de 3.0 litros biturbo de seis cilindros em linha, que debita 551cv, com um binário máximo de 650 Nm entre as 2750 e as 5950 rpm. Equipado com tração integral M xDrive, ambas as versões aceleram dos 0 aos 100 km/h em apenas 3,4 segundos e atingem uma velocidade máxima de 302 km/h, garantindo uma experiência de condução verdadeiramente emocionante.

Para tornar esta edição ainda mais memorável, a BMW preparou um evento exclusivo para os clientes que adquirirem este modelo especial. No Motor Ranch de Valentino Rossi, em Itália, terão a oportunidade única de celebrar esta parceria num barbecue especial, a convite do próprio piloto. A experiência única terminará na histórica pista de Misano, onde os participantes poderão testar os mais recentes modelos BMW M na BMW M Driving Experience no traçado italiano.

O PVP do BMW M4 CS Edição VR46 é de 260.000€ c/IVA e a produção terá início em maio de 2025.

The #46 is now 46 – and BMW M has the perfect present to mark the birthday of nine-time motorcycle world champion and current BMW M works driver Valentino Rossi (ITA): the BMW M4 CS Edition VR46 (fuel consumption combined: 10.2 l/100 km [27.7 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions combined: 232 g/km in the WLTP cycle, CO₂ class: G)*. This exclusive edition, produced at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing, is available in two distinctive design variants: Sport and Style. “The Doctor” himself was personally involved in the design process for the two versions, both of which will be built in a limited run of 46 cars. The world-famous number, which is Rossi’s trademark, features prominently in several places on and inside the BMW M4 CS Edition VR46 – for example, on the doors and the roof, which is made of carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP).

Purchasing a BMW M4 CS Edition VR46 also comes with a once-in-a-lifetime experience comprising an exclusive, personal meeting with Valentino Rossi at his home – the VR46 Motor Ranch in Tavullia (ITA) – and a BMW M Driving Experience at the Misano race circuit (ITA).

"There is no other brand that has motorsport so deeply rooted in its DNA as BMW M. I am proud to be a BMW M works driver, and to share this passion. The fact that there is now a special VR46 edition, in which I was involved from the very beginning of the design process, makes me proud. When I see the BMW M4  CS Edition VR46 out on the road or on the race track later, it will be very cool,” says Valentino Rossi about the edition and the collaboration with BMW M.

Exclusive BMW Individual paint finishes and special exterior and interior details
One way in which the BMW M4 CS Edition VR46 differs from the BMW M4 CS (fuel consumption combined: 10.2 l/100 km [27.7 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions combined: 232 g/km in the WLTP cycle, CO₂ class: G)* is its two exclusive BMW Individual paint finishes, which blend perfectly with the many exposed carbon surfaces, such as the indents in the bonnet. Other distinctive features include a host of exclusive exterior and interior details. The overall colour concept of the two design versions is inspired by Valentino Rossi’s preferred tones and expressive visual style. For example, the “Sport” has a finish in Marina Bay Blue metallic, while both sides of the car display an outsized “46” in the darker Tanzanite Blue metallic. In the “Style” design variant, the bodywork comes in matt Frozen Tanzanite Blue metallic, with the “46” this time in Frozen Marina Bay Blue metallic on both sides. In a nod to Rossi's favoured colour scheme, the BMW M kidney grille outline and one of the V spokes in the forged M light-alloy wheels – which, as on racing cars, indicates the position of the tyre valve – are painted in bright yellow, as are the brake callipers with M logo and an accent strip over the door frames of the “Sport” variant. The carbon-fibre roof – like the sides of the car, painted by hand – is adorned with a large VR46 logo (also in yellow, of course) and Rossi’s signature. The tailgate features VR46 lettering.

The yellow accents continue in the interior of the BMW M4 CS Edition VR46, which is predominantly Night Blue. The M Carbon bucket seats come with Merino leather upholstery in the Black/Night Blue colour combination. The Sao Paulo Yellow of the Alcantara shoulder area creates an exclusive contrast. The head restraints, like the door sill trims, feature a prominent yellow VR46 logo. Furthermore, the M Alcantara steering wheel with three-spoke design and flat-bottomed rim comes with yellow contrast stitching and a yellow centre marker. On the carbon-fibre centre console of all examples of the Edition VR46 is a badge stating “1/46”, identifying each Sport or Style car as one of the limited run.

Six-cylinder in-line engine with 405 kW/550 hp
The beating heart of the BMW M4 CS Edition VR46 is a high-revving 3.0-litre, six‑cylinder in-line engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology. This power unit has had track performance as its raison d’être from day one of its development. The increase in the maximum charge pressure of the two mono-scroll turbochargers to 2.1 bar and model-specific tweaks to the engine management mean the edition model’s engine now generates 405 kW/550 hp, which is relayed to the road via an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission, the M xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system and the Active M Differential. Lightning-fast power development and optimised traction enable the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds, and from 0 to 200 km/h in 11.1 seconds. When applying the “1-foot rollout” method**, the figures read 3.1 seconds for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h and 10.8 seconds for 0 to 200 km/h. Acceleration from 80 to 120 km/h takes 2.6 seconds in fourth gear and 3.3 seconds in fifth. The top speed of the edition model, which comes with the M Driver’s Package as standard, is electronically limited to 302 km/h.

Contributing to the excellent engine response is a model-specific engine mounting with increased spring rates. The rigid connection between the power unit and the vehicle’s structure enables particularly direct transmission of its power to the drivetrain every time the driver presses the accelerator. The oil supply system – like the cooling system – is designed to handle the specific challenges of track use, including consistently high revs and extreme lateral acceleration. The engine’s power delivery is accompanied by the emotionally stirring soundtrack generated by the dual-branch exhaust system, which features electrically controlled flaps, a titanium rear silencer with weight-minimising design and – in customary M fashion – two pairs of tailpipes painted in matt black.

Model-specific tuning for chassis technology and control systems
The chassis technology for the new BMW M4 CS Edition VR46 has been tuned precisely to the performance characteristics of the engine, the overall vehicle concept and its weight distribution. The individually tuned axle kinematics and bespoke wheel camber settings, dampers, auxiliary springs and anti-roll bars serve to optimise steering precision, transmission of lateral control forces when cornering, spring and damping response, and wheel location. The electronically controlled dampers of the adaptive M suspension likewise come in a model-specific set-up, as do the electromechanical M Servotronic steering with variable ratio, and the integrated braking system.

46 – the trademark of an exceptional racer
The number 46 has accompanied Valentino Rossi throughout his extraordinary career as a motorcycle racer and racing driver, and has become even more of a trademark than his nickname “The Doctor” or “Il Dottore”. Having seen his father Graziano Rossi race motorcycles with number 46, Valentino also opted for 46 from the start of his career – and never even swapped it for number 1 when he became world champion, as would have been his right.

Valentino Rossi claimed his first world title in the 125cc class in 1997. Two years later, he added the title in the 250cc class. In 2000, he took the step up to what was the top Grand Prix category, the 500cc class, in which he was crowned world champion in 2001. The following year, this category was replaced by the MotoGP class, and Rossi remained the dominant force. By 2005 he had added a further four world titles, and numbers eight and nine were to follow in 2008 and 2009. With these nine world championships and no fewer than 115 Grand Prix victories to his name, he is one of the three most successful motorcycle racers in history and a global motor sport and style icon. VR46 has become a worldwide trademark – and Rossi’s home town of Tavullia has even reduced its speed limit from the usual 50 km/h to 46 km/h in his honour.

BMW M works driver since the start of 2023
When the curtain fell on his motorcycle career at the finale to the 2021 season, Valentino Rossi turned his attention solely to car racing, having already attended multiple tests in Formula 1 race cars and made guest appearances in rallies and endurance races. Since the start of the 2023 season, he has been a BMW M works driver, plying his trade at the wheel of a BMW M4 GT3 for BMW M Team WRT in series including the GT World Challenge Europe and the FIA World Endurance Championship (FIA WEC) – which includes the 24 Hours of Le Mans (FRA). At the start of February 2025, he finished runner-up in a BMW M4 GT3 at the Bathurst 12 Hour (AUS), the opening round of this season’s Intercontinental GT Challenge (IGTC).

Exclusive meeting with Valentino Rossi in Italy
An exclusive bonus that comes with purchasing a BMW M4 CS Edition VR46 is the opportunity to enjoy a very special two-day experience in Italy. Day one features a visit to the VR46 Motor Ranch in Tavullia, including a barbecue and a chance to talk shop with Valentino Rossi himself. On day two, you will head to the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli for a special BMW M Driving Experience with the latest BMW M models. Rossi, at the wheel of a BMW M4 GT3, won GT World Challenge Europe Sprint Cup races at his home circuit in both 2023 and 2024.

*Consumption and emission figures:
(fuel consumption combined: 10.2 l/100 km [27.7 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions combined: 232 g/km in the WLTP cycle, CO₂ class: G)

** Value with “rollout” subtracted. With this alternative measuring method, time measurement only begins after leaving a light barrier. The distance not taken into account in the measurement (the “rollout”) is 1 foot = 30.48 cm.

The data on fuel consumption, CO₂ emissions, power consumption and range refer to vehicles on the automotive market in Germany. All figures have already been calculated based on the new WLTP test cycle. Consumption and emission data refer to the German Passenger Car Energy Labelling Regulation (EnVKV).

The new BMW M4 CS invites owners to experience the inimitable M feeling in all its depth and breadth. Its distinctive character profile places it exactly midway between the new BMW M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive (fuel consumption, combined 10.1 – 10.0 l/100 km [28.0 – 28.3 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions, combined: 229 – 226 g/km in the WLTP cycle, CO₂ class: G) – complete with its recently introduced performance, design and equipment upgrades – and the 1,000-unit limited-run BMW M4 CSL special edition (fuel consumption, combined 10.1 – 9.9 l/100 km [28.0 – 28.5 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions, combined: 227 – 224 g/km in the WLTP cycle, CO₂ class: G). The pure-bred performance talents of the new BMW M4 CS are the product of M-typical racing genes, which offer constant reminders of their presence in everyday driving on the road and enjoy full expression out on the track.

The model-specific performance characteristics of the six-cylinder in-line engine in the BMW M4 CS, an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission and M xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive imbue the new special edition with dynamic poise and assurance in any situation. Instantaneous power delivery and optimised traction enable acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.4 seconds. In testing at the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife circuit – the ultimate barometer for all BMW M cars when it comes to the signature M recipe of dynamic potency, agility and handling precision – the new BMW M4 CS recorded an official and notarised time of 7 min. 21.989 sec. for the full 20.832-kilometre (12.943-mile) lap.

Six-cylinder in-line engine developed for motor sport .

The race-focused character of the new BMW M4 CS is immediately recognisable and a noticeable companion over every journey. The special edition is powered by a particularly muscular version of the high-revving six-cylinder in-line engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology developed for the BMW M3/BMW M4 range. The 3.0-litre unit has had track performance as its raison d’être from day one of its development. Indeed, it also provides the basis for the engine in the BMW M4 GT3, which won the DTM touring car title in 2022 at the first time of asking and followed that up in 2023 with overall victories at the 24-hour races in Spa-Francorchamps and Dubai.

The engine in the new BMW M4 CS therefore also benefits from the development expertise of BMW M GmbH and the many years of racing experience that underpin it. The engine has an extremely rigid crankcase, which features a sleeve-free, closed-deck construction and is designed to handle very high combustion pressure. The forged lightweight crankshaft also displays exceptional torsional resistance, which plays a role in giving the engine its rapid power delivery and appetite for revs. The wire-arc sprayed iron coating of the likewise weight-saving cylinder bores reduces frictional losses. The cylinder head, meanwhile, has a 3D-printed core. This additive manufacturing process allows the coolant ducts to be routed in an optimum arrangement for temperature management that would be impossible to achieve using conventional metal casting methods. And the system of oil supply – like the cooling system – is designed to handle the specific challenges of track use, including consistently high revs and extreme lateral acceleration.

Bespoke performance characteristics, distinctive sound.

Racing technology provides the foundations for the extraordinary potential of the six-cylinder in-line engine, which produces maximum output of 405 kW/550 hp from under the bonnet of the new BMW M4 CS. This represents a 15 kW/20 hp increase over the figures achieved by the engine in the BMW M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive. The power boost was achieved through targeted revisions to the engine’s M TwinPower Turbo technology and required no concessions in terms of stability or durability. The adjustments primarily involved raising the maximum charge pressure of the two mono-scroll turbochargers to 2.1 bar and making some model-specific tweaks to the engine management.

The upgrades also produce a very specific take on familiar M performance characteristics, with instantaneous power delivery that continues unabated through to the upper echelons of the rev range a particularly dominant theme. The engine in the new BMW M4 CS puts its peak torque of 650 Nm (479 lb-ft) on tap from just 2,750 rpm up to 5,950 rpm. It develops maximum output at 6,250 rpm and has a 7,200 rpm red line. Contributing to the excellent engine response is a model-specific engine mounting with increased spring rates. The rigid connection between the power unit and the vehicle’s structure enables particularly direct transmission of its power to the drivetrain every time the driver presses the accelerator.

The instantly available power and high-revving character of the engine pave the way for imposing acceleration figures. The new BMW M4 CS dashes from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 3.4 seconds, while 0 to 200 km/h (124 mph) takes 11.1 seconds. The mid-range sprint from 80 to 120 km/h (50 – 75 mph) is dealt with in 2.6 seconds in 4th gear and in 3.3 seconds in 5th gear. The top speed of the special edition – which comes as standard with the M Driver’s Package – is electronically limited to 302 km/h (188 mph).

The engine’s power delivery is accompanied by the emotionally stirring soundtrack generated by the dual-branch exhaust system, which features electrically controlled flaps, a titanium rear silencer with weight-minimising design and – in customary M fashion – two pairs of tailpipes painted in matt Black. The engine’s acoustic presence adjusts to the powertrain setting selected via the M Setup menu. In SPORT and SPORT+ modes, the engine note gains unmissable racing car undertones. This injects genuine aural drama into proceedings, particularly during gear changes and the accompanying adjustments in rev speed.

Eight-speed M Steptronic transmission, M xDrive and active M differential convert outstanding power into imposing performance.

The engine’s drive torque is relayed to all four wheels of the new BMW M4 CS via an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic. This is operated using either the M-specific gear selector lever on the centre console or the carbon-fibre shift paddles on the steering wheel. The Drivelogic button integrated into the selector lever allows the driver to alter the transmission’s shift characteristics as desired, with a choice of settings available: one comfort-oriented, one for sports performance and one optimised specifically for track use.

The engine’s power is channelled onto the road by the M xDrive system. This intelligent all-wheel-drive technology uses an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch in the transfer case to distribute the engine’s power smoothly between the front and rear wheels – and so maximise traction, agility and directional stability in any situation. The multi-plate clutch’s oil supply has been optimised to ensure the all-wheel-drive system continues to perform effectively even during ultra-intense track sessions.

The M xDrive system’s rear-wheel bias and the way it teams up with the Active M Differential at the rear axle – whose operation is also fully variable – add to the signature M feeling when accelerating or powering through corners. Furthermore, the M Setup menu allows 4WD Sport mode to be selected, which directs an even greater proportion of the engine’s torque to the rear wheels. Drivers can also switch off the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system altogether and engage pure rear-wheel drive via 2WD mode. This engages skilled drivers in the driving experience to an even more intense degree.

Model-specific tuning for the chassis technology and control systems.

The chassis technology for the new BMW M4 CS has been tuned precisely to the performance characteristics of the engine, the overall vehicle concept and its weight distribution. The individually tuned axle kinematics and bespoke wheel camber settings, dampers, auxiliary springs and anti-roll bars serve to optimise steering precision, transmission of lateral control forces when cornering, spring and damping response and wheel location.

The electronically controlled dampers of the adaptive M suspension on the new BMW M4 CS likewise come in a model-specific setup, as do its electromechanical M Servotronic steering with variable ratio and its integrated braking system. The settings for the DSC system and M Dynamic Mode have also been purposefully geared to the specific demands of dynamic circuit driving. M Dynamic Mode gives drivers extra leeway to explore the car’s dynamic limits by pushing back the intervention points for the DSC system’s various stabilising measures. When the driver adopts an extremely sporty driving style, the resultant wheel slip ensures even better power transmission and helps to propel the car down the road with extra assurance.

Exclusive forged light-alloy wheels and track tyres fitted as standard.

The special-edition model is equipped as standard with M Compound brakes with callipers painted in a choice of Red or Black. The callipers for the optional M Carbon ceramic brakes can be specified in a Red or matt Gold painted finish. The new BMW M4 CS also comes as standard with forged M light-alloy wheels in an exclusive V-spoke design – available in either in matt Gold Bronze or matt Black.

The lightweight wheels (19-inch at the front axle and 20-inch at the rear) are fitted as standard with track tyres (ultra track tyres as option) to maximise the performance experience on the race track. Offering outstanding lateral control and directional stability, precise steering feel and optimum traction, these track tyres – in the dimensions 275/35 ZR19 (front) and 285/30 ZR20 (rear) – represent a compelling proposition, even when the driver is living out their sporting ambitions on a circuit. Customers intending to use their BMW M4 CS mostly for day-to-day driving can select high-performance tyres in the same sizes as a no-cost option.

Intensive application of lightweight design with generous use of CFRP.

Extensive lightweight design measures play a major part in moulding the performance qualities and exclusive character of the new BMW M4 CS. The use of components made from carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) is of key importance here. The carbon-fibre roof is a prime example, its low weight bringing the car’s centre of gravity closer to the road and therefore enhancing agility and cornering dynamics. The bonnet, front splitter, front air intakes, exterior mirror caps, rear diffuser and Gurney-style rear spoiler are also made from this lightweight, high-tech material.

Adherence to the principle of intelligent lightweight design is also evident in the interior. Indeed, in the interests of reducing weight inside the cockpit, the centre console, shift paddles on the steering wheel and interior trim elements are all made from CFRP. The special-edition model also comes as standard with M Carbon bucket seats, whose weight-minimising construction is highlighted by the use of CFRP in the structural elements of the seat cushion and backrest as well as in the eye-catching cut-outs in the side bolsters and below the head restraints. Added to which, the exhaust system on the new BMW M4 CS is more than four kilograms lighter, thanks to the use of a titanium rear silencer. All in all, lightweight design measures bring the car’s weight down by around 20 kilograms compared to the BMW M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive.

Optional M front end strut brace maximises torsional rigidity.

An M front end strut brace – also engineered for lightness – can be specified as an option for the BMW M4 CS to increase torsional rigidity and improve handling through dynamically taken corners. The cast aluminium elements connecting the spring strut towers to the front end feature a weight-optimised geometry that has been precisely matched – with the help of numerical models – to the forces applied in various driving situations.

Exclusive design features promise thrilling performance.

The new BMW M4 CS instantly announces its sharper character with a series of individual design features. The new BMW Individual special paint finishes Riviera Blue and Frozen Isle of Man Green Metallic are available exclusively for the latest special-edition model from BMW M GmbH. Surfaces in exposed carbon fibre for the roof and the pair of indents chiselled into the bonnet showcase the material’s distinctive structure, as do the front splitter, front air intakes, M exterior mirror caps, rear spoiler and rear apron. Together with the Black side skirts and M gills, the CFRP elements provide a stunning contrast against the bold new paint finishes. The new BMW M4 CS can also be specified in the exterior shades M Brooklyn Grey metallic and Sapphire Black metallic.

The vehicle’s front end sports a weight-saving, frameless BMW kidney grille with a stripped-back feel reminiscent of racing machines. Designed especially for this model, its identifying features include red contour lines and the “M4 CS” badging on the upper of the two horizontal grille bars. Both the model badge at the front and its counterpart on the boot lid have black surfaces with a red border.

Eye-catching headlights add another flourish to the front end of the new BMW M4 CS. Their sculptural light icons illuminate yellow instead of white – both during the Welcome Light Animation and while low beam or high beam is switched on – and so reference successful GT racing cars. The rear lights of the BMW M4 CS make a visually powerful statement with their striking appearance during the hours of darkness. As well as generating a powerful radiance, their Laserlight technology is also marked out by intricate fibre optic bundles inside the light units, which have a “free-floating” appearance and are illuminated by a laser diode. The result is a prominent 3D effect. This technology was first seen in the BMW M4 CSL high-performance special edition produced in a limited run of 1,000 units, and now also brings an exclusive aesthetic to the BMW M4 CS.

Racing flair in the cockpit: M Carbon bucket seats with exclusive design cues.

Exuding a puristic visual appeal, the cockpit of the BMW M4 CS focuses squarely on delivering an exhilarating driving experience, while also successfully blending its distinct racing aura with comfort features for everyday driving – thanks to high-quality materials and exclusive design elements. The standard M Alcantara steering wheel in three-spoke design with a flat-bottomed rim offers a perfect combination of secure grip for dynamic driving manoeuvres and impressive comfort on longer journeys. Its red centre marker and CFRP shift paddles add an authentic racing flavour to the cockpit. The standard M Carbon bucket seats in a model-specific design also fuse racing-car feel and long-distance comfort to exceptional effect. Fully electric and heated, they feature integral head restraints and an illuminated model badge.

The M Carbon bucket seats in the BMW M4 CS are upholstered in Merino leather and come in an exclusive design with a Black/Red colour scheme and distinctive contrast stitching. This bi-colour finish is carried over into the rear compartment of the high-performance sports car. Both the door panels in the front and the rear side panelling are trimmed entirely in Black leather. Red “CS” lettering on the centre console, M seat belts with contrast stitching in the BMW M GmbH colours, an Anthracite-coloured headliner, interior trim strips in Carbon Fibre finish and door sill plates with the inscription “M4 CS” all add to the exclusive ambience inside the car.

BMW Curved Display with M-specific readouts, new BMW iDrive.

The latest version of the BMW iDrive display and control/operation system based on BMW Operating System 8.5 provides intuitive control of numerous vehicle functions and digital services. The BMW Curved Display features M-specific readouts and is angled towards the driver, helping them to focus on the road ahead. The fully digital screen grouping is formed by a 12.3-inch information display behind the steering wheel and a control display with a screen diagonal of 14.9 inches. The familiar M Shift Lights appear at the top of the information display, while the driving stability system, M xDrive and traction control modes are all indicated in the lower area. Special widgets containing information on the current vehicle setup, as well as tyre pressures and temperature can be added to the control display’s home screen.

The upgraded BMW iDrive also comprises the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant and has been designed with particular emphasis on touch and voice control. Besides the M-specific graphics, the system also now features a new way of operating the automatic climate control: the temperature and ventilation settings as well as the seat heating can be controlled either by touch using a special menu option in the lower area of the control display or by voice command.

Setup button for customising vehicle configuration, M Drive Professional with M Drift Analyser and M Laptimer as standard.

The M-specific Setup button on the centre console enables direct access to the settings options for the engine, chassis, steering, braking system and M xDrive. Two individually configurable setup variants can be stored permanently, together with the preferred settings for the engine note, the DSC system, the Automatic Start/Stop function and the shift characteristics of the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission, and then retrieved using one of the two M buttons on the steering wheel.

Also fitted as standard in the new BMW M4 CS is the M Drive Professional system. This includes track-optimised functions such as the M Drift Analyser, which evaluates and records purposefully executed cornering slides, and the M Laptimer, which provides detailed data on laps of the track and allows sporty-minded drivers to share their exploits with the community. It additionally comes with M Traction Control, whose ten stages also play their part in helping drivers enjoy the pleasure of driving the car enthusiastically on the track.

The M Mode button on the centre console is another tool in the M Drive Professional package and can be used to adjust both driver assistance system responses and the content shown in the information display and Head-Up Display. As well as the ROAD and SPORT settings, the BMW M4 CS also offers a TRACK mode designed exclusively for use on race circuits.

Top-class options for added pleasure and comfort in everyday driving.

The specification of the standard BMW Live Cockpit Professional includes the BMW Head-Up Display with M-specific graphics, the cloud-based BMW Maps navigation system, smartphone integration, telephony with wireless charging and a WiFi interface. The BMW Drive Recorder is available as an option.

The new BMW M4 CS additionally offers customers a select choice of comfort features and driver assistance systems, with the focus firmly on the enjoyment of unadulterated driving pleasure. Comfort Access, an alarm system, two-zone automatic climate control, the Harman Kardon Surround Sound System, Park Distance Control, the Parking Assistant, Front Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning and the Speed Limit Info system are all included as standard, while automatic boot lid operation and the Driving Assistant system can be added as options.

Munich. With a new season in motor sport just around the corner,the collaboration between BMW M Motorsport and toymaker LEGO^® has produced a new Speed Champions set that is destined to capture the imagination. The new arrival will fuel excitement among younger motor sport fans from nine years of age, as well as laying on an authentic build-and-play experience for more mature collectors. With 676 pieces in total, this detailed set enables builders to recreate not one but two current competition racing cars from BMW M Motorsport: the BMW M Hybrid V8 and the BMW M4 GT3. These two racers will front BMW M Motorsport’s bid for glory at events including the 24 Hours of Le Mans on 15/16 June 2024.

The new miniature members of the Speed Champions series stand out as carefully constructed replicas of the original cars. Authentic design features include the characteristic BMW M Motorsport paintwork, prominent diffuser elements, visually striking exhaust tailpipes and eye-catching spoilers, as well as an interior crafted with fine attention to detail. Plus, the roofs of the two miniatures can be taken off to allow the racing driver figures supplied as part of the set to be inserted into their respective cockpits. The stage is set for thrilling wheel-to-wheel racing in kids’ bedrooms far and wide.

Detailed replicas for racing fans young and old.

Driven by the vision of reproducing iconic racing cars with LEGO^® bricks, the LEGO^® Speed Champions series has been bringing smiles to the faces of car fans and collectors of all ages for almost ten years now. The new model set bringing together the BMW M Hybrid V8 and BMW M4 GT3 fits in with this tradition and enables additional target groups to experience the allure of motor sport and the engineering expertise of BMW M.

The latest addition to the LEGO^® Speed Champions series will stir the racing passion of its builders as they go about constructing the cars. Once finished, these two exceptionally beguiling models will enrich both collectors’ display cases and starting grids for exciting bedroom races. The BMW M Hybrid V8 / BMW M4 GT3 set will go on sale on 4 March 2024 at a recommended retail price of €49.99. It can be purchased from BMW dealers in the European Union, the UK and from the BMW online shop lifestyle.bmw.com and from LEGO^®.

BMW M Motorsport: back on the big stage.

BMW M Motorsport is celebrating a long-awaited comeback to international prototype racing with the BMW M Hybrid V8. The electrified V8 racer passed its first test of strength last season in the prestigious GTP category of the IMSA series, and this year it will also compete in the FIA World Endurance Championship (FIA WEC). Exactly 25 years on from the BMW V12 LMR famously claiming overall victory at Le Mans, the launch of the BMW M Hybrid V8 at the legendary endurance classic opens a new chapter in the BMW brand’s prototype racing history.

BMW M Team WRT is also entering the BMW M4 GT3 in the FIA WEC races over the upcoming season. This means BMW M Motorsport will also be represented in another class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans: While the two BMW M Hybrid V8 cars will do battle in the hypercar category at Le Mans, a pair of BMW M4 GT3 racers will line up in the LMGT3 class.

In the event of enquiries please contact:

Corporate Communications

Cypselus von Frankenberg, Product Communication BMW Automobiles

Telephone: +49-89-382-30641

E-mail: Cypselus.von-Frankenberg@bmw.de

Alexandra Landers, Head of Product and Brand Communication BMW

Telephone: +49-89-382-30871

E-mail: Alexandra.Landers@bmw.de

Internet: https://newsroom.bmwgroup.com/global/en

E-mail: presse@bmw.de

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2022, the BMW Group sold nearly 2.4 million passenger vehicles and more than 202,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2022 was € 23.5 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.6 billion. As of 31 December 2022, the BMW Group had a workforce of 149,475 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products. 

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The straight six-cylinder engine featuring M TwinPower Turbo Technology will in future be available in three performance levels. Still unparalleled in the competitive environment is the combination of the 353 kW/480 hp variant of the power unit with a 6-speed manual transmission in the new BMW M4 Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 10.1 – 10.0 l/ 100 km; CO₂ emissions combined: 230 – 226 g/km according to WLTP). The power plant in the new BMW M4 Competition Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 9.9 – 9.7 l/ 100 km; CO₂ emissions combined: 223 – 219 g/km according to WLTP) delivers a maximum power output of 375 kW/510 hp, transferring power to the road via an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic. In combination with M xDrive featured in the four-wheel drive variants of both the Coupé and Convertible, this transmission guarantees extremely superior transformation of power output – now increased to 390 kW/530 hp – into exhilarating driving dynamics.

Thanks to the current modifications, the high-performance automobiles of the premium midsize segment all have the ideal prerequisites for the continuation of their popularity on international automobile markets, whilst strengthening their leading position within the segment. The USA has become the major sales market for the BMW M4 Coupé, followed by China, Germany and the UK. In the USA, the BMW M4 Convertible accounts by far for the highest sales figures. Moreover, the open-top four-seater enjoys great popularity in Germany and the UK. Both globally and in each of their relevant markets, models of the BMW M4 Series occupy by a clear margin the position as market leaders in each of their respective competitive environments.

The new editions of the BMW M4 Coupé and the BMW M4 Convertible are produced at the BMW Group Dingolfing plant. The worldwide market launch of the new models will begin with the commencement of production in March 2024.

Bespoke vehicles, M-typical performance.

Uncompromising dynamics both in everyday driving and on the racetrack are characteristic of BMW M4 Series models, this also being reflected in their design. Powerful proportions and M-specific design features for optimising the cooling air supply and the aerodynamic balance underpin their status as high-performance sports cars. The large, vertical BMW kidney grille sporting M-typical and horizontally arranged double slats, powerfully modelled wheel arches and prominently flared side sills with a contrasting high-gloss black finish as well as attachments for the front and rear aprons provide clear reference to the dynamic potential of both the Coupé and the Convertible.

Furthermore, the various model variants present themselves as bespoke vehicles, each of them enhancing the extreme sporty driving experience with their very own special facets. For example, a carbon reinforced plastic (CRP) roof is standard on all variants of the BMW M4 Coupé. The BMW M4 Competition Convertible with M xDrive offers a particularly unique opportunity to enjoy M-typical performance along with an extraordinary open-air driving experience. The car’s sophisticated panel bow soft-top roof combines the benefits of a retractable hardtop with the look of a classic fabric roof. The electric drive mechanism allows it to be opened or closed while on the move.

Straight six-cylinder engine with motor racing technology and new performance specification.

The straight six-cylinder power units used in the new BMW M4 Coupé and the new BMW M4 Convertible combine the typical high-revving characteristics offered by engines from BMW M GmbH with the current version of M TwinPower Turbo Technology. All variants of the 3-litre engine impress with responsive power delivery and high-torque characteristics up into the highest load ranges. These attributes are responsible for those unmistakable, linear performance characteristics, which have always been the hallmark of BMW M automobiles.

The engine‘s design features directly derive from motor racing and include the extremely stiff crankcase, which is manufactured in a sleeveless closed-deck design, the weight-reduced forged crankshaft and the iron coating, which is applied to the cylinder liners in an arc wire spraying process (AWSP). Manufactured in a 3-D printing process, the cylinder head core features an optimised routing of the coolant ducts, something that cannot be realised using conventional metal casting technology. In this way, both weight and temperature management are optimised. Like the cooling system, the oil supply is also aligned to the special demands of racetrack use.

M TwinPower Turbo Technology comprises two mono scroll turbochargers, each of them supplying three cylinders with compressed air. Indirect intercooling facilitated by a low-temperature circuit and specific compressors optimise the power output of the charging unit. Moreover, the technology package includes the petrol injection system High Precision Injection operating at a maximum pressure of 350 bar, variable valve control VALVETRONIC and infinitely variable camshaft control Double VANOS.

Maximum power output of the straight six-cylinder power unit variant featured in both the new BMW M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive and the new BMW M4 Competition Convertible with M xDrive has been increased from the previous 375 kW/510 hp to 390 kW/530 hp, this being reached at an engine speed of 6,250 rpm. The further developed engine retrieves maximum torque of 650 Nm within an extended engine speed range of between 2,750 and 5,730 rpm. This results in even more superior and continuous power delivery, thus further enhancing the performance experience above all in highly dynamic driving situations. This exclusive performance specification is realised through a modification of the engine control system, providing further proof of the outstanding potential of the straight six-cylinder engine developed by BMW M GmbH and which serves as the basis for the power plant featured in the BMW M4 GT3 long-distance vehicle.

Whilst the new BMW M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive is able to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 3.5 seconds, the new BMW M4 Competition Convertible with M xDrive takes 3.7 seconds to reach the same speed from a standstill. All model variants of the new BMW M4 Coupé and the BMW M4 Convertible achieve a top speed that is electronically limited to 155 mph. This value can be increased to 174 mph with the optional M Driver’s Package (BMW M4 Competition Convertible with M xDrive) or 180 mph respectively.

Honed on the Nürburgring: M-typical overall package comprising engine, power transmission and suspension technology. 

Like the 8-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic fitted to all other model variants, the 6-speed manual transmission in the new BMW M4 Coupé is perfectly matched to the performance characteristics of each engine. Shift paddles on the steering wheel for spontaneous manual intervention at each selected driving speed and the Drivelogic button for variable shift characteristics pave the way for a driving experience that is customisable in a variety of ways.

In addition, the most powerful version of the straight six-cylinder engine is combined with intelligent four-wheel drive M xDrive. This gives the new BMW M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive and the new BMW M4 Competition Convertible with M xDrive outstanding traction, an attribute that is expressed in their impressive acceleration values. Thanks to a rear-wheel biased system and in conjunction with a fully variable Active M differential in the rear wheel transmission, the M xDrive system also enhances that typical M feeling during dynamic cornering. Via the set-up menu the driver is able to select, in addition to the default setting 4WD, the 4WD Sport mode, in which greater percentage of torque is directed to the rear axle. Moreover, when DSC is deactivated, the 2WD mode becomes available for exclusive transmission of power to the rear wheels.

High torsional stiffness of the body structure and the suspension connections create the ideal prerequisites for inspiring agility and spontaneous response to steering commands. Model-specific body struts also help the high-performance model provide that BMW M typical combination of dynamic, agile and precise handling.

M-specific kinematics and elasto-kinematics of the double-joint spring strut front axle and the five-link rear axle guarantee the harmony between extreme driving dynamics and balanced comfort features on all models of the series, both in everyday use and on longer journeys. Three characteristic maps are available via the M Setup menu for individual adjustments of the Adaptive M suspension, which comes as standard. Further components of the suspension technology include M Servotronic steering and the integrated braking system, which is utilised in conjunction both with the standard M compound brakes and the optional M carbon-ceramic brakes.

The integrated application of all drive and suspension systems, which was tested, inter alia, on the northern loop of the Nürburgring, guarantees, also in everyday traffic, highly dynamic and precisely controllable handling. A form of driving pleasure that is unique within the competitive environment is provided by the stability control system DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), which in addition to the M Dynamic Mode comprises ten-stage adjustable wheel slip limitation. By means of the M Traction Control function, optionally available for the BMW M4 Coupé and standard on all Competition models, the driver is able to reduce system interventions in stages in order to cautiously approach the physical limits of driving when the car is used on the racetrack, for instance. The M Lap Timer and the M Drift Analyser provide functions that emphasise the character of these high-performance models as ultimate driving machines for use on closed-off roads.

Wheel sizes aligned to each axle, M forged light-alloy wheels boasting a new design.

Axle-specificwheel sizes ensure a particularly comprehensive transfer of lateral forces during dynamic cornering. The new BMW M4 Coupé and the new BMW M4 Competition Coupé both come as standard with 18-inch M forged light-alloy wheels at the front and 19” at the rear. The standard configuration of the BMW M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive and the BMW M4 Competition Convertible with M xDrive comprises M forged light alloys of the size 19” at the front and 20” at the rear.

The combination of 19” and 20” M light alloys is also optionally available for the new BMW M4 Coupé and the new BMW M4 Competition Coupé. New to the range of special equipment for all model variants are M forged light-alloy wheels in the above sizes featuring a double-spoke design and, for the first time, with a silver finish. Their brightly shining surfaces provide for a sporty, sophisticated and elegant look.

Assistance systems with a configurable range of functions.

The ongoing further development of the range of systems for automated driving and parking also contribute towards an unmistakable driving experience. In terms of functional scope and availability they set benchmarks within the competitive environment of the new BMW M4 Coupé and the new BMW M4 Convertible. Moreover, the activities of the driver assistance systems can be controlled via the M Mode button located on the centre console in order to guarantee the typically exhilarating experience of driving a high-performance sportscar. For instance, in the optionally available TRACK mode, which is designed for racetrack use, all comfort and safety systems are temporarily deactivated. 

Standard equipment for the new BMW M4 Coupé and the new BMW M4 Convertible includes Park Distance Control with sensors at the front and rear, Cruise Control with braking function, Front Collision Warning with brake intervention, Lane Departure Warning including Lane Return function with steering assistance and Traffic Sign Recognition with Speed Limit Info and No Overtaking Indicator. Optional features for the Competition models include Steering and Lane Guidance Assistant with Automatic Speed Limit Assist, Lane Keeping Assistant and Traffic Light Recognition as well as Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function as an integral part of the Driving Assistant Professional. The Parking Assistant facilitates automatic parking (entering/leaving spaces) and also includes the Reversing Assistant as standard.

Modern design accents: New headlight design, taillights featuring laser technology.

The redesigned headlights give the front end of both the new BMW M4 Coupé and the new BMW M4 Convertible a modern look. The inside of the LED headlights, now a standard option, is even more distinctively structured. They also feature further developments in their functionality. Both the low and high beam are now produced by the same LED module. Two vertical LED units, each aligned in an arrowhead shape, assume the function of position and daytime running lights as well as direction indicators. The technology-oriented design of these new light sources provides for a sophisticated and progressive look.

Adaptive LED headlights with anti-glare matrix high beam are available as optional features. They are recognisable by the blue inserts and feature an urban light and cornering light function. Using the urban light function ensures optimised illumination of the roadside areas when travelling at low speeds on roads identified by the navigation data as built-up areas. The low beam function, however, is only activated when a speed of 22 mph has been reached. Furthermore, in conjunction with the adaptive LED headlights M Shadow Line lights featuring dark accents inside are also available. 

Moreover, the adaptive LED headlights are combined with a both visually and technologically impressive design of the LED taillights, which are available for all new versions of all models of the BMW M4 Series and feature laser technology and a fascinating light design. Inside, laser diodes produce an even illumination of glass fibre bundles, the filigree,
3-dimensional light graphics of which complement the taillight clusters. The model-specific version of this innovative light scenario utilizes a technology presented for the first time on the limited edition of the special high-performance model BMW M4 CSL, a model limited to 1,000 units.

A new design of the surrounding surface of the both the BMW logo and the M logo at the rear of the Competition models add further subtle accents for sophisticated elegance. The base of the BMW logo is now finished in High Gloss Black. The BMW M GmbH brand logo situated on the read lid has been complemented by a silver surround. 

A special feature designed exclusively for the model variants of the new BMW M4 Coupé for customisation of the external appearance are optional M design graphics for the bonnet and the rear lid. This contrasting colour emphasises the sporting characteristics of the two-door model and is available either in High Gloss Black or High Gloss Red. The optional steel roof available at no extra cost, which includes an electrically operated glass sliding roof, offers an additional design accent: The sheet metal part of the roof is finished in High Gloss Black instead of the body colour.

M-specific sportscar cockpit with new steering wheel designs and interior trims. 

The modern motor racing ambience inside the new versions of the high-performance models has also undergone further development. New steering wheel designs and control elements as well as high-class materials for the instrument panel and interior trims enhance the exclusive ambience inside the M-specific sportscar cockpits.

The standard M leather steering wheel with multifunction buttons, two M buttons and shift paddles for the Competition models now convey to the driver an even more intensive racetrack feel. The new design comprises a flattened lower section of the steering wheel rim and concisely modified spokes. A red centre marking in the 12 o’clock position underscores the sportive orientation of the steering wheel design. Moreover, for the first time, an M Alcantara steering wheel is available with the same design and range of functions. In addition, a heating function is optionally available for both steering wheel variants.

Furthermore, the M-specific cockpit arrangement also includes a control panel on the centre console, on which the shift lever or gear selector switch, the red Start/Stop button, the BMW iDrive Controller, the Setup and M Mode buttons are situated. These can be activated for individual vehicle configuration as well as for the range of functions of cockpit displays and driver assistance systems, which can be adapted to suit the driving situation at hand. 

Characteristic of M is also the combination of sporty flair and premium ambience inside the vehicle. This is, amongst other things, the result of high-quality design and finishing of the materials used for the interior. The interior trims in the area of the dashboard, the control panel and the cupholder cover now come as standard in the version Dark Graphite matt. Interior trim strips in Aluminium Rhombicle Anthracite as well as in the new variant Finely Polished Aluminium can now be ordered as options for the new BMW M4 Coupé and the new BMW M4 Convertible. The optional instrument panel in the version Sensatec boasts a further refined surface structure.

The M sports seats come as standard and offer manifold electrically operated adjustment options, integrated headrests and illuminated model logos. The ideal position behind the wheel can be stored using the memory function. Heated seats for both driver and front passenger are also standard, with seat ventilation as an option. The standard leather trim Merino, the all-leather trim Merino, the extended BMW Individual leather trim Merino and the BMW Individual all-leather trim Merino are all available in four different colours.

The optional and also fully electrically adjustable and heated M Carbon bucket seats provide for an optimised connection between driver and vehicle. They combine motor racing functionality with lightweight design, cutting-edge workmanship and a high level of long-distance comfort. The use of CRP for the structural elements of the seat and backrest, as well as cut-outs within the area of the side bolsters and beneath the headrests result in a weight reduction of 9.6 kilos compared with the standard sports seats.

In addition, an Air Collar system can be ordered as an exclusive option for the BMW M4 Competition Convertible with M xDrive. It generates a three-stage adjustable airflow, providing pleasant warmth from behind to both driver and front passenger, also during open-top driving and regardless of the outside temperature.

BMW Curved Display and new BMW Operating System 8.5.

More than ever before, the new BMW M4 Coupé and the new BMW M4 Convertible combine exclusive sportscar flair with advanced digitalisation. M-specific information on the high-resolution BMW Curved Display, which is inclined towards the driver, helps the driver to focus fully on the task at hand. The fully digital display combination comprises a 12.3-inch display behind the steering wheel and a control monitor with a 14.9-inch screen diagonal.

The BMW Curved Display serves as a platform for the current BMW iDrive system used in the new BMW M4 Coupé and the new BMW M4 Convertible. The display and operating system, which also includes the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant and is therefore actively designed for touch and voice control, is now based on the BMW Operating System 8.5. The M-specific graphics and contents on the information screen and on the control monitor have been complemented by a new form of operation for the standard 3-zone automatic climate control. Temperature setting, ventilation intensity, heating of both seat and steering wheel can now, depending on how the vehicle is equipped, either be controlled per touch control via a special menu option in the lower part of the control display or by means of voice control.

Advancements in the area of digital operation come with a further reduction in the number of buttons and controls in the cockpit and a redesigned instrument panel. New control buttons for the fresh air vents in the centre of the dashboard and on the driver’s and front passenger’s side enable the setting of the desired direction of airflow by rotating and tilting. Moreover, the standard feature Ambient Lighting now also comprises contour lighting integrated into the cover of the central air vents. Like with the illumination of the footwells and the storage compartments in the area of the centre console and door openers, colour and brightness can be adapted according to individual preferences. There is a choice of nine different colours. The range of interior lighting also includes an atmospheric Welcome and Goodbye scenario as well as light signals that indicate an open door and incoming telephone calls.

The standard feature BMW Live Cockpit Professional also comprises the cloud-based navigation system BMW Maps. Another standard option is the BMW Head-up Display, which projects in an M-specific style driving-related information onto the windscreen, including multi-coloured rev range representation, shift lights and M View.

Furthermore, the standard feature BMW Live Cockpit Professional encompasses two USB ports for data transfer and a wireless network interface as well as Smartphone integration, which permits, inter alia, the use of Apple CarPlay^® and Android Auto™. In addition, telephony with wireless charging of compatible Smartphones and a hi-fi loudspeaker system with 10 sound sources and a 250 W power amplifier are all included in the standard equipment range for the new BMW M4 Coupé and the new BMW M4 Convertible.

Targeted customisation with M Carbon exterior package, M Race Track package and BMW M Performance Parts.

A model-specific M Carbon exterior package is available for precise customisation of these high-performance automobiles, bringing to the fore the racing character of both models even more intensively. The M Carbon exterior package includes inserts for the wide-open front air intakes and a rear diffuser, each featuring its own geometry, exterior mirror caps and – exclusively for the BMW M4 Coupé – a CFP rear spoiler. Vehicle weight has been reduced by up to 25 kilos thanks to the likewise optionally available M Race Track package, which also includes, in addition to M Carbon ceramic brakes, M Carbon bucket seats for both driver and front passenger as well as interior trim strips in High Gloss Carbon Fibre. 

BMW Performance Parts provide additional options for adapting the intensive driving experience and the dynamic aura of the new high-performance sportscars to suit the driver’s very own preferences. The spectrum of model-specific retrofit options encompasses exterior CFP components, M Performance forged wheels with centre lock, M Performance floor mats and M Performance steering wheel trims for individualisation of the interior.

BMW M GmbH closes anniversary year with new sales record.

Munich. At the end of its anniversary year, BMW M GmbH has once again achieved record results. Global sales of performance and high-performance cars rose to 177,257 vehicles during the 2022 financial year. This represents an increase of 8.4 per cent compared to the previous year, despite the continuing challenging conditions in the area of logistics and supply chains. The most important single market in 2022 was again the USA, with the second most important sales region again being the German domestic market, followed by the UK.

“The enthusiasm of the M community for emotionally powerful performance on the road and on the racetrack has carried us through the entire anniversary year,” says Franciscus van Meel, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW M GmbH. “This is also expressed in a new sales record for BMW M automobiles, which gives us a positive outlook for 2023.”

BMW i4 M50: the best-selling BMW M automobile drives locally emission-free.
At the same time, 2022 marks BMW M GmbH's successful start into the age of electric mobility. “The best-selling BMW M automobile of 2022 is the all-electric BMW i4 M50,” says Timo Resch, Head of Customer, Brand and Sales at BMW M GmbH. “For us, this is a clear signal that the unique M feeling has arrived in the world of electrified vehicles.” The BMW i4 M50 is powered by an electric motor on both the front and rear axles, which together generate a maximum output of 400 kW/544 hp. The perfectly coordinated power delivery of the two e-motors and independent suspension tuning ensure an M-typical driving experience characterised by dynamics, agility and precision, which proved to be a real crowd-puller right from the outset.

With the BMW iX M60*, a second all-electric performance car from BMW M GmbH made a highly successful debut. During the course of 2023, BMW M GmbH will continue its product offensive with, among other things, the first electrified high-performance automobile, the BMW XM, and the BMW i7 M70, a BMW M automobile based on the fully electric BMW i7. The further transformation towards electric mobility has also already been mapped out. In order to be able to include high-performance cars with purely electric drive in the range in the future, BMW M GmbH will intensify the corresponding concept testing in 2023. The focus will be on an integrated driving dynamics control system and an electric M xDrive all-wheel drive system with four electric motors, which will ensure that the emotionally powerful M feeling reaches an even higher level.

Anniversary year with spectacular premieres, BMW M3 and BMW M4 remain on the road to success, fast-paced launch for the new BMW M240i xDrive Coupe*.
The celebrations of the 50th anniversary of BMW M GmbH were accompanied by debuts for numerous spectacular new models. The broad spectrum of new releases ranged from the second generation of the puristic BMW M2*, with its combination of straight six-cylinder engine, 6-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive, which evokes classic driving pleasure in a high-performance automobile, to the extroverted BMW XM with its 480 kW/653 hp M HYBRID drive. The first BMW M3 Touring* also offers completely new ways to experience M-typical performance. This diversity creates ideal conditions for attracting additional target groups and generating further growth in 2023.

The current increase in sales figures is also based on sales successes in a wide range of vehicle segments. The high-performance sports cars of the BMW M3 and BMW M4 series, which – including the new BMW M3 Touring – are available in four body variants, in two performance levels, with a choice of a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission, as well as with rear-wheel drive or the all-wheel drive system M xDrive, continued to enjoy particularly widespread popularity in 2022. BMW M GmbH thus covers a wide range of customer needs in this core segment.

With an exceptionally strong performance within their competitive environment, the high-performance cars based on BMW X models also contributed to BMW M GmbH's new sales record. The upcoming upgrade for the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M models in spring 2023 will provide effective impetus for a continuation of this success story.

The successful launch of the new BMW M240i xDrive Coupe in 2022 proved to be a highlight in the performance car segment. The new edition of the compact two-door is powered by a 275 kW/374 hp straight-six engine and is now also available with classic rear-wheel drive. “The new sales record for BMW M Automobiles is based on our successful presence in a broad range of vehicle segments,” says Timo Resch. “With our wide-ranging product portfolio, we are also ideally positioned for the future.”

Premiere at Daytona: the new BMW M3 CS* and the BMW M Hybrid V8.
In addition, BMW M GmbH fulfils the desire for particularly concentrated racing characteristics with attractive special models – as early as 2022 with the BMW M4 CSL* and soon with the new BMW M3 CS.

The BMW M3 CS will make its world debut on the last weekend of January as part of the 24-hour race at Daytona. The tradition-steeped competition in the US state of Florida is also the venue for BMW M Motorsport's comeback to endurance racing. The new BMW M Hybrid V8 will compete there for the first time. 47 years after the Daytona overall victory of the legendary BMW 3.0 CSL, the new LMDh prototype is set to race for points in the IMSA GTP class of the WeatherTech SportsCar Championship before also competing in the official FIA World Endurance Championship at Le Mans and elsewhere in 2024.

The final phase of the development process and the subsequent test drives on various race tracks were among the highlights of 2022 for the BMW M GmbH motorsport department, while the all-important success on the race track was the overall victory in the DTM drivers' and teams' championships. South African Sheldon van der Linde and Team Schubert Motorsport secured the title win in the prestigious touring car championship in the very first season with the new BMW M4 GT3.

*Consumption and emission values:
BMW i4 M50: Power consumption in kWh/100 km combined: 22.5 – 18.1 WLTP.
BMW XM: Fuel consumption in l/100 km combined: 1.6 – 1-5 WLTP; Power consumption in kWh/100 km combined: 30.1 – 28.9 WLTP; CO₂ emissions in g/km combined: 36 – 33 WLTP.
BMW iX M60: Power consumption in kWh/100 km combined: 24.7 – 21.9 WLTP.
BMW M240i xDrive Coupe: Fuel consumption in l/100 km combined: 8.8 – 8.1 WLTP; CO₂ emissions in g/km combined: 200 – 185 WLTP.
BMW M2: Fuel consumption in l/100 km combined: 9.8 – 9.6 WLTP; CO₂ emissions in g/km combined: 222 – 218 WLTP.
BMW M3 Touring: Fuel consumption in l/100 km combined: 10.4 – 10.1 WLTP; CO₂ emissions in g/km combined: 235 – 229 WLTP.
BMW M4 CSL: Fuel consumption in l/100 km combined: 10.1 – 9.9 WLTP; CO₂ emissions in g/km combined: 227 – 224 WLTP.
BMW M3 CS: Fuel consumption in l/100 km combined: 10.4 – 10.1 WLTP; CO₂ emissions in g/km combined: 234 – 229 WLTP.

Munich. BMW will be participating in the Essen Motor Show 2022 with numerous attractions and a diverse programme. Europe's largest trade fair for tuning, motorsport and sporty production vehicles will open its doors at the Gruga-Halle grounds from 3 to 11 December 2022. Among other things, BMW will inspire visitors with a world premiere: In Essen, the new BMW M2 with BMW M Performance Parts (fuel consumption combined: 9.8 - 9.6 l/100 km; CO₂ emissions combined: 222 - 218 g/km according to WLTP; data according to NEDC: - ) will be on display for the first time.

Furthermore, in addition to current BMW M automobiles, other sporty retrofit options from the Original BMW accessories range will be presented at the BMW stand in hall 3. Interviews and autograph sessions with star guests from the motorsport scene round off the varied programme at the BMW stand.

Sharpened appearance, enhanced performance: BMW M Performance Parts for the new BMW M2.

In addition to the sharpened appearance, the customisation options developed specifically for the new BMW M2 also optimise the impressive driving characteristics of the high-performance sports car. The striking add-on parts for the front, rear and sides of the compact two-door model are made of carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP), which is sealed with a transparent coating to reveal the typical fibre structure of the material. Exterior components such as the M Performance Carbon front attachment, the M Performance Carbon side skirt attachments, the M Performance Carbon rear diffuser or the M Performance Carbon rear spoiler underscore the puristic racing genes of the new BMW M2, whilst also having a positive effect on its aerodynamic properties.

Sporty, ambitious drivers will also appreciate the wide range of BMW M Performance Parts in the areas of drive, chassis and cockpit. The M Performance Titanium silencer system, for example, not only saves eight kilograms in weight vs. the standard component, but also brings out the sound of the 338 kW/460 hp straight six-cylinder engine even more intensively. In the interior, the M Performance interior trims Carbon/Alcantara, the M Performance armrest Alcantara and many other high-quality options create a genuine sports car flair, while the M Performance knee pads Alcantara provide a secure grip even during sporty, ambitious driving. This allows you to fully enjoy the agility and cornering dynamics of the M Performance suspension on a closed-off track - or simply enjoy racing-inspired driving pleasure in everyday life.

Fascinating model range, inspiring discussion partners.

From the current model range of BMW M GmbH, the models on show in Essen include the first BMW M3 Touring (fuel consumption combined: 10.4 - 10.1 l/100 km; CO₂ emissions combined: 235 - 229 g/km according to WLTP; data according to NEDC: - ), the BMW M240i Coupe (fuel consumption combined: 8.5 - 7.8 l/100 km; CO₂ emissions combined: 192 - 177 g/km according to WLTP; data according to NEDC: - ) and the all-electric BMW i4 M50 (power consumption combined: 22.5 - 18.1 kWh/100 km; CO₂ emissions combined: 0 g/km according to WLTP; data according to NEDC: - ). Another eye-catcher comes directly from the race track into the exhibition hall: the first M3 Touring MotoGP™ Safety Car. The latest safety car addition from BMW M has been equipped with the entire product range of BMW M Performance Parts for its use in the premium class of road motorcycle racing.

The Red Bull Driftbrothers will bring even more performance and racing aesthetics to Essen. Elias and Johannes Hountondji will be exhibiting one of their drift cars at the BMW stand: Their racing cars are based on a production model of the BMW M4 Series. With a customised exhaust system, custom body kit and an aerodynamics package, it will amaze not only horsepower enthusiasts. On the first three days of the fair, visitors will have the opportunity to meet the Driftbrothers during an autograph session. However, the brothers from Swabia are not the only celebrity guests: on Saturday, 3 December 2022, BMW M Motorsport works driver Jens Klingmann will welcome entrepreneur, influencer and TV presenter Jean Pierre Kraemer (JP Performance) for an interview. The tuning expert will bring along his BMW M4 CSL, which can be admired at the BMW stand for the entire duration of the show.

Goodwood. All eyes will be on BMW M GmbH at the 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed, as BMW’s legendary Motorsport division celebrates five decades of success. Festivalgoers will witness the world premiere of the first-ever BMW M3 Touring and the UK premiere of the new BMW M4 CSL, as both take to the hill throughout the world-famous four-day event. All this against the backdrop of a striking central feature sculpture on the lawn of Goodwood House, designed as a homage to 50 years of motorsport excellence as it showcases some of the most iconic models from BMW M. Elsewhere, visitors will be able to see – and in some cases, drive – the latest models from BMW’s exciting range, including the new BMW iX1, i7, i4 and iX M60.

For the first time in its history, the BMW M range will be complemented by a BMW M3 Touring which is a distillation of the technological prowess and know-how from the BMW M3 and M4 family, combined with the practicality of a five-door touring model. This latest BMW M model will be unveiled at BMW M at Trackside at 10:00 am (BST) on Thursday 23 June, alongside a high-performance M3 Touring with Performance Parts, and can then be seen on the Hillclimb in the ‘First Glance’ category every day of the Festival.

Alongside the M3 Touring and BMW M3 Touring MotoGP Safety Car on the hill will be the new BMW M4 CSL, celebrating its UK premiere. This ultimate, track-honed, two-seater coupe is defined by a 40hp power hike over the current BMW M4 Competition Coupé to 550hp, while meticulous weight-saving measures – including the use of carbon-fibre for the roof, bonnet and boot lid – achieve a 100kg reduction in overall weight (in standard specification in the German market). As a result, the new BMW M4 CSL has recorded the best-ever lap-time for a BMW road car at the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife circuit.

With BMW M GmbH as the honoured marque, the Central Feature in front of Goodwood House will present an eye-catching display of BMW M cars past, present and future. BMW UK will add its legendary BMW 3.0 CSL to the Central Feature, while BMW Group Classic is providing three further examples: the BMW M1 Procar from the late 1970s; a WTCC BMW 3 Series E90; the Le Mans winning 1999 BMW V12 LMR. The display is completed by the BMW M LMDh racecar, that will debut next year.

Besides providing historic BMW M cars for the Central Feature, BMW Group Classic will bring four additional famous race cars to Goodwood’s Hillclimb. Pedro Piquet (BRA), son of three-time F1 World Champion Nelson Piquet, will drive the world’s first turbo-charged F1 World Champion car, the 1983 Brabham BMW BT52.

Steve Soper (UK) will climb the hill in the BMW V12 LMR on Thursday. He is followed by Markus Flasch (CEO of BMW M GmbH, 2018-2021), who will be in the driver’s seat on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

HRH Leopold Prince of Bavaria (GER) will drive the sharknose BMW 635CSi and Bruno Spengler (CAN) will drive his famous BMW Z4 GTR which features the Michel Vaillant Design from the 2015 Spa-Francorchamps 24h race.

For many, BMW M at Trackside will form the focal point for the long weekend’s celebrations. Crowned by an original BMW M1, the stand will host iconic models from BMW M’s illustrious past, from the legendary BMW M3 E30 to the revered BMW M3 CSL E46. They will take their place alongside a thrilling line-up of modern-day BMW M greats, from the ultimate 635hp BMW M5 CS and track-honed BMW M4 GT3 to the exclusive new BMW M850i Convertible and innovative electric BMW i4 M50. Visitors will be able to catch a glimpse of the future for BMW M, with the innovative BMW Concept XM, a vision of uncompromising high performance and extravagant luxury.

The Stable Yard – once again dedicated to BMW’s latest range of all-electric and electrified models – will offer the chance to see the stunning BMW i Vision Circular, a concept which illustrates the company’s determination to become the most sustainable manufacturer. Optimised for the circular economy and with the goal of achieving 100% recycled and recyclable material use, the BMW i Vision Circular offers a view of a compact yet luxurious fully-electric vehicle with a focus on sustainability for the year 2040.

BMW’s sustainability focus is equally apparent in the new BMW i7, on display in The Stable Yard following its recent unveiling. The latest version of the brand’s flagship saloon is set to redefine the luxury segment with new levels of electrification and digitalisation. Its state-of-the-art all-electric drivetrain is complemented by a blend of luxurious interior design and an astonishing entertainment experience, with the multi-sensory BMW iDrive and unique 31.3-inch 8K BMW Theatre Screen. These attributes are further displayed in the powerful new BMW M760e, a plug-in hybrid with 571hp that delivers scintillating performance yet achieves remarkable efficiency.

The recently revealed BMW iX1 will make its UK debut at Goodwood Festival of Speed, representing another first at the Stable Yard. The third-generation BMW X1 features a sharper design, across-the-board sustainability and cutting-edge digital innovations. Available for the first time with an all-electric drive system, the BMW iX1 xDrive30 is set to offer an electric driving range between 257 – 272 miles (WLTP, provisional figures).

These models will also be joined by the company’s technology flagship, the new BMW iX M60, a fully-electric Sports Activity Vehicle that combines emissions-free driving pleasure and sporting agility with lounge-style luxury and comfort. Powered by two BMW M eDrive electric motors to provide intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive capability, the BMW iX M60 can accelerate from 0-62 mph in a seamless 3.8 seconds, yet still achieve up to 348 miles (WLTP) of driving range on a single charge.

Members of the public will be able to experience the BMW iX M60’s searing performance for themselves during Friday’s ‘Electric Only’ Motor Circuit Test Drives, where they’ll also be able to take to the circuit behind the wheel of the new BMW i4, the brand’s first-ever fully-electric Gran Coupé, and the practical BMW iX3.

Frank van Meel, CEO of BMW M, said: “There can be no better place to celebrate our 50th anniversary than among our fans at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed, surrounded by the iconic cars that have cemented our position in motorsport history. But we’ll also spend our time at the world-famous event looking to the future, with a selection of exciting new models from our innovative electrified line-up, and the global premiere of the eagerly-anticipated first-ever BMW M3 Touring.”

The Goodwood Festival of Speed is being held over four days from 23-26 June 2022.

Munich. Within the framework of spectacular events featuring sensational new model innovations and together with its worldwide community, BMW M GmbH is celebrating the first five decades of its existence during these weeks and months. On 24 May 1972, the partnership agreement for BMW Motorsport GmbH was signed. Exactly 50 years later to the day, the company now known as BMW M GmbH is presenting an exclusive collection of edition models as a current anniversary highlight.

With the BMW M 50 Jahre edition of the BMW M3 Sedan (fuel consumption combined: 10.2 – 9.8 litres/100 km; CO₂ emissions combined: 231 – 223 g/km according to WLTP; data according to NEDC: – ) and the BMW M4 Coupe (fuel consumption combined: 10.1 – 9.8 litres/100 km; CO₂ emissions combined: 230 – 223 g/km according to WLTP; data according to NEDC: – ), M enthusiasts around the globe can express both their passion for racing and their awareness of tradition. Limited editions, exclusive design features and individually selectable equipment options ensure that each edition vehicle can become a unique car that reflects the personal style of its owner.

The BMW M 50 Jahre edition is based on the current generation of the most successful model series in the history of BMW M GmbH. Worldwide, the model designations BMW M3 and BMW M4 are synonymous with high performance in the premium mid-range segment. The edition models are powered by a straight six-cylinder engine with up to 375 kW/510 hp, M TwinPower Turbo technology and high-revving characteristics. Depending on the model variant, its power is transferred to the rear wheels via a 6-speed manual transmission or an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, or fully variably distributed to all four wheels using M xDrive technology.

The exclusive character of the edition models is the result of a market-specific configuration with unique design features and a strictly limited number of units in each case. In this way, fascinating rarities are created for the most important automotive markets around the world. For the exterior paintwork of the edition vehicles, style-defining colours from the history of BMW M GmbH are being reissued. These are complemented by M forged wheels in a similarly exclusive colour scheme and striking accents in the interior.

In Europe and other selected sales regions, BMW M GmbH is offering an exclusive edition of the BMW M4 Coupe to mark its anniversary. The two-door BMW M 50 Jahre edition comes in the exterior colours Carbon Black, Macao Blue, Brands Hatch Grey, Imola Red and San Marino Blue. Their expressive appearance is enhanced by 19-inch M forged wheels on the front axle and 20-inch wheels on the rear axle featuring a double-spoke design, which are being offered for the first time in the colours Orbit Grey Matt and Gold Bronze matt.

In addition, a similarly limited number of edition vehicles of the BMW M4 Coupe are being produced for the Chinese automotive market and available in the exterior paint finishes Fire Orange and Stratus Grey. This colour selection relates to the fact that the anniversary of BMW M GmbH is being celebrated in China in the Year of the Tiger. The M forged wheels on these vehicles are finished in matt Orbit Grey in conjunction with the Fire Orange body colour and in matt Gold Bronze in conjunction with the Stratus Grey exterior paint finish.

In the interior of all edition vehicles based on the BMW M4 Coupe, door sill panels bearing the lettering “Edition 50 Jahre BMW M”, a metal plaque on the centre console with the lettering “M4 Edition 50 Jahre BMW M” and a corresponding imprint on the headrests of the standard M sports seats and the optional M carbon bucket seats for driver and front passenger hint at the anniversary.

The edition model on the basis of the BMW M3 Sedan was designed exclusively for the US and Canadian automotive markets. There is a choice of five exterior paint finishes for the 500 models of the four-door high-performance sports car available there, each of which is reminiscent of one of its five predecessors: from Vermilion Red to Techno Violet, Interlagos Blue and Fire Orange to Limerock Grey. All body colours are combined with M forged wheels in Orbit Grey matt and selected BMW M Performance Parts. The components, which are inspired by racing in terms of design and technology and likewise included in the range of equipment available for the anniversary edition, also comprise the BMW M Performance front splitter Carbon, the BMW M Performance rear spoiler Carbon and the BMW M Performance tailpipe trims Carbon/Titanium.

The “Edition 50 Jahre BMW M” lettering on the door sill trims and M stripes on the headrests of the front and outer rear seats characterise the interior. Moreover, an exclusive seam pattern adorns both the standard M sports seats and the optionally available M carbon bucket seats of the edition vehicles. A metal plaque on the cupholder cover of the centre console bears the inscription “M3 Edition 50 Jahre BMW M” and the reference “1/500”.

With its next-level power and intelligent lightweight design, two-seater configuration, model-specific chassis upgrades and equipment features selected specially for the job at hand, the new BMW M4 CSL has track driving as its raison d’être. The genes the M4 CSL shares with its competition-spec sibling, the BMW M4 GT3, are also reflected in its performance attributes. In test runs on the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife circuit, the BMW M4 CSL posted the fastest lap times ever for a series-produced BMW car. On the version of the track traditionally used for comparison purposes – which is 20.600 kilometres / 12.8 miles in length and doesn’t include the straight at section T13 – it stopped the clock at 7 min. 15.677 sec. Its official and notarised lap time for the 20.832-kilometres / 12.943-mile circuit (the complete lap) was 7 min. 20.207 sec. Acceleration figures of 3.7 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) and 10.7 seconds for the sprint from 0 to 200 km/h (124 mph) are similarly impressive.

“Competition, Sport, Lightweight”: a recipe with a rich tradition.

The stripped-back racing character of the BMW M4 CSL is underpinned by a time-honoured concept that harnesses cutting-edge development expertise and the latest technology to create an enthralling end result. “CSL” stands for “Competition, Sport, Lightweight”, referencing the critical role of weight-minimised design in achieving success in motor sport. The BMW 3.0 CSL developed by BMW Motorsport GmbH according to this same principle won the European Touring Car Championship at the first attempt in 1973. And the M4 CSL is also following in the tyre tracks of successful special-edition models from earlier generations of the BMW M3/M4, most notably the legendary BMW M3 CSL from 2003 and the BMW M4 GTS unveiled in 2016.

For BMW M GmbH, the world premiere of the new BMW M4 CSL at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este (20 – 22 May 2022) will be one of the highlights of its 50th anniversary year. Production of the special-edition model will begin – in a limited run of exactly 1,000 examples – at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing in July 2022.

Present and correct in the fundamentals and the details: intelligent lightweight design in the BMW M4 CSL.

Its talent for innovation and racing-car know-how enabled BMW M GmbH to restrict the special edition’s DIN kerb weight to 1,625 kilograms. A standout power-to-weight ratio of 2.95 kilograms per hp (4.01 kg/kW) provides the ideal platform for a dynamically sublime driving experience.

Fitting M Carbon full bucket seats reduced weight by around 24 kilograms on its own compared with the standard seats fitted in the BMW M4 Competition Coupé. 21 kilograms were saved by removing the rear seats and seat belts, integrating a partition and making the associated modifications to the luggage compartment. And chassis changes, including the addition of extra-lightweight M Carbon ceramic brakes and special light-alloy wheels, springs and struts, lowered the figure by around another 21 kilograms. Paring back the amount of soundproofing plus switching to ultra-lightweight sound insulation saved around 15 kilograms, while the use of components made from carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) deducted some eleven kilograms. For example, in addition to its CFRP roof, the bonnet and boot lid of the BMW M4 CSL are also hewn from this lightweight high-tech material, as is its centre console. And a titanium rear silencer cuts more than four kilograms from the weight of the exhaust system. Detail modifications to areas such as the BMW kidney grille, rear lights, floor mats and automatic climate control shave off another four kilograms.

Exclusive exterior paint finish, model-specific design features.

The body of the BMW M4 CSL is painted in the exclusive Frozen Brooklyn Grey metallic as standard. This exterior shade teams up with exposed carbon-fibre surfaces and red accents to create a visually expressive appearance of sporting purity. Alternatively, customers can specify their new M4 CSL in Alpine White solid or Sapphire Black metallic.

The carbon-fibre structure of the body components is visible in various areas, including the two chiselled indents in the bonnet. The surfaces of the indents – which are not painted in body colour – are highlighted additionally by red outlines. Red accent lines also bring extra emphasis to the two fins on the CFRP roof of the new BMW M4 CSL, the contours of its side sills, the black model badges, and the model-specific CFRP splitters and air curtain inserts in the front apron.

BMW Laserlight: yellow headlights and innovative rear lights.

The optionally available BMW Laserlight headlights bring another head-turning accent to the front end of the new BMW M4 CSL. Both in the welcome effect triggered when unlocking the doors and when the low and high beam are switched on, these headlights illuminate in yellow rather than white, bringing to mind the look of successful GT racing cars.

The LED rear lights of the new BMW M4 CSL are equipped as standard with technology making its debut in a series-produced car. Their glass covers have intricate light threads woven into them which are illuminated using laser technology, bringing a vibrant structure to the surface of the lights. This creates a highly distinctive light signature that is recognisable from a long distance during the hours of darkness.

Six-cylinder in-line engine with race-focused character.

The model-specific power unit of the BMW M4 CSL is based on the same high-revving, six-cylinder in-line engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology found in the BMW M4 GT3 racing car. Its substantial performance reserves enabled a major hike in power without having to make any concessions in terms of stability or durability. Key to this power boost was an increase in the maximum charge pressure of the two mono-scroll turbochargers from 1.7 bar to 2.1 bar and model-specific tweaks to the engine management. The BMW M4 CSL’s engine develops peak torque of 650 Nm (479 lb-ft) between 2,750 and 5,950 rpm. Its maximum output of 405 kW/550 hp is produced at 6,250 rpm.

The race-derived design of the 3.0-litre engine is focused squarely on high revs and maximum power development. The crankcase’s sleeve-free, closed-deck construction helps to make it extremely rigid, while the forged lightweight crankshaft allows it to handle extremely high levels of torque. Another special M-specific feature is the cylinder head core made using 3D printing techniques.

Both the cooling and oil supply systems are designed to handle the particular challenges presented by track driving. The twin-tailpipe exhaust system with electrically controlled flaps and weight-minimised titanium rear silencer additionally generates a racing-car-inspired, emotionally engaging engine note created especially for the new BMW M4 CSL.

The drive torque produced by the engine is relayed to the rear wheels of the new BMW M4 CSL via an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic. Model-specific mountings for the engine and transmission ensure the engine’s power is translated into dynamic performance in exceptionally rapid and direct fashion. The firmer connection of the engine and transmission to the car’s structure is clearly perceptible, especially under hard driving.

Optimised body rigidity, model-specific chassis technology.

Like the engine in the new BMW M4 CSL, its chassis technology benefits from a wealth of detail upgrades – which have been tailored to the power unit’s performance characteristics. These modifications also factor in the substantial reduction in vehicle weight at play here and the model-specific improvements to body rigidity, allowing the blend of handling agility, dynamism and precision for which BMW M cars are renowned to be taken to new heights.

In the engine compartment, a composition of front-end strut braces developed entirely from scratch raises the body rigidity of the new BMW M4 CSL up another level. Using numerical models, the geometry of the cast aluminium elements between the spring strut towers and the front end has been adapted precisely to the forces exerted in different driving situations.

The individually tuned axle kinematics and model-specific wheel camber settings, dampers, auxiliary springs and anti-roll bars optimise steering precision, transmission of lateral control forces when cornering, spring and damping response, and wheel location. The model-specific wheel suspension is accompanied by a drop in ride height of eight millimetres compared with the BMW M4 Competition Coupé. Also to be found on the standard equipment list for the special-edition model are adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers, electromechanical M Servotronic steering with variable ratio and M Carbon ceramic brakes. An M-specific version of the integrated braking system offers the driver excellent pedal feel even when pushing the dynamic limits and in adverse road conditions.

M Traction Control optimised for the track.

The standard-fitted M Traction Control function with model-specific track tuning lets the driver set individual intervention thresholds for wheel slip limitation. On dry surfaces, stages 1 to 5 of M Traction Control help the driver to execute controlled drifts. Stages 6 to 10 are based on the application developed for touring car racers and make allowance for both surface conditions and tyre temperature to maximise traction and directional stability.

Also specified as standard are forged M light-alloy wheels in an exclusive cross-spoke design (19 inches at the front axle and 20 inches at the rear). These are fitted with high-performance tyres specially developed for the special-edition model in size 275/35 ZR19 (front) and 285/30 ZR20 (rear).

Equipment designed to provide a race-car feeling and everyday usability.

Model-specific equipment features give the BMW M4 CSL a distinctive balance between sports car purism, unrestricted everyday usability and exclusive premium substance. The M Carbon full bucket seats for the driver and co-driver are marked out by their self-supporting CFRP structure and purposeful rejection of comfort-enhancing features. They have a fixed backrest angle, forward/back adjustments can be made manually, and the seat height can only be adjusted in a workshop using a three-stage screw linkage. The M Carbon full bucket seats also have detachable head restraints and allow the integration of a six-point belt system.

The M Alcantara steering wheel, anthracite-coloured headliner, Carbon Fibre interior trim strips, “CSL” badges on the seats, centre console and rear panel, plus M-specific displays also help to create the perfect on-board setting for concentrated driving pleasure. Merino leather trim with extended features and M seat belts are also standard. Two helmet storage units can be found in the rear compartment.

The M-specific control/operation system includes the M Setup button for direct access to numerous vehicle settings and two M buttons on the steering wheel for storing preferred configurations. Standard equipment also features the M Drive Professional system including M Drift Analyser and M Laptimer, plus the M Mode button for activating the ROAD, SPORT and TRACK settings.

The likewise standard BMW Live Cockpit Professional comprises a fully digital screen grouping made up of an instrument cluster with a 12.3-inch screen diagonal behind the steering wheel and a 10.25-inch control display. Among its functions are the navigation system BMW Maps, the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, smartphone integration, telephony with wireless charging and a Wi-Fi interface. The BMW Head-Up Display with M-specific elements and the BMW Drive Recorder can be ordered from the options list.

The range of comfort-enhancing features and driver assistance systems fitted in the BMW M4 CSL are focused on the essentials, in keeping with its intelligent lightweight design approach and puristic vehicle concept. Standard specification includes automatic climate control, Park Distance Control, Front Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning and Speed Limit Info. Two-zone automatic climate control, an alarm, and the Driving Assistant and Parking Assistant systems are available as options.

Munich. For the third time in a row, BMW M GmbH ended the financial year as the global market leader in the performance and high-performance car segment. Indeed, the company posted record sales once again in 2021. A total of 163,542 BMW M cars were delivered to customers worldwide last year, a 13 percent increase on 2020.

This growth was spread equally between the High-Performance sports cars and Performance cars made by BMW M GmbH, with both product categories raising their sales figures to a new level. “This success is the perfect start to our anniversary year,” says Franciscus van Meel, CEO of BMW M GmbH. “M is in a stronger position than ever as it celebrates its 50th birthday.”

New BMW M3 and new BMW M4 enjoy immediate success.

The biggest drivers of growth among the High-Performance sports cars were the new BMW M3 and BMW M4 models introduced in spring 2021. Fuelled by a vehicle concept focused squarely on emotionally charged dynamism and unprecedented diversity in the model range, the new BMW M3 Sedan (fuel consumption combined: 10.2 – 10.0 l/100 km [27.7 – 28.3 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions combined: 231 – 227 g/km as per WLTP), new BMW M4 Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 10.1 – 9.9 l/100 km [28.0 – 28.5 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions combined: 230 – 226 g/km as per WLTP) and new BMW M4 Convertible (fuel consumption combined: 10.2 l/100 km [27.7 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions combined: 233 – 231 g/km as per WLTP) got off to an extremely successful start. The latest model generation is the first to offer customers two output levels topping out at 375 kW/510 hp, the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system and a choice of either a six-speed manual gearbox or the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission.

“The response to the new generation of the BMW M3 and BMW M4 has been simply overwhelming,” reports Timo Resch, Vice President Customer, Brand and Sales at BMW M GmbH. “We can therefore expect demand for these iconic sports cars to continue on an upward curve in 2022.”

Also making a powerful contribution to the latest rise in High-Performance model sales at BMW M GmbH were the BMW X5 M Competition (fuel consumption combined: 13.6 – 13.3 l/100 km [20.8 – 21,2 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions combined: 308 – 303 g/km as per WLTP) and BMW X6 M Competition (fuel consumption combined: 13.4 – 13.1 l/100 km [21.1 – 21.6 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions combined: 305 – 299 g/km as per WLTP). Following the successful market launch of the latest model generation the previous year, the charismatic High-Performance sports cars in the Sports Activity Vehicle and Sports Activity Coupé segment – both powered by a 460 kW/625 hp V8 engine – increased their sales figures once again in 2021.

Alluring and in demand: the BMW M models in the BMW 4 Series range.

The dynamic excellence, agility and precision for which M is renowned also enabled the brand’s Performance models to delight and excite a wide range of customers over the past year. Credit for the latest boost to sales goes above all to the M models based on the new BMW 4 Series. Particularly popular were the variants of the new BMW 4 Series Coupé, whose line-up consists of the BMW M440i Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 8.1 – 7.4 l/100 km [34.8 – 38.2 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions combined: 184 – 167 g/km as per WLTP) and BMW M440i xDrive Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 8.2 – 7.5 l/100 km [34.5 – 37.7 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions combined: 186 – 170 g/km as per WLTP) powered by a 275 kW/374 hp six-cylinder in-line petrol engine, and the BMW M440d xDrive Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 6.3 – 5.7 l/100 km [44.8 – 49.6 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions combined: 165 – 150 g/km as per WLTP), whose six-cylinder in-line diesel unit produces 250 kW/340 hp.

The latest BMW X models within the ranks of M’s Performance cars also proved extremely desirable. Indeed, the BMW X3 M40i powered by a six-cylinder in-line engine with 265 kW/360 hp (fuel consumption combined: 9.5 – 8.8 l/100 km [29.7 – 32.1 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions combined: 216 – 199 g/km as per WLTP) and the BMW X7 M50i (fuel consumption combined: 12.8 – 12.3 l/100 km [22.1 – 23.0 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions combined: 292 – 280 g/km as per WLTP) with its 390 kW/530 hp V8 unit both posted an increase in new registrations.

Looking ahead to an anniversary year brimming with highlights.

BMW M GmbH will continue its product offensive in this anniversary year with the addition of new High-Performance and Performance models. Highlights include the new BMW M240i xDrive Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 8.8 – 8.1 l/100 km [32.1 – 34.9 mpg imp]; CO₂ emissions combined: 200 – 185 g/km as per WLTP) and the arrival later in the year of the first BMW M3 Touring and an exclusive special-edition model based on the new BMW M4 Coupé.

In addition, the BMW Group subsidiary – which was founded as BMW Motorsport GmbH in May 1972 and enjoys the status of an independent manufacturer – will also drive the transformation to electric mobility. Following in the tyre tracks of the BMW i4 M50 (electric power consumption combined: 22.5 – 18.0 kWh/100 km as per WLTP; CO₂ emissions combined: 0 g/km) in the first half of 2022 will be the likewise fully electric BMW iX M60 (projected electric power consumption combined: 24.7 – 21.7 kWh/100 km as per WLTP; CO₂ emissions combined: 0 g/km).

The most powerful BMW M model ever made points the way to the future of the brand.

The anniversary year will be crowned by the start of production of the BMW XM. The most powerful BMW M car ever to go into series production is also the brand’s first High-Performance model to employ a plug-in hybrid drive system. Its newly developed M Hybrid technology brings together a V8 engine and a high-performance electric motor to develop maximum output of 550 kW/750 hp and peak torque of 1,000 Nm (737 lb-ft). The design of the BMW XM majors on presence and extrovert appeal and in so doing sends out a clear statement in the luxury segment.

“Our first standalone model since the legendary BMW M1 represents a complete re-imagining of the high-performance car segment,” says van Meel. “The BMW XM blends expressive design and progressive interior luxury with an incomparable driving experience that serves up both sublime performance and the ability to glide along in near silence in all-electric mode. In so doing, it provides an inimitable expression of poise and assurance, and at the same time points the way to the future of our brand.”

Munich. More performance, more driven wheels, more inimitable M feeling. Just a few months after the new BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupé went on sale, BMW M GmbH is adding another two variants to the model line-up by offering the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system for the high-performance sports cars in the premium midsize segment for the first time. Precisely channelling the engine’s power to all four wheels brings supreme dynamic prowess to the BMW M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive (fuel consumption combined: 10.1 – 10.0 l/100 km [28.0 – 28.2 mpg imp] in the WLTP cycle; CO2 emissions combined: 231 – 228 g/km in WLTP) and BMW M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive (fuel consumption combined: 10.1 – 10.0 l/100 km [28.0 – 28.2 mpg imp] in WLTP; CO2 emissions combined: 230 – 227 g/km in WLTP).

The power from the 375 kW/510 hp straight-six engine fitted in the new models is directed via an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic. The M-specific all-wheel-drive system then divides it between the front and rear wheels as required to enhance agility, directional stability, traction and track-focused dynamics at all times. This allows the driver to experience an intoxicating interpretation of the hallmark M performance characteristics reflected, among other things, in even quicker acceleration. The launch of the BMW M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive and BMW M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive will get underway in July 2021.

M xDrive and Active M Differential for superior handling dynamics.
The M xDrive system’s specially tuned power transmission control already provides a smile-inducing alternative to classical rear-wheel drive for a host of high-performance models from BMW M GmbH. Teaming up with the all-wheel-drive system is the Active M Differential, which also ensures fully variable distribution of drive torque between the rear wheels as the situation demands. This helps to transfer the drive torque to the road without any loss of power, especially when the car is being pushed hard or has less grip on one side. The M xDrive system and the Active M Differential – complete with its integrated M-specific traction control – link up with the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system to ensure precisely judged interaction for the driving situation at hand. The clear aim here is to produce a supremely dynamic driving experience blending the customary M feeling with noticeably enhanced traction and directional stability.

The M xDrive system uses an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch in the transfer case for smoothly adjustable, fully variable distribution of drive torque between the front and rear wheels. The multi-plate clutch’s oil supply has been optimised to keep the variable power splitting mechanism performing effectively even under hard driving on the track. The task of transmitting power to the front and rear differentials is handled by driveshafts engineered specifically for the BMW M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive and BMW M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive. The output shafts that relay the drive torque to the wheels are likewise bespoke items. The all-wheel-drive system has a rear-biased setup in classic M style. Normally, the drive power is channelled entirely rearwards, with the front wheels only being brought into play when the rears cannot feed any more power to the road.

The transfer case features a bespoke control unit and integrated wheel slip limitation. This enables it to compensate for any differences in rotational speed between the front and rear wheels exceptionally quickly without having to involve the central DSC management. This results in enhanced all-wheel-drive performance whose principal effect is to further intensify the sense of unshakable poise for which M models are renowned in highly dynamic driving situations, such as powering through corners in a controlled drift.

The improvements in traction, handling stability, agility and dynamism brought about by the combination of M xDrive and Active M Differential also translate into superior sprinting ability. The BMW M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive and BMW M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive both need just 3.5 seconds to reach the 100 km/h (62 mph) mark from standstill, making them 0.4 seconds quicker here than their rear-wheel-drive equivalents.

The dynamic transmission of power to the road in the BMW M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive and BMW M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive takes place via standard M light-alloy wheels measuring 19 inches in diameter at the front axle and 20 inches at the rear. The forged wheels in twin-spoke design with a Jet Black finish are fitted with tyres measuring 275/35 R19 at the front and 285/30 R20 at the rear. Specially designed track tyres with the same dimensions are also available as an option.

Major technical modifications optimise performance characteristics.
The all-wheel-drive technology in the new BMW M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive and BMW M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive is complemented by a double-joint spring strut front axle redesigned for these models and featuring specially adapted front axle geometry and an individually tuned steering ratio. These extensive bespoke modifications for the all-wheel-drive system ensure that both the existing pure rear-wheel-drive variants and their new M xDrive siblings stand out with their engineered-without-compromise, signature M steering characteristics. The all-wheel-drive models additionally benefit from a specially adapted version of the engine oil supply system designed to handle extremely dynamic performance.

Three M xDrive modes enable a customised M feeling.
M xDrive also allows the driver to tailor the all-wheel-drive system’s characteristics and performance to the driving situation and their individual preferences. The desired setting can be selected directly from the Setup menu of the M-specific operating system, where there is a choice of three different power transmission modes. In the default 4WD setting, the all-wheel-drive system offers maximum traction and precisely controllable handling while maintaining a distinctly rear-biased power split at all times. Activating 4WD Sport mode directs an even greater proportion of the engine’s torque to the rear wheels, even in extremely dynamic driving situations, resulting in sharper agility. The linear build-up of lateral forces so characteristic of M models now also makes it possible to execute controlled drifts. Drivers can also switch off the DSC system altogether and engage 2WD mode, where drive power is relayed solely to the rear wheels. If the optional M Traction Control is fitted, traction can be finely adjusted through ten stages in this setting in the same way as on the rear-wheel-drive models. This form of power transmission without any intervention from the chassis control systems to stabilise the vehicle allows seasoned drivers to enjoy a driving experience of remarkable purity and hone their skills with the help of the optional M Drift Analyser.

Drivers can set and store their preferred M xDrive mode as part of the two individual M1 and M2 configurations, together with the settings for engine characteristics, damper response, steering characteristics, braking system and other parameters. Either configuration can then be called up instantly at any time by pressing one of the two M buttons on the steering wheel.

Individual M feeling: six models each with their own character.
By adding two all-wheel-drive model variants to the range, BMW M GmbH now offers an unrivalled variety of high-performance midsize models. The BMW M3 Sedan (fuel consumption combined: 10.2 – 9.9 l/100 km [27.7 – 28.5 mpg imp] in the WLTP cycle; CO2 emissions combined: 231 – 226 g/km in WLTP) and BMW M4 Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 10.2 – 9.9 l/100 km [27.7 – 28.5 mpg imp] in WLTP; CO2 emissions combined: 231 – 226 g/km in WLTP) offer a unique selling point over their rivals in their combination of rear-wheel drive and a six-speed manual gearbox. Drive power in the BMW M3 Competition Sedan (fuel consumption combined: 9.8 – 9.6 l/100 km [28.8 – 29.4 mpg imp] in WLTP; CO2 emissions combined: 224 – 219 g/km in WLTP) and BMW M4 Competition Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 9.8 – 9.6 l/100 km [28.8 – 29.4 mpg imp] in WLTP; CO2 emissions combined: 224 – 219 g/km in WLTP) is likewise directed to the rear wheels, here via an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic.

This quartet is now joined by the newly arrived BMW M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive and BMW M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive. This means the latest model generation already spans six vehicles with distinct characters, each providing their own individual recipe for a sublime high-performance sports car offering unrestricted everyday usability. And customers will soon find even greater scope for matching M’s distinctive approach to high-performance driving with their personal style when the new edition of the BMW M4 Convertible joins the model range later this year.

Please find attached on location pictures and footage of the International Media Launch of the new BMW M3 Competition Sedan and the new BMW M4 Competition Coupé.

Munich. With yet another new sales record, the BMW M GmbH continued to grow also in the 2020 fiscal year. Despite the effects of the Corona pandemic on the market, it was possible to increase the number of BMW M automobiles sold by 6 percent to 144,218 units. Thanks to this result, the subsidiary company of the BMW Group with the status of an independent company has significantly strengthened its market leadership within the competitive environment first gained in 2019. “The fact that we were able to conclude this exceptionally challenging year with yet a further record is great validation of our consistent growth strategy,” says Markus Flasch, chairman of the board of the BMW M GmbH. “We can be particularly proud of the fact that we were able not only to defend our market dominance as the most successful provider of performance and high-performances automobiles, but also to have even expanded it.”

The further increase in sales figures was due, inter alia, to the successful market launch of the models BMW X5 M (combined fuel consumption: 13.1 – 12.6 l/100 km according to WLTP, 13.0 – 12.8 l/100 km according to NEDC; combined CO₂ emissions: 298 – 287 g/km according to WLTP, 296 – 287 g/km according to NEDC) and BMW X6 M (combined fuel consumption: 13.4 – 13.1 l/100 km according to WLTP, 13.1 l/100 km according to NEDC; combined CO₂ emissions: 305 – 300 g/km according to WLTP, 301 g/km according to NEDC). With V8 power units delivering up to 460 kW/625 hp, BMW M automobiles from the Sports Activity Vehicle and Sports Activity Coupe segment offer a particularly characteristic high-performance experience. Likewise, the special edition model BMW M2 CS (combined fuel consumption: 10.1 – 9.2 l/100 km according to WLTP, 10.4 – 9.4 l/100 km according to NEDC; combined CO₂ emissions: 229 – 210 g/km according to WLTP, 238 – 214 g/km according to NEDC), which serves as the basis for a new competition vehicle from BMW Motorsport, has also received a positive response. In the high-performance model sector alone, it was possible to increase the number of worldwide deliveries by 4 percent vs. the year 2019.

Moreover, it was predominantly the performance automobiles developed for the new BMW 3 Series and the new BMW 4 Series that helped boost the sales of the BMW M GmbH so decisively. With powerful straight six-cylinder petrol and diesel power plants, specific suspension tuning and stand-alone design features, the top-of-the-range offer for the BMW 3 Series Sedan, the BMW 3 Series Touring and the BMW 4 Series Coupe also guarantees that characteristic M experience in the premium mid-range segment, coupled with unrestricted suitability for everyday use and long distances.

Growing demand in all relevant markets.

Technology transferred from motor racing, precisely coordinated features in the areas of drive systems, suspension, aerodynamics, interior design and operation as well as the resulting authentic character of BMW M automobiles, create a fascination, which continued in 2020 to captivate an increasing number of performance-oriented customers throughout the world. For example, in the USA, the most important market for BMW M automobiles, as well as in China, new records were achieved. In both Russia and Korea, it was possible to increase sales by more than 60 percent, and in Italy by 47 percent. And in the UK, too, the number of vehicles delivered exceeded our expectations. “We notice a steadily growing demand in all relevant markets for BMW M automobiles,” explains Thomas Felbermair, head of Sales and Marketing at BMW M GmbH. “Because of this and thanks to the engagement of our strong dealer network, we have been outstandingly successful in coping with the challenges posed by the pandemic.”

Ready to go: BMW M5 CS, BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe.

Looking towards the future, the initial focus shifts to the world premiere of the BMW M5 CS, which will take place in January 2021. A special edition of the BMW M5 will then be available for the first time – with outstanding performance and exclusive motorsport characteristics. Following that, the main focus will be on the market launch of the new BMW M3 Sedan starting in March 2021 (combined fuel consumption: 10.6 – 10.3 l/100 km according to WLTP, 10.8 l/100 km according to NEDC; combined CO₂ emissions: 241 – 236 g/km according to WLTP, 248 g/km according to NEDC) and the new BMW M4 Coupe (combined fuel consumption: 10.5 – 10.3 l/100 km according to WLTP, 10.8 l/100 km according to NEDC; combined CO₂ emissions: 240 –  235 g/km according to WLTP, 248 g/km according to NEDC). The two high-performance automobiles represent the essence of that unmistakable M feeling. Immediately after their world premiere, the new model generation aroused keen interest around the globe.

In future, the wishes of the M Community will be fulfilled by extraordinary diversity: Each variant with classic manual shift will be complemented by a Competition model featuring an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic. Moreover, in the summer of 2021, the four-wheel drive system M xDrive will be added for the first time to the drive portfolio for the BMW M3 and the BMW M4. And the BMW M4 Convertible will also be launched in time for the warm season. On the other hand, the first BMW M3 Touring is still undergoing the series development process.

A glance into the future: continued growth, new M feeling through electrification, and an anniversary. 

“It is remarkable that it was possible to achieve the new sales record even before the launch of our most important models,” says Markus Flasch. “The new BMW M3 and BMW M4 generation offers us the promise of dynamic growth in 2021 as well.” Moreover, he now also looks forward to presenting a completely new manifestation of the distinctive M feeling. Electrification will provide the basis for this. During the year 2021, the BMW M GmbH will be presenting an electrically powered performance automobile for the first time.

With this setting of agenda with which the “Power of Choice” strategy has been realised within the model range of the BMW M GmbH, and an exceptionally strong product range, the company is heading full of optimism for the forthcoming anniversary year. 2022 will be the year in which the BMW M GmbH celebrates 50 years of its existence. Markus Flasch has already announced “a year full of surprises”: “If I mention the keyword special edition models, it should be clear what our customers can look forward to during the anniversary year.”

Munich. Four wins: BMW M is sending the successful BMW M4 GT4 motorsport model into its fourth racing season with four exclusive new designs and is offering the four spectacular winning designs from an internal design competition in a limited edition to interested customer teams, BMW M fans and car enthusiasts. Since 2018, the BMW M4 GT4 has been taking part successfully in numerous racing series around the world. In addition to the car’s performance, BMW customer teams also appreciate its rational features in areas important to this segment such as mileage, cost efficiency and ease of maintenance. The BMW M4 GT4 can be used in sprint formats as well as with an endurance package in long-distance races. "Powersticks" make it easy to adjust the power levels to those that are relevant in terms of Balance of Performance. The price of the BMW M4 GT4 with one of the four exclusive designs is 174,000 Euros net in Germany. The limited edition will be distributed by BMW M Motorsport dealers and the BMW M GmbH customer sport sales department.

30 designers took part in the worldwide creative competition organised by the BMW Group and the BMW Group company Designworks. The four-member jury consisting of Adrian van Hooydonk, Head of BMW Group Design, Domagoj Dukec, Head of BMW Design, Markus Flasch, CEO BMW M GmbH, and Jens Marquardt, the BMW Group Motorsport Director at the time, selected four spectacular designs. "The quality of all the designs we received was impressive and shows just how creative and passionate our designers are about motorsport. All four selected designs emphasise the highly dynamic character of the BMW M4 GT4. The jury was particularly impressed by the perfect interplay of the topics of BMW Motorsport history, classic BMW M icons and how the number four was interpreted.

The designs of Julia Quentin of BMW Motorrad from Munich (GER), Simon Haynes of Rolls-Royce Design from Goodwood (GBR), Wesselka Mandowa-Maier of Designworks from Los Angeles (USA) and Li Tianyuan of BMW i Design from Munich (GER) were awarded by the jury. The designs were applied to the BMW M4 GT4 using high quality foil. The winning designs from four different design departments and three different countries reflect the level of interest and great appreciation for motorsport within the entire BMW Group.

The four winning designs:

Fractal Duality
Julia Quentin, BMW Motorrad Design, Munich
In her design, as the colour and material designer of BMW Motorrad, she focuses primarily on large geometric shapes and a prominent inclusion of the number "04": "My work combines two of my greatest passions, namely motorcycling and designing motorbikes. In my designs I always consider how graphics and patterns can emphasise the sculptural geometry of an object. Adding details and colours can completely change and emotionalise a design. I love to create disruptive designs that convey a strong visual message. That's why I designed a geometric pattern for the BMW M4 GT4 with cleanly cut squares and large typography. The eye must first understand the pattern before it sees the shape of the vehicle at second glance"

Vivid Momentum
Simon Haynes, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Design, Goodwood
The designer from Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ coachbuilding division has revived and reinterpreted a legendary paint scheme for BMW racing cars from the 1970s and reinterpreted it as “Vivid Momentum”: "This task was very different from what I do in my normal job, but I was able to bring my passion for motorsport to bear. My design is a tribute to one of BMW's most striking racing designs, which stood out from the other designs of its time. The concentric rings play with the original disc motif and radiate from the front wheel to the rear. In addition, the vehicle has a semitone structure that changes from a solid black to an intense metallic red from front to back. This highlights the sense of speed and gives the vehicle a forward facing attitude"

The Power of Four
Wesselka Mandowa-Maier, Designworks, Los AngelesThe Bulgarian-born designer, who after ten years in the service of MINI Design has been working in the Designworks Studio in California since 2019, was inspired by the classic BMW M colours light blue, dark blue and red, which stand for power and dynamics: "I have named my design 'The Power of Four'. I was inspired by the numbers in the name of the BMW M4 GT4, which also stands for the unimaginable power the engine puts on the race track. And only connected to the track by the four wheels. To support this idea in the design, all four views of the vehicle are abstractly divided by four. The classic BMW M colours are vibrant and powerful and give the vehicle additional energy."

Fluid Power
Li Tianyuan, BMW i Design, Munich
The exterior designer from BMW i relied on influences from his home country for his design:  "My main inspiration was calligraphy and Chinese painting with the contrast of black and white and the perfect balance between elegance and power. The design of the vehicle is asymmetrical. Two goldfish, which in China stand for perfection and happiness, but also symbolise powerful movement with their caudal fins, swim in a circle around the driver from above and place him in the centre. In addition to the Arabic numeral 4, this number is also applied to the bodywork as a traditional Chinese calligraphy mark. This stands for the tolerance and openness of a great brand like BMW towards the entire world’s culture and at the same time gives the M4 GT4 a very special, timeless and unforgettable appearance."

Munich. With numerous innovations in the areas of drive, brake and suspension systems, the new BMW M3 Sedan and the new BMW M4 Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 10.8 l/100 km [26.2 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 248 g/km) and the new BMW M3 Competition Sedan and the new BMW M4 Competition Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 10.2 l/100 km [27.7 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 234 g/km) will soon set new benchmarks in the segment of high-performance sedans and coupes. Their newly developed, straight six-cylinder engines are performance-enhanced vs. the previous generation and provide the basis for this. Two performance levels are available: In addition to a 353 kW/480 hp variant with 6-speed manual shift, each model will also go on sale as a Competition model delivering 375 kW/510 hp and featuring an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic. The M TwinPower Turbo Technology and the high-revving concept featured by the power units impress with performance characteristics derived directly from motor racing – without restricting the traditionally high level of everyday suitability of BMW M models. In order to emphasise the motor racing DNA of the new BMW M3 Sedan and the new BMW M4 Coupé even more, an extensive range of M Performance Parts will also be available at market launch of the two models in March of next year. They facilitate advanced individualisation of the vehicles’ striking design and further enhancement of their dynamic handling qualities. 

The high-quality range of accessories was developed in collaboration with the BMW M GmbH based on experience gained on the world’s racetracks and the extensive know-how of their motorsport specialists. The components, which have been specifically aligned to the character of both the new BMW M3 Sedan and the new BMW M4 Coupé, sharpen their extremely sporty appearance even further. Moreover, for the most part, they also fulfil functional requirements in terms of lightweight construction and aerodynamics – thus noticeably enhancing the excellent dynamic characteristics of both high-performance models.

Suspension and sound even more closely linked to motorsport.
A perfect example of how M Performance Parts usually not only further sharpen a car’s looks but also its performance is demonstrated by the M Performance silencer system, titanium. The lightweight exhaust system with flap control, developed specifically for M models and based on experience gained from motor racing, weighs around five kilograms less than the mass-produced component and also provides for an even sportier driving experience thanks to optimised exhaust gas routing. The highly emotionalising sound, which is similar to that experienced in motorsport, has been adapted to the individual driving programs. The four titanium, ceramic-coated tailpipe trims provide for an unmistakeably striking appearance. 

The M Performance sports suspension was developed and tuned on various different racetracks and is also directly associated with motor racing. The coilover suspension permits an infinitely variable reduction of ride height of between five and twenty millimetres (recommended lowering -10 mm vs. the M base model). With unchanged damper adjustment, the driver benefits from a lower centre of gravity, reduced rolling movement and even higher cornering speeds. In addition to increased dynamics, lowering also enhances the sporty looks.

Directly derived from the BMW Motorsport long-distance brake pads, M Performance sports brake pads guarantee shorter braking distances, better response characteristics and high thermal resistance. Drivers in particular who frequently also wish to explore the performance potential of their BMW M3 Sedan or M4 Coupé on the racetrack, will be thrilled, among other things, with the vehicle’s exceptionally dynamic steering behaviour when braking before a bend compared to the standard configuration.

High-tech material carbon sharpens looks even further.
The high-tech material carbon is characterised by a high degree of rigidity and stiffness whilst being extremely light.  Consequently, carbon fibre reinforced plastic is used above all in many areas of motorsport, where visible carbon components fascinate with the mesh structure that is so characteristic of this material. Not least for this reason, M Performance exterior components exude a high degree of motorsport atmosphere – and are perfectly suitable for effectively sharpening the sporty looks of the BMW M3 Sedan and the BMW M4 Coupé even further. For example, the M Performance carbon front attachment, the M Performance carbon front splitter and the carbon M Performance Aero Flicks provide for a particularly striking look. Viewed from the side, the M Performance carbon air breathers set an eye-catching accent and M Performance carbon side skirt trims make the vehicle appear longer. At the rear, the M Performance carbon rear winglets and the distinctive M Performance carbon rear spoiler add the perfect finishing touches to the vehicle’s appearance.

All this is topped by the M Performance carbon rear diffuser combined with the M Performance titanium silencer system and the M Performance titanium tailpipe trim module with ceramic coating and black matt finish. The M Performance carbon/titanium tailpipe trims also offer a sporty option for individualising the standard exhaust system of the BMW M3 Sedan and the BMW M4 Coupé. The high-performance models can be customised even further with the M Performance Motorsport foiling. The decor set contains adhesive foils for each side in the three BMW M colours blue, red and purple and is tailor-made to match the vehicle geometry. 

Forged wheels in sizes of up to 21 inches and mixed tyres.
At the time of market launch, the range of M Performance Parts for the new BMW M3 Sedan and the new BMW M4 Coupé comprises two complete sets of summer wheels. Entry level is the M Performance Y-spoke forged wheel 963M in Frozen Gunmetal Grey with M Performance lettering and mixed tyres, 19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear. It convinces with its unique geometry and guarantees a high degree of stiffness and low weight as well as reduced air resistance particularly at high speeds. Highlight of the wheel range for the summer is the BMW M Performance cross-spoke forged wheel 1000M in Gold Bronze matt or Jet-Black matt with M Performance lettering. The wheels are available exclusively from M Performance Parts in the sizes 20 inch at the front and 21 inch at the rear.

Perfect traction in winter: snow chain-capable 19-inch wheel set.
M Performance Parts also offers the snow chain-capable, 19-inch double spoke complete winter wheel 829M for safe driving on snow and ice. The rim, which is finished in black matt, is ideal for coping with winter conditions and is particularly easy to clean. We recommend M Performance Tyre Bags for optimal storage and convenient transportation of wheel sets currently not fitted. They are suitable for 17-inch to 22-inch complete wheels, protect them from dirt and guarantee clear allocation of the tyres thanks to their respective markings. Moreover, with their distinctive M Performance design they emit a generous portion of motor racing flair in the home garage.

Carbon and Alcantara enhance motorsport flair in the interior.
Customers are also able to further upgrade the sporty and comfortable interior of their BMW M3 Sedan or BMW M4 Coupé in many ways, both visually and functionally, using motorsport-inspired components from the range of M Performance Parts. As soon as the door is opened, the M Performance doorsill with carbon insert and M Performance coloured lettering conveys unadulterated motor racing flair. Furthermore, thanks to M Performance lettering, a flag with M colours and edging in leather look including decorative stitching in contrasting colours, the perfectly matching M Performance front and rear floor mats convey the extremely dynamic exterior design into the vehicle’s interior. M Performance carbon interior trims also contribute towards this. They inspire with a fascinating combination of open-pored, matt-coated carbon and elegant Alcantara. They are manufactured by hand using a complex process, so each of them is a unique one-off. M Performance Alcantara kneepads on the centre console round off the range of interior features.

The M Performance Pro steering wheel is characterised by the use of the material Alcantara, which is very common in motor racing not least due to its grip properties. Therefore, the pronounced Alcantara gripping area with large thumb rests and special lining offers the driver maximum grip and a highly direct steering feel. Further motorsport-inspired features include the blue centre marker in the 12 o’clock position and a handstitched M seam finished in M colours. In addition to the standard leather-covered steering wheel trim, the optional M Performance steering wheel trim Carbon/Alcantara and, optionally, the M Performance steering wheel Carbon/Leather each with M Performance lettering are available. The M Performance steering wheel can be further upgraded with M Performance carbon shift paddles covered with an open-pored carbon fabric instead of the standard chrome surface.

The M Performance slide set for the BMW LED door projectors guarantees eye-catching effects when entering and exiting the vehicle. When the door is opened, the BMW M logo and other M Performance motifs are projected onto the asphalt. When locking and unlocking the vehicle, the driver is able to experience the M Performance concept both visually and by touch with the M Performance key wallet finished in high-quality Alcantara and boasting a carbon insert. The wallet is firmly connected with the car key by means of a hexagonal head screw in M Light Blue, allowing the key to be easily rotated into the wallet, protecting it from scratches and any other damage.

The M Performance Indoor Car Cover reliably protects the vehicle against soiling and scratches while it is parked in the garage. The cover, which is delivered in a practical carrier bag, is made of elastic, breathable polyester with a soft lining that is gentle on paintwork and is machine washable. The car cover fits snugly to the car body and emphasises various design features such as the double kidney grille, for example, with the coloured M logo and M Performance lettering.

• New edition of the pace-setting high-performance sports cars in the premium midsize segment:
  
  BMW M3 Sedan:
  353 kW/480 hp; acceleration [0 – 100 km/h (62 mph)]: 4.2 seconds; fuel consumption combined: 10.8 l/100 km (26.2 mpg imp); CO₂ emissions combined: 248 g/km.
  BMW M3 Competition Sedan:
  375 kW/510 hp; acceleration [0 – 100 km/h (62 mph)]: 3.9 seconds; fuel consumption combined:10.2 l/100 km (27.7 mpg imp); CO₂ emissions combined: 234 g/km.
  BMW M4 Coupé:
  353 kW/480 hp; acceleration [0 – 100 km/h (62 mph)]: 4.2 seconds; fuel consumption combined: 10.8 l/100 km (26.2 mpg imp); CO₂ emissions combined: 248 g/km.
  BMW M4 Competition Coupé:
  375 kW/510 hp; acceleration [0 – 100 km/h (62 mph)]: 3.9 seconds; fuel consumption combined: 10.2 l/100 km (27.7 mpg imp); CO₂ emissions combined: 234 g/km.
  
  
• High-performance cars with authentic allure boast cutting-edge racing-car technology and a character profile in the tradition of the original BMW M3 presented 35 years ago. Market launch from March 2021.
  
  
• New BMW M3 Sedan and new BMW M4 Coupé with unequivocally performance-focused vehicle concept. Tuning work conducted alongside testing programme for the BMW M4 GT3 racing car. Familiar M blend of dynamism, agility and precision meets everyday usability and long-distance capability.
  
  
• Extra variety in the powertrain offering. Authentic performance experience in the new BMW M3 Sedan and new BMW M4 Coupé thanks to six-speed manual gearbox not offered by any rival. BMW M3 Competition Sedan and BMW M4 Competition Coupé with eight-speed M Steptronic transmission. Competition models also available with M xDrive all-wheel-drive system for the first time, est. from summer 2021.
  
  
• Six-cylinder in-line engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology, high‑revving character, maximum 375 kW/510 hp and up to 650 Nm (479 lb-ft). Two turbochargers, optimised direct injection, cooling and oil supply adapted for track use, model-specific exhaust system with electrically operated flaps for emotionally stirring engine soundtrack.
  
  
• Model-specific six-speed manual gearbox with Gear Shift Assistant for extremely dynamic driving situations. Latest generation of the eight‑speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic and three shift programs. M xDrive links up with Active M Differential, rear-wheel-biased setup, three selectable modes: 4WD, 4WD Sport and 2WD for pure rear‑wheel drive and deactivated stability control.
  
  
• Adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled shock absorbers and M Servotronic steering with variable ratio are fitted as standard. M‑specific front- and rear-axle modifications. New integrated braking system with two settings for pedal feel and response. M Compound brakes as standard, M Carbon ceramic brakes optional.
  
  
• Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including M Dynamic Mode and, for the first time, integrated wheel slip limitation and M Traction Control adjustable through ten stages.
  
  
• Forged M light-alloy wheels – front: 18-inch, rear 19-inch (Competition models with M xDrive – front: 19-inch, rear 20-inch). Performance tyres optional.
  
  
• Extremely stiff body structure and chassis mounting thanks to measures including model-specific bracing elements for the engine compartment, a front axle subframe with aluminium shear panel, underfloor bracing elements and a rear axle subframe with a rigid connection to the body.
  
  
• Two body variants with their own individual exterior designs and an emotionally engaging aesthetic. BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupé with performance-oriented body features: M-specific version of large, vertical BMW kidney grille, powerfully sculpted wheel arches with eye‑catching M gills, prominent side sill extensions with attachments to the front and rear aprons, carbon-fibre roof with aerodynamically optimised fins, plus rear spoiler and familiar M tailpipe pairs. New, exclusive exterior paint finishes. M Carbon exterior package and BMW M Performance Parts available as options.
  
  
• Ergonomically optimised sports-car cockpit with M-specific displays and controls. Newly developed M sport seats and fine-grain Merino leather trim with extended features fitted as standard; optionally with seat ventilation. New M Carbon bucket seats with structure-based design available as an option.
  
  
• M-specific control/operating concept with Setup button for direct access to the settings for the engine, chassis, steering and braking system – and, depending on the model and specification, also M xDrive, Gear Shift Assistant and traction control. Two individually composed overall setups can be activated using M buttons on the steering wheel.
  
  
• M Mode button enables the intervention thresholds of the driver assistance systems and the displays in the instrument cluster and optional Head-Up Display to be configured individually. ROAD and SPORT settings are available as standard; additional TRACK mode for track driving added when M Drive Professional is specified.
  
  
• Premiere of M Drive Professional (including M Drift Analyser, M Laptimer and M Traction Control), for a particularly intense performance experience on the race track.
  
  
• Significantly expanded selection of driver assistance systems. Park Distance Control, Front Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning and Speed Limit Info fitted as standard. Options include Driving Assistant Professional with Steering and Lane Control Assistant, Active Navigation, Emergency Lane Assistant, Parking Assistant with Reversing Assistant, BMW Drive Recorder and BMW Head-Up Display with M-specific displays.
  
  
• BMW Live Cockpit Professional with fully digital display grouping, BMW Maps navigation system and BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant as standard.
  
  
• M Race Track Package available for the first time reduces vehicle weight by around 25 kilograms thanks to features including M Carbon ceramic brakes, special M light-alloy wheels and M Carbon bucket seats.

Munich. World premiere on the Red Bull Ring: For the first time, the BMW M GmbH presented its two icons designed for the road and the racetrack side by side, the prototypes of the new BMW M4 Coupe (combined fuel consumption: 10.9 – 10.5 l/100 km*; combined CO₂ emissions: 249 – 239 g/km*, provisional figures) and the new BMW M4 GT3. During the run-up to the MotoGP “BMW M Grand Prix of Styria”, the two vehicles were presented in a camouflage look designed specifically for this purpose, as their final design will not be revealed until a later date.

“I am very pleased we are able to present both the new BMW M4 Coupe and the new BMW M4 GT3 together here. As title sponsor of the ‘BMW M Grand Prix of Styria’ and long-term partner of MotoGP organiser Dorna Sports, I cannot think of a better place to hold this special premiere. The BMW M4 Coupe and its motorsport counterpart BMW M4 GT3 are the icons of the BMW M GmbH and prime examples of the technology transfer from motorsport to series production – and back again. From the outset, both vehicles were developed parallel to each other, so they both have the same genes,” says Markus Flasch, CEO of the BMW M GmbH, who himself completed the first laps on the Red Bull Ring in the BMW M4 Coupe.

Like the new BMW M3 Sedan and all other current high-performance automobiles from the BMW M GmbH, the new BMW M4 Coupe will be available in two performance versions: Apart from a variant with 353 kW/480 hp and
a 6-speed manual transmission, a Competition model with 375 kW/510 hp and an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic will also be on offer in each case.

The core component shared by all BMW M4s is the newly developed straight six-cylinder engine featuring M TwinPower Turbo technology and a high-revving concept. From the outset, the high-performance-power plant was developed on the basis of performance characteristics taken directly from motorsport. Not only will the BMW M Customer Racing Teams, who will be deploying the BMW M4 GT3 in numerous GT series worldwide, benefit from this. It also raises the standard of driving pleasure for BMW M4 road-legal vehicles to a new level.

For Philipp Eng, the person driving the BMW M4 GT3, the ride around the Austrian circuit was a welcome foretaste of the year ahead: “I can’t wait to take the BMW M4 GT3 onto the starting grid,” says the Austrian who will be participating in the DTM with the ZF BMW M4 DTM. “The BMW M4 GT3 will already take part in its first race next year and will be able to prove how it performs under competitive conditions. I am sure that it has what it takes to continue the long-standing and successful tradition of BMW M vehicles.”

From 2022 and following selected racing events in 2021, the BMW M4 GT3 will finally replace the BMW M6 GT3 as the top-of-the-range model in BMW’s customer sport offering. Since 2016, the BMW M6 GT3 has been part of the BMW M Motorsport vehicle portfolio, already winning the Spa-Franchorchamps 24 hours during its debut year, only to surpass this success with a double victory two years later.

However, before the new BMW M4 Coupe is actually released to the road and the racetrack without special camouflage design, final intensive tests still have to be performed. The official world premiere is planned for September 2020. But one thing is already certain: One of the MotoGP pilots battling for points and placements just a few days after the appearance of the BMW M4 Coupe on the Red Bull Ring, will have the pleasure of driving an icon of the BMW M GmbH. Because the winner of the “BMW M Grand Prix of Styria” being held from 21^st to 23^rd August will be honoured with an exclusive BMW M4 Coupe of the model generation 2021.

* All figures relating to performance, fuel/electric power consumption and CO₂ emissions are provisional.

The fuel consumption and CO₂ emission figures are determined according to the European Regulation (EC) 715/2007 in the version applicable. The figures refer to a vehicle with basic configuration in Germany. The range shown considers the different sizes of the selected wheels/tyres and the selected items of optional equipment, and may vary during configuration.

The values are based on the new WLTP test cycle and are translated back into NEDC-equivalent values in order to ensure comparability between the vehicles. With respect to these vehicles, for vehicle-related taxes or other duties based (at least inter alia) on CO₂ emissions, the CO₂ values may differ from the values stated here (depending on national legislation).

Correct as at: 01.06.2019

Further information on official fuel consumption figures and specific CO₂ emission values of new passenger cars is included in the following guideline: 'Leitfaden über den Kraftstoffverbrauch, die CO2-Emissionen und den Stromverbrauch neuer Personenkraftwagen' (Guide to the fuel economy, CO₂ emissions and electric power consumption of new passenger cars), which can be obtained free of charge from all dealerships, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at https://www.dat.de/co2/.

Munich. With the forthcoming races on the Nürburgring the current German Touring Car Masters (DTM) season will finally reach its decisive phase. Moreover, during the DTM weekend being held from 13 to 15 September 2019, visitors can expect a further attraction. The BMW M4 Edition ///M Heritage (combined fuel consumption: 10.0 – 9.3 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 227 – 213 g/km) will make its world debut on the legendary racetrack in the Eifel. The special edition of the BMW M4 Coupe, which forms the basis of the BMW M4 DTM deployed by BMW M Motorsport, fascinates with an exclusive exterior and interior look reflecting the impressive tradition of the high-performance racing cars. The BMW M4 Edition ///M Heritage, powered by a 331 kW/450 hp straight six-cylinder engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology will be produced and sold worldwide between November 2019 and April 2020 as an edition model limited to 750 units.

Light blue, dark blue and red – these are the colours by which motorsport fans immediately recognize the BMW M GmbH logo. Immediately after the founding of the BMW Motorsport GmbH in 1972, the characteristic colours already adorned these racing cars, which were based on the BMW 3.0 CSL and became highly successful in touring car racing. Since then, the distinctive stripes in the three classic BMW M GmbH colours have stood for exhilarating performance and exclusive design also on the road. The BMW M4 Edition///M Heritage takes up this unmistakable colour combination on unique exterior and interior design features. There is a choice of the three body colours Laguna Seca Blue, Velvet Blue metallic and Imola Red available for the edition model. Furthermore, the two-seater’s carbon-fibre reinforced plastic roof boasts a striking decorative strip in the BMW M colours, which is integrated into the CFRP composite at the factory using a special manufacturing process. Likewise unique are the forged, 20-inch M light alloy wheels in a star spoke design featuring the colour Orbit Grey matt and fitted with mixed tyres. 

The interior of the edition model is also characterised by an exclusive selection of colours and materials. The spectrum of equipment includes model-specific full leather M seats in a bicolour design and with prominent openings within the area of the seatbacks. Each seat colour is oriented towards the exterior paint and is complemented by partly bicoloured contrast stitching. In conjunction with the exterior colours Laguna Seca Blue and Velvet Blue metallic, the seats come in Silverstone/Black with turquoise stitching or Velvet Blue and Orange respectively. With the exterior finish Imola Red, the seat colours Red and Black correspond with yellow and red contrast stitching.

The both appealing and exclusive colour scheme continues with interior carbon trim strips designed exclusively for the BMW M4 Edition ///M Heritage and whose CFRP structure incorporates the stripe design featuring the three characteristic M colours. Both the interior trim strips and the door sills bear emblems with the imprints “Edition ///M Heritage” and “1/750” as an indication of the limited edition of this model. The lettering “///M Heritage” – in turquoise, orange or red respectively – is also to be found on the front headrests. 

The BMW M4 Edition ///M Heritage offers a particularly exclusive opportunity to experience the handling characteristics of a high-performance sports car marked by dynamics, agility and precision. At the same time, with this model, the BMW M GmbH is continuing the tradition of exclusive special editions, a tradition that has been cultivated now for several model generations. They reflect the enthusiasm for exceptional sporting successes or awareness of the history of selected models, of which many have become much sought-after collectors’ items in the course of time. 

Expressive paint finishes and a characteristic interior design were already hallmarks of the BMW M3 Edition of the year 2009. At that time, with the variants Alpine White, Black, Dakar Yellow and Monte Carlo Blue there were as many as four body colours available for the edition model based on the fourth generation of the BMW M3. In the year 2012, BMW Motorsport’s successful comeback in the DTM triggered the production of the BMW M3 DTM Champion Edition. During the first season following an almost 20-year break, BMW came first in the manufacturer’s rating, with the BMW Team Schnitzer winning the team classification. Moreover, the Canadian Bruno Spengler seized the driver’s title. Only 54 units of the edition model were produced – one for each racing victory BMW was able to clinch in the DTM by then. And there were several more in the years that followed. In the 2016 season, it was the German BMW Motorsport works driver Marco Wittmann in particular who was hard to beat and who eventually became the new DTM champion. The BMW M4 DTM Champion Edition, which was limited to 200 units, was brought to market in his honour. The strongly racing-oriented special edition not only exhibited exclusive design features but, above all, was provided with numerous innovations that had previously helped the 368 kW/500 hp BMW M4 GTS achieve its outstanding performance.

The same year, BMW M GmbH also presented an edition model of the BMW M3 Sedan in memory of the BMW M3, which had made its debut three decades previously. The special edition 30 Years M3 was finished exclusively in the colour Macao Blue metallic and produced in a limited quantity of 500 units. The latest example to date of a fascinating combination of performance and exclusiveness is the BMW M4 Convertible Edition 30 Years. This open-top high performance sports car was produced in a limited edition of 300 and presented in 2018 – three decades after the premiere of the first-generation BMW M3 Convertible. This edition model also featured exclusive paint finishes – namely Macao Blue metallic and Mandarin II uni – and a specific interior design, providing for unique and aesthetic driving pleasure both on country roads and on the racetrack.

Munich. 30 years ago, the BMW M GmbH complemented its model range for the first time with an open-top high-performance automobile. Just in time for the beginning of the summer of 1988, the BMW M3 Convertible offered motorsport fans the possibility to enjoy also in the open air the fascination of a sports car designed for everyday use, but with racetrack-proven engine and suspension technology. The current successor, the BMW M4 Convertible (combined fuel consumption: 9.5 – 8.7 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 218 – 203 g/km), is the latest interpretation of this vehicle concept. This model’s successful tradition and exclusiveness are now expressed in concentrated form in the BMW M4 Convertible Edition 30 Jahre.

The edition model is being produced in a limited quantity of 300 vehicles and brought to the road featuring the M Competition Package. The open-top four-seater enthuses with 331 kW/450 hp, an M Sport exhaust system, adaptive M suspension with specific SPORT mode and an extremely sporty configuration of the stability control system DSC and the Active M differential. Specially developed design and equipment features provide for the exclusiveness of both the exterior and interior. 

Unique equipment features, distinctive appearance.

There is a choice of two tradition-steeped body colours for the BMW M4 Convertible Edition 30 Jahre. Macao Blue metallic gives reference to the open-top high-performance car’s debut 3 decades ago. Mandarin II uni is reminiscent of the colour Dakar Yellow, which was available for the second generation of the BMW M3 Convertible.

Standard features for the edition model include BMW Individual High Gloss Shadow Line trims for the BMW kidney grille surround, the M side gills, the model lettering and the forged M light alloys boasting a star-spoke design. The 20-inch wheels come in the colour Orbit Grey matt offered exclusively for the edition model. 

The Merino full leather trim, the colour scheme of which matches the desired vehicle body paintwork, characterises the interior of the BMW M4 Convertible Edition 30 Jahre. In conjunction with the exterior colour Macao Blue metallic, there is a choice of the two-tone colour combinations Black/Fjord Blue and Black/Silverstone. The exclusive features also comprise corresponding contrast stitching on the headrests as well as M floor mats with piping in the respective contrasting colour. Black interior surfaces with yellow contrast stitching are offered in conjunction with Mandarin II uni, whilst interior trim strips in the version Carbon Fibre come as standard for all edition model variants.

Moreover, the lettering “30 Jahre Edition” is imprinted both on the doorsills and the headrests. A signet on the interior trim strip on the passenger side dashboard area boasts, in addition to the lettering “30 Jahre Edition”, the number “1/300”, giving reference to the limited series.

Tradition-steeped combination of high performance and open-air driving pleasure. 

The BMW M4 Convertible Edition 30 Jahre reflects the combination of sportiness and open-air driving pleasure that has now matured for the duration of five model generations. A racetrack-proven vehicle concept and technology derived directly from motorsport had already formed the basis for open-top driving pleasure in the first BMW M3 Convertible.

The 2.3-litre, four-cylinder engine with four-valve technology, catalytic converter and 143 kW/195 hp, unique suspension technology and an aerodynamically optimised body including prominent wheel arches were derived from the two-door sedan, which had been developed explicitly for use in touring car racing. Roberto Ravaglia, Wilfried Vogt and Eric van de Poele had won the world, European and German touring car championships with their BMW M3 as early as during the 1987 season. The production version of the BMW M3 also got off to a fast and furious start. When the first BMW M3 Convertibles were put on the road in the summer of 1988, more than 10,000 sedan versions had already been sold instead of the 5,000 originally planned for homologation purposes. With 786 units built, the BMW M3 Convertible of the first generation was the most exclusive variant of the successful model. It was produced until 1991, ultimately with an engine output that had been increased to 158 kW/215 hp, rendering the open-top four-seater one of the fastest vehicles of its kind.

The second generation of the BMW M3 Convertible followed in 1994 and offered, in addition to pure understatement, also an advanced safety system. A 210 kW/286 hp straight six-cylinder power unit provided for a tremendously refreshing open-air driving experience. Two years later, the further developed version of the straight six-cylinder engine delivered an output that had been increased to an even more impressive 236 kW/321 hp. Always onboard – the BMW M3 Convertible’s innovative rollover protection system. Two protection bars, which were located at the rear behind the headrests, extended automatically if the sensors had detected the danger of a possible rollover and, together with the extremely stiff windshield, offered optimized passenger protection. 

The BMW M3 Convertible entered the 21st century with the third model generation and a new straight six-cylinder engine. The high-performance convertible launched in 2001 appeared noticeably flat, wide and powerful and was accelerated by a 252 kW/343 hp power unit. In addition to the high-revving engine concept, the variable M differential lock, compound brakes and sports seats with integrated seatbelts provided for an authentic open-air racing feeling.

For the power unit of the fourth BMW M3 Convertible launched in 2008, BMW M GmbH engineers had transferred the high-revving concept to a V8 engine. Besides a maximum output of 309 kW/420 hp, above all, the sustained power delivery of the new engine proved most impressive. This was complemented by the unmistakable sound of the eight-cylinder power unit, which was clearly perceivable particularly when driving with the top down. The BMW M3 Convertible of the fourth generation featured an electro-hydraulically retractable hardtop. The new roof construction made it possible to further enhance not only the racetrack suitability of the open-top high-performance sports car, but also its suitability for everyday use all year round.

The launch of the fifth generation in 2014 was also associated with a change of the model designation to BMW M4 Convertible. Power of the current model generation is delivered by a straight six-cylinder engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology and high-revving characteristics. Its spontaneous thrust, which is available right up into the high engine speed range, and its reduced weight compared to the predecessor model, is perfectly complemented by the optional 7-speed M dual clutch transmission with Drivelogic and the Active M differential. Hence, the BMW M4 Convertible offers the ideal prerequisites for maximum performance on the racetrack and supreme driving pleasure in everyday conditions.

The fuel consumption and CO2 emissions figures shown were determined according to the European Regulation (EC) 715/2007 in the version applicable at the time of type approval. The figures refer to a vehicle with basic configuration in Germany and the range shown considers the different size of the selected wheels and tires. The values of the vehicles labelled with (**) are already based on the new WLTP regulation and are translated back into NEDC-equivalent values in order to ensure the comparison between the vehicles. With respect to these vehicles, for vehicle-related taxes or other duties based (at least inter alia) on CO2 emissions, the CO2 values may differ to the values stated here (depending on national legislation).

The CO2 efficiency specifications are determined according to Directive 1999/94/EC and the Pkw-EnVKV, and based (for classification) on the fuel consumption and CO2 values as per the NEDC cycle.

Further information on official fuel consumption figures and specific CO2 emission values of new passenger cars is included in the following guideline: “Leitfaden über Kraftstoffverbrauch, die CO2-Emissionen und den Stromverbrauch neuer Personenkraftwagen” (Guideline for fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and electric power consumption of new passenger cars), which can be obtained free of charge from all dealerships and at https://www.dat.de/en/offers/publications/guideline-for-fuel-cons

Short version M GmbH is presenting another exclusive limited-run special-edition model in the shape of the new BMW M4 CS (fuel consumption combined: 8.4 l/100 km [33.6 mpg imp]*; CO2 emissions combined: 197 g/km*). The M4 CS fills the gap in the line-up between the M4 Coupe with Competition Package and the uncompromisingly track-focused BMW M4 GTS. With its accentuated sporting presence, the new M4 CS continues the decades-long tradition of successful M special editions which began in 1988 with the E30 BMW M3 Evolution. The new BMW M4 CS will be built at the original BMW plant in Munich.

The M4 CS also sees BMW M GmbH introducing a new nomenclature for its models. Positioned above the standard M models will be the performance-boosted Competition versions. Then come the CS special-edition models, a notch higher still. Positioned on top are the performance-maximising “brand shapers” which display a clear motor sport or club sport character but are also fully road legal.

The 3.0-litre high-performance engine raises the output of the M4 with Competition Package by 10 horsepower, to 460 hp. State-of-the-art M TwinPower Turbo technology allows the M4 CS to dip below the four-second mark for the 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) sprint, stopping the clock at 3.9 seconds. The top speed of the M4 CS, which comes as standard with the M Driver’s Package, is electronically limited to 280 km/h (174 mph). With its two mono-scroll turbochargers, charge air cooler, High Precision Injection, VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and Double-VANOS fully variable camshaft timing, the six-cylinder in-line engine and takes a clear and consistent aim at the higher echelons of performance, but is equally committed to developing significant torque from low engine speeds and achieving high levels of efficiency (fuel consumption combined: 8.4 l/100 km [33.6 mpg imp]*; CO2 emissions combined: 197 g/km*).

The new BMW M4 CS is equipped as standard with the seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission (M DCT) with Drivelogic. This cutting-edge transmission has a separate oil cooler and enables both automated gear changes and manual interventions using the shift paddles on the steering wheel. It changes gears in fractions of a second with no interruption in the flow of power, but employs a long seventh gear to keep revs low and minimise fuel consumption over longer motorway journeys.

The suspension of the new BMW M4 CS largely mirrors that of the M4 with Competition Package. The links and wheel carriers at both the front and rear axles are made from forged aluminium and are therefore extremely light. That keeps the unsprung masses low and benefits driving dynamics. The M4 CS is fitted as standard with Adaptive M suspension whose geometry has been tuned to deliver optimised performance on both the road and track. The new BMW M4 CS has also been honed on the most demanding test track of them all for high-performance sports cars: the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife. Its ’Ring lap time of 7 min. 38 sec. puts the CS in super-sports car territory.

Ensuring the best possible grip in all driving conditions are the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system – which includes M Dynamic Mode – and the Active M Differential. The control systems for the Adaptive M suspension, DSC and Active M Differential have been modified to suit the dynamic requirements of the BMW M4 CS, as has the set-up of the electromechanical steering. The driver has the option of adjusting the steering and suspension settings to their personal preferences or the demands of the route at hand. To this end, they can select one of three driving modes (Comfort, Sport and Sport+) at the touch of a button. While Comfort mode is particularly well suited to poor road conditions, city driving and short journeys, Sport will be the mode of choice for keen drivers looking to push on over twisty country roads. And for those heading to the track with their BMW M4 CS, Sport+ mode will pave the way for the fastest lap times. Sport+ fettles all the relevant systems to deliver the best possible dynamics. Should the driver get a little too excited, DSC will intervene in an instant. However, in M Dynamic Mode (MDM) it will also allow controlled drifts.

Also very much at home on the race track are the light-alloy wheels (front: 9 J x 19, rear: 10 J x 20) designed exclusively for the M4 CS and fitted as standard with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres (front: 265/35 R 19, rear: 285/30 R 20). These semi-slick cup tyres, which are also road-legal, provide unbeatable grip and supreme lateral stability at high track speeds, as well as optimum traction out of hairpins. The M4 CS can also be ordered with Michelin Sport road tyres at no extra cost.

The interior of the new BMW M4 CS sets out squarely to create a sporting ambience. Lightweight M sports seats trimmed in leather/Alcantara get the ball rolling and the dynamic flavour extends all the way to the door panel trim made from compacted natural fibres and featuring pull loops. The bonnet – with its characteristic air outlet rearwards of the powerdome – and roof are made from the lightweight, extremely rigid and high-tech material carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP).

The generous use of leather and Alcantara allows the M4 CS to create a compelling and well-resolved ambience brimming with sporting intent and undeniable class. No M4 CS driver will need to compromise on the nicer things in life. Indeed, among the standard features on board are automatic climate control, a version of the BMW HiFi system Professional adapted to the signature acoustic demands of the M4 CS and the Navigation system Professional.

True to form, the BMW M GmbH designers have given the new M4 CS looks that reflect the car’s sporting intent. The signature feature of its prominent front end, complete with cutting-edge twin LED headlights, is the front apron with large, three-section air intakes. These serve up feed an ample supply of cooling air to both the high-performance engine and the fade-resistant M compound brakes with four-piston callipers at the front and two-piston callipers at the rear. The new model-specific front splitter was made from exposed carbon fibre exclusively for the M4 CS special edition. In the interests of aerodynamic efficiency, it teams up with the rear diffuser carried over for the BMW M4 GTS and the likewise newly designed, exposed carbon-fibre Gurney spoiler lip on the boot lid to minimise dynamic lift. Innovative rear lights with OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) technology introduced by BMW M GmbH exclusively for the M4 CS and M4 GTS break new ground, while the front splitter, Gurney and rear diffuser, together with the long CFRP bonnet, flowing, coupe-like roofline, elegantly sporty M exterior mirrors and muscular wheel arches, allow the new BMW M4 CS to cut an extremely dynamic figure, even when it’s standing still. The BMW M4 CS will be priced at EUR 116,900.

* Fuel consumption and CO2 figures were calculated based on the EU test cycle and may vary depending on the tyre format.

Further information on official fuel consumption figures, specific CO2 emission values and the electric power consumption of new passenger cars is included in the following guideline: “Leitfaden über Kraftstoffverbrauch, die CO2-Emissionen und den Stromverbrauch neuer Personenkraftwagen” (Guideline for fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and electric power consumption of new passenger cars), which can be obtained from all dealerships, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at http://www.dat.de/en/offers/publications/guideline-for-fuel-consumption.html.

• BMW M Division will present the coveted BMW M Award for the 15^th time at the end of the season.
• The 2017 prize car: the exclusive BMW M4 CS (combined consumption: 8.4 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 197 g/km) in San Marino Blue Metallic.
• Car unveiled at the Spanish Grand Prix in Jerez de la Frontera.

Jerez de la Frontera. BMW M Division once again presented a real highlight - the prize car for the BMW M Award in 2017: the new BMW M4 CS. The special edition is available as of July 2017 and is set to bring motorsport to the streets, in the proverbial sense. As such, the new BMW M4 CS is the perfect prize car for the fastest qualifier in MotoGP. The BMW M Award is celebrating reaching a minor milestone this season: BMW M Division will present the coveted prize as the long-term partner of MotoGP promoter Dorna Sports for the 15^th time.

Since 2003, the MotoGP rider with the best qualifying results has been recognised at the end of a season with an exclusive and customised BMW M automobile. The car for the 2017 winner, the new BMW M4 CS in San Marino Blue Metallic, was unveiled today at the Spanish Grand Prix in Jerez de la Frontera.

“The presentation of the prize car for the BMW M Award in Jerez de la Frontera is a MotoGP tradition,” said Pau Serracanta, Managing Director of the Commercial Department at Dorna Sports, at the unveiling. “It is fascinating to see how BMW M Division manages to outdo itself every year. The new BMW M4 CS follows on seamlessly from the fantastic prize cars we have been treated to in previous years. It is a prime example of the technological expertise and innovative spirit, for which we have valued BMW M as a partner for almost two decades.”

“We are proud to be celebrating a milestone this year with the BMW M Award. The fact that we are presenting the prize for the 15th time goes to show status this award enjoys within the MotoGP family,” said Axel Mittler, Head of Cooperation MotoGP at BMW M Division. “We are delighted to be able to present the latest highlight in our product range as this year’s prize car, in the form of the BMW M4 CS. The BMW M4 CS is an exclusive, limited special edition with a clear focus on dynamics and sportiness. We are confident that it will delight the winner of the BMW M Award. We have our fingers crossed for all the MotoGP riders and look forward to seeing who receives the new BMW M4 CS at the end of the season.”

The new BMW M4 CS combines unique motorsport genes with road capability and is the embodiment of pure dynamics. Its powerful M TwinPower Turbo inline six-cylinder engine, which generates 460 hp and 600 Nm of torque, allows outstanding performance across the full range of engine speeds (combined consumption: 8.4 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 197 g/km). A host of other high-performance components contribute to the excellent driving dynamics of the new BMW M4 CS, including the Active M differential, an M double-clutch transmission with Drivelogic and a particularly athletic design for extremely quick changes between the seven gears without losing any time, and Cup tyres.

The consistent use of lightweight materials, both outside and inside, reduces the weight of the car and optimises the throttle response and agility. The exclusive alloy wheels on the BMW M4 CS are inspired by motorsport, while the innovative OLED rear lights are a new design feature. The athletic appearance of the BMW M4 CS continues inside the car – from the lightweight M sport seats in anthracite-coloured Alcantara leather to the M Alcantara steering wheel and many more exquisite details.

The BMW M Award forms a part of BMW M’s long-term commitment as “Official Car of MotoGP”. Just like the points system for the races, riders at each Grand Prix weekend are awarded points relative to their positions in qualifying. The rider with the most points at the end of the season wins the BMW M Award. Marc Márquez is the record holder after winning the BMW M Award four times in a row. After the four qualifying sessions held so far in the current 2017 season, the Spaniard is in the lead again. Valentino Rossi and Casey Stoner both have three BMW M Awards to their name. Jorge Lorenzo has earned the coveted title of top qualifier twice so far. Sete Gibernau and Nicky Hayden have both won once.

The partnership between BMW M Division and Dorna Sports dates back to 1999. At the centre of the activities is the provision of the BMW M fleet. 2017 is BMW M’s 19^th season as “Official Car of MotoGP”. This year’s fleet of official MotoGP vehicles includes a total of six different BMW M models. Alongside the BMW M2 MotoGP Safety Car, the BMW M4 Coupé with water injection and the BMW M3 are also in action as safety cars. Two BMW X5 Ms take to the track as medical cars this season. BMW M Division provides the safety officer with a BMW M5. Two BMW S 1000 RRs, which BMW Motorrad provides as safety bikes, complete the 2017 safety car fleet.

Short version M GmbH is presenting another exclusive limited-run special-edition model in the shape of the new BMW M4 CS (fuel consumption combined: 8.4 l/100 km [33.6 mpg imp]*; CO2 emissions combined: 197 g/km*). The M4 CS fills the gap in the line-up between the M4 Coupe with Competition Package and the uncompromisingly track-focused BMW M4 GTS. With its accentuated sporting presence, the new M4 CS continues the decades-long tradition of successful M special editions which began in 1988 with the E30 BMW M3 Evolution. The new BMW M4 CS will be built at the original BMW plant in Munich.

The M4 CS also sees BMW M GmbH introducing a new nomenclature for its models. Positioned above the standard M models will be the performance-boosted Competition versions. Then come the CS special-edition models, a notch higher still. Positioned on top are the performance-maximising “brand shapers” which display a clear motor sport or club sport character but are also fully road legal.

The 3.0-litre high-performance engine raises the output of the M4 with Competition Package by 10 horsepower, to 460 hp. State-of-the-art M TwinPower Turbo technology allows the M4 CS to dip below the four-second mark for the 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) sprint, stopping the clock at 3.9 seconds. The top speed of the M4 CS, which comes as standard with the M Driver’s Package, is electronically limited to 280 km/h (174 mph). With its two mono-scroll turbochargers, charge air cooler, High Precision Injection, VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and Double-VANOS fully variable camshaft timing, the six-cylinder in-line engine and takes a clear and consistent aim at the higher echelons of performance, but is equally committed to developing significant torque from low engine speeds and achieving high levels of efficiency (fuel consumption combined: 8.4 l/100 km [33.6 mpg imp]*; CO2 emissions combined: 197 g/km*).

The new BMW M4 CS is equipped as standard with the seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission (M DCT) with Drivelogic. This cutting-edge transmission has a separate oil cooler and enables both automated gear changes and manual interventions using the shift paddles on the steering wheel. It changes gears in fractions of a second with no interruption in the flow of power, but employs a long seventh gear to keep revs low and minimise fuel consumption over longer motorway journeys.

The suspension of the new BMW M4 CS largely mirrors that of the M4 with Competition Package. The links and wheel carriers at both the front and rear axles are made from forged aluminium and are therefore extremely light. That keeps the unsprung masses low and benefits driving dynamics. The M4 CS is fitted as standard with Adaptive M suspension whose geometry has been tuned to deliver optimised performance on both the road and track. The new BMW M4 CS has also been honed on the most demanding test track of them all for high-performance sports cars: the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife. Its ’Ring lap time of 7 min. 38 sec. puts the CS in super-sports car territory.

Ensuring the best possible grip in all driving conditions are the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system – which includes M Dynamic Mode – and the Active M Differential. The control systems for the Adaptive M suspension, DSC and Active M Differential have been modified to suit the dynamic requirements of the BMW M4 CS, as has the set-up of the electromechanical steering. The driver has the option of adjusting the steering and suspension settings to their personal preferences or the demands of the route at hand. To this end, they can select one of three driving modes (Comfort, Sport and Sport+) at the touch of a button. While Comfort mode is particularly well suited to poor road conditions, city driving and short journeys, Sport will be the mode of choice for keen drivers looking to push on over twisty country roads. And for those heading to the track with their BMW M4 CS, Sport+ mode will pave the way for the fastest lap times. Sport+ fettles all the relevant systems to deliver the best possible dynamics. Should the driver get a little too excited, DSC will intervene in an instant. However, in M Dynamic Mode (MDM) it will also allow controlled drifts.

Also very much at home on the race track are the light-alloy wheels (front: 9 J x 19, rear: 10 J x 20) designed exclusively for the M4 CS and fitted as standard with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres (front: 265/35 R 19, rear: 285/30 R 20). These semi-slick cup tyres, which are also road-legal, provide unbeatable grip and supreme lateral stability at high track speeds, as well as optimum traction out of hairpins. The M4 CS can also be ordered with Michelin Sport road tyres at no extra cost.

The interior of the new BMW M4 CS sets out squarely to create a sporting ambience. Lightweight M sports seats trimmed in leather/Alcantara get the ball rolling and the dynamic flavour extends all the way to the door panel trim made from compacted natural fibres and featuring pull loops. The bonnet – with its characteristic air outlet rearwards of the powerdome – and roof are made from the lightweight, extremely rigid and high-tech material carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP).

The generous use of leather and Alcantara allows the M4 CS to create a compelling and well-resolved ambience brimming with sporting intent and undeniable class. No M4 CS driver will need to compromise on the nicer things in life. Indeed, among the standard features on board are automatic climate control, a version of the BMW HiFi system Professional adapted to the signature acoustic demands of the M4 CS and the Navigation system Professional.

True to form, the BMW M GmbH designers have given the new M4 CS looks that reflect the car’s sporting intent. The signature feature of its prominent front end, complete with cutting-edge twin LED headlights, is the front apron with large, three-section air intakes. These serve up feed an ample supply of cooling air to both the high-performance engine and the fade-resistant M compound brakes with four-piston callipers at the front and two-piston callipers at the rear. The new model-specific front splitter was made from exposed carbon fibre exclusively for the M4 CS special edition. In the interests of aerodynamic efficiency, it teams up with the rear diffuser carried over for the BMW M4 GTS and the likewise newly designed, exposed carbon-fibre Gurney spoiler lip on the boot lid to minimise dynamic lift. Innovative rear lights with OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) technology introduced by BMW M GmbH exclusively for the M4 CS and M4 GTS break new ground, while the front splitter, Gurney and rear diffuser, together with the long CFRP bonnet, flowing, coupe-like roofline, elegantly sporty M exterior mirrors and muscular wheel arches, allow the new BMW M4 CS to cut an extremely dynamic figure, even when it’s standing still. The BMW M4 CS will be priced at EUR 116,900.

* Fuel consumption and CO2 figures are provisional, were calculated as per the EU test cycle and may vary depending on the tyre format.

Further information on official fuel consumption figures, specific CO2 emission values and the electric power consumption of new passenger cars is included in the following guideline: “Leitfaden über Kraftstoffverbrauch, die CO2-Emissionen und den Stromverbrauch neuer Personenkraftwagen” (Guideline for fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and electric power consumption of new passenger cars), which can be obtained from all dealerships, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at http://www.dat.de/en/offers/publications/guideline-for-fuel-consumption.html.

Munich , 28th April 2016. Special models from the BMW M’s mid-range series with even better performance and radically designed for high-level driving dynamics have enjoyed a lasting tradition at BMW M Division for decades now. The latest example is the BMW M4 GTS, which is limited to 700 units (combined fuel consumption: 8.5 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 199 g/km)*. In order to provide formidable proof of this elite sports car’s outstanding performance qualities, BMW M has opted for a particularly spectacular way of drawing the public’s attention: The BMW M4 GTS is to become the official DTM safety car during the 2016 season.

The demands on such a lead car at the most popular international touring car series are high. According to the DTM rules “the DTM safety car is designed and adapted for high-performance driving on race circuits and is powerful enough to maintain the speeds at which other vehicles also participating in the event can be driven without an adverse effect on their racing capabilities.” In other words: the DTM safety car must be capable of setting a speed at which DTM drivers are able to keep, inter alia, the tyres and brake systems of their racing cars within an ideal temperature range.

BMW M4 GTS: impressive r acetrack performance ex works.
The BMW M4 GTS already fulfils these requirements in the production version. Under its bonnet it boasts the award-winning, 3.0-litre engine taken from the BMW M3/M4. Thanks to innovative water injection technology, it was possible to increase engine power output by 51 kW/69 hp to 368 kW/500 hp. Maximum torque was increased from 550 Nm to 600 Nm. Hence, the BMW M4 GTS (ECE kerb weight: 1,585 kg, power to weight ratio: 3.0 kg/hp), which was consistently developed according to the lightweight construction principle, is the most agile, radical and best-handling model in the series. It sprints from a standstill to the 100 km/h mark in a mere 3.8 seconds, reaching a top speed of 305 km/h (limited).

The tyres of the type Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 in the sizes 265/35 R19 at the front and 285/30 R20 at the rear, which come as standard and were specifically designed for the BMW M4 GTS, contribute to the car’s outstanding handling characteristics. They are mounted on weight-optimised, forged and burnished M light alloy wheels in Acid Orange and feature an exclusive 666 M star spoke styling.

Moreover, the mandatory safety features for the DTM safety car are already fitted: in the form of the optional Clubsport Package – available for the BMW M4 GTS at no extra cost – including an Acid Orange roll bar located behind the front seats, 6-point seat belts especially adapted for racing and a fire extinguisher. Therefore, to render the car suitable for DTM racetracks, it was only necessary to install the specific safety car light system with an LED light bar on the roof, LED flashers in the distinctively designed front apron as well the flash mode function for the LED headlamps. Clearly visible “DTM Safety Car” stickers and a radio installation for interference-free communication between the safety car crew and the race control were also added.

DTM safety car driver looks forward to his new racetrack vehicle.
Jürgen Kastenholz has been the official DTM safety car driver since 2010. After driving the BMW M4 Coupe DTM safety car for the last two years, he is looking forward to his new car, behind the wheel of which he will sit for the first time at the start of the DTM season in Hockenheim (6 to 8 May 2016). “The BMW M4 excels through neutral handling, fantastic response and enormous power delivery starting at low engine speeds for optimum acceleration out of tight corners,” says the 48-year old. “The new BMW M4 GTS will be even better. So I will have complete trust in the car from the word go – and this is absolutely essential to be able to lead a pack of 24 DTM racing cars quickly around the circuit during the caution periods.”

The BMW M3 Sedan, the BMW M4 Coupe and the BMW M4 Convertible demonstrate 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 exclusive equipment features and a14 kW/19 hp hike in power that takes output to 331 kW/450 hp (BMW M3/M4 Coupe: combined fuel consumption 8.8–8.3 l/100 km [32.1–34.0 mpg imp], combined CO2 emissions 204–194 g/km; BMW M4 Convertible: combined fuel consumption 9.1–8.7 l/100 km [31.0–32.5 mpg imp], combined CO2 emissions 213–203 g/km)*.

The extra power also means improved performance. The BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe with optional 7-speed M Double Clutch transmission sprint from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 4.0 seconds (without Competition Package: 4.1 s), while the BMW M4 Convertible reaches the same speed in 4.3 seconds (without Competition Package: 4.4 s). 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 also 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. Exclusive forged, machine-polished, weight- and rigidity-optimised 20-inch M alloy wheels – front 9J × 20; rear 10 J × 20 – with exclusive multi-spoke 666 M styling and mixed tyres (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 perfect support under extremely hard driving with exceptional comfort on long journeys. 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 overrun never fail to get under the skin of dedicated drivers time and again.

The Competition Package for the BMW M3 and BMW M4 is topped off by extended BMW Individual high-gloss Shadow Line exterior trim. The high-gloss Black finish has been applied not only to the side window trim, window recess finishers and exterior mirror frames and bases, but also to the BMW kidney grille, the side gills and the model badge on the tail. 

The BMW Group

With its three brands BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. As a global company, the BMW Group operates 30 production and assembly facilities in 14 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2015, the BMW Group sold approximately 2.247 million cars and nearly 137,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax for the financial year 2014 was approximately € 8.71 billion on revenues amounting to € 80.40 billion. As of 31 December 2014, the BMW Group had a workforce of 116,324 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy.

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

BMW regularly presents limited special series of particularly dynamic vehicles so as to sharpen the brand core: Sheer Driving Pleasure. Meanwhile a look ahead to future developments is provided by eye-catching concept cars that reflect the essence of the brand's pure DNA. The public response to both is reflected in the result of this year's readers' vote organised by the magazine "Auto Bild Sportscars". In two rating categories, readers voted BMW Group models "2015 Sports Car of the Year": the "Serial Production Coupés" class was won by new BMW M4 GTS, while in the "Concept Cars" category, the BMW 3.0 CSL Homage was able to attract the majority of votes.

BMW M4 GTS continues its winning streak.
By winning the "Serial Production Coupés" category, the BMW M4 GTS has built on the success of the BMW M4 Coupé and the BMW 435i Coupé, which were voted Sports Car of the Year in 2014 and 2013 respectively. The BMW M4 GTS underpins its sports car status with a lap time of 7:28 minutes on the legendary Nürburgring-Nordschleife. This performance is enabled by a three-way coilover suspension specially harmonised for the BMW M4 GTS, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres in the sizes 265/35 R19 at front and 285/30 R20 at rear, intelligent lightweight construction with the use of aluminium, carbon fibre, composite materials and high-strength steels and a high-performance in-line 6-cylinder petrol engine with M TwinPower Turbo Technology. Due to the innovative water injection - used for the first time in a serial production vehicle - the engine delivers an output of 368 kW/500 hp and a torque of 600 Nm from a capacity of 3.0 litres (combined fuel consumption: 8.5 l/100 km; CO2‑emissions combined: 199 g/km)*. This enables the BMW M4 GTS to accelerate in 3.8 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h, reaching a top speed of 305 km/h (cut off).

BMW 3.0 CSL Homage wins the "Concept Cars" category.
The victory of the BMW 3.0 CSL Homage was a premiere: it attracted the most votes in the "Concept Cars" category which was offered for the first time - and it won by a very clear margin. This concept study was presented at this year's Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este as the BMW design team's tribute to the legendary BMW 3.0 CSL - the timeless, classic BMW coupé icon of the 1970s.

The BMW 3.0 CSL Homage translates the character of the original into the contemporary age, reinterpreting it in a new and exciting way. Cutting-edge materials were used to build this concept car, including carbon fibre (CFRP). The high-tech material is used extensively in the BMW 3.0 CSL Homage, moving the philosophy of lightweight construction forward to the current state of the art. As in the 1970s original, the lines of the BMW 3.0 CSL Homage express pure dynamic performance: striking air deflectors, powerful wheel arches and a prominent roof and rear spoiler frame an elongated body. The front air deflector serves to ventilate the engine compartment while the wings above the rear wheels ensure optimum air flow around the vehicle. Small camera rear mirrors further reduce aerodynamic drag. The large rear spoiler increases surface pressure on the powered rear axle, thereby improving power transmission. An Air Curtain and Air Breather guarantee optimum wheel arch ventilation and air extraction. The 21-inch light alloy wheels in matt and high-gloss Bi-Color finish add a particularly striking touch. Air deflection blades in the wheel rim gaps additionally optimise aerodynamics.

Further top placements for BMW models.
In addition to the category winners, there were other BMW models that gained podium positions. In the category "Serial Production Sedans", the BMW M5 "30 Years of the M5" finished second, as did the BMW X6 M in the category "Serial Production SUVs". The BMW M135i came third in the category "Serial Production Compact Cars".

The "Auto Bild Sports Cars of the Year" readers' vote was held this year for the 14th time. The title "Sports Car of the Year" is among the most important awards for sports-style vehicles in the automobile sector in Germany, and it is highly coveted among all vehicle manufacturers. There were 142 models to choose from for the readers' vote in 2015. Drawn from test and road reports of the last 12 months, the vehicles were classified in 18 categories – eight for serial production vehicles, eight for tuning vehicles and one category each for small-series vehicles and concept cars respectively. The awards were presented today at the Essen Motor Show Race Night.

The BMW placements at glance:

Serial Production Coupés, winner: BMW M4 GTS.

Concept Cars, winner: BMW 3.0 CSL Homage.

Serial Production Sedans, 2nd place: BMW M5 "30 Years of the M5".

Serial Production SUVs, 2nd place: BMW X6 M.

Serial Production Compact Cars, 3rd place: BMW M135i.

For further details on official fuel consumption figures, official specific CO2 emissions and power consumption of new cars, please refer to the "Manual on fuel consumption, CO2 emissions
and power consumption of new cars", available at all sales outlets, from
Deutschen Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at http://www.dat.de/angebote/verlagsprodukte/leitfaden-kraftstoffverbrauch.html. Manual CO2 (PDF ‒ 2.7 MB)

The BMW M4 GTS gives BMW M GmbH a new and exclusive technological showpiece which elevates the potential of the BMW M4 Coupe to another impressive new level. With its powerful, motor sport-inspired looks and high-performance technology, the BMW M4 GTS has its sights set squarely on the race track. A lap time of 7.28 minutes around the legendary Nürburgring-Nordschleife, the world’s most exacting race circuit, is a clear statement of this special-edition model’s exceptional abilities. At the same time, the sharpest BMW M4 of all – like its BMW M stablemates – can also hold its own on public roads. BMW M GmbH is launching the BMW M4 GTS in a special edition limited to 700 units to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the BMW M3, which has been in production since 1986. In so doing, it is highlighting the innovative flair of the BMW M engineers in developing trailblazing M technologies on the powertrain, chassis and lightweight construction front. The first high-performance special edition in the M3/M4 model range will also be available for the first time in the important North American market.

“Special-edition models like the BMW M3 GT, BMW M3 CSL, BMW M3 GTS and BMW M3 CRT have a decades-long tradition in our mid-size line-up – and that continues with the BMW M4,” says Frank van Meel, CEO of BMW M GmbH. “They sharpen the character of the BMW M brand and embody an emotionally rich and exclusive driving experience. We’ve taken a radical route with the set-up of the BMW M4 GTS to create a sports machine for the race track that delivers top-end dynamics and inspirational performance. It allows us to demonstrate what is possible today with a road-legal car. Owners can drive their BMW M4 GTS to circuits such as Spa-Francorchamps, the Nürburgring or Laguna Seca – for clubsport events, for example – and then set lap times there that raise the bar to extremely high levels for road-legal cars.”

Performance boost courtesy of innovative water injection.
At the heart of each and every BMW M model is its engine. The BMW M4 GTS uses the multi-award-winning six-cylinder in-line turbo engine from the BMW M3/M4, but adds innovative water injection technology to give the 3.0-litre unit a substantial power boost. The water injection system raises the engine’s output significantly – to 368 kW/500 hp – and increases torque to 600 Nm (442 lb-ft), yet still keeps fuel economy and CO2 emissions at the level of the BMW M4 Coupe (8.3 litres per 100 km* [34 mpg imp], 194 g/km*). This makes the BMW M4 GTS the most agile, radical and dynamically potent model in the range. It races from a standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) in a mere 3.8 seconds and hits a limited top speed of 305 km/h (189.5 mph).

Lightweight design extends into the details.
Intelligent lightweight construction allows the BMW M engineers to limit the car’s DIN kerb weight to 1,510 kilograms (ECE kerb weight: 1,585 kg). Its outstanding weight-to-power ratio of 3.0 kg/hp provides the perfect platform for a highly dynamic driving experience. The rigorous weight-saving measures extend through both the interior and exterior of the car. Inside, carbon-fibre bucket seats, a lightweight centre console, the lightweight construction of the rear seat panelling and boot area partition, and special lightweight door and side panel trim, including door pull loops in place of solid door handles, are clearly visible indications of the designers’ commitment to weight-saving. The rigorous application of lightweight design can also be seen in details that are out of view. The instrument panel bracing tube is made from lightweight carbon fibre. And on the outside of the car, the newly designed bonnet, roof and adjustable front splitter are also constructed from carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP). The adjustable rear wing, too, is cut from this light but extremely durable high-tech material. It rests on intricate, CNC-machined aluminium mounts fixed to the CFRP boot lid which likewise demonstrate how every detail, no matter how small, has been honed to minimise weight. Teaming up with the diffuser – again, made from carbon fibre – below the rear bumper, the rear wing optimises the flow of air and reduces lift at the rear axle. The exhaust system has a titanium muffler, which allows a weight saving of 20 per cent. Its emotionally rich soundtrack fits the M profile perfectly and envelops the inside and outside of the car in the ambience of the race track.

Performance-maximising equipment features.
The standard-fitted seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission (M DCT) selects the optimum ratio for every driving situation with no interruption in the flow of power as it makes its way to the rear wheels. The driver can also select gears manually using either shift paddles on the steering wheel or the selector lever. The Drivelogic shift programs and Launch Control have been retuned to the engine’s increased output. The weight-minimised, exclusive M light-alloy wheels in star-spoke 666 M Styling are forged and polished, and come in Acid Orange. They are fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres (front: 265/35 R19, rear: 285/30 R20) which are adapted specifically to the BMW M4 GTS and therefore play a role in the car’s outstanding mechanical traction and feedback through corners.

The three-way M coilover suspension specially tuned for the BMW M4 GTS can be adjusted to individual tastes and therefore also to the demands of different race circuits. The lightweight M carbon ceramic brakes offer a well-defined pressure point and ensure outstanding deceleration even under sustained heavy loads, such as at the limit on the race track.

World-exclusive OLED technology, brilliant LED light.
The familiar two sets of twin circular headlights with four corona rings ensure the best possible illumination of the road surface. They combine cutting-edge LED (light-emitting diode) technology with BMW Selective Beam (dazzle-free high beam assistant) and Adaptive Headlights.

The L-shaped rear lights are just as distinctive as the design of the headlights. Indeed, innovative OLED rear lights will make their series-production debut in the BMW M4 GTS. OLEDs (organic light-emitting diodes) are a new kind of light source that light up over their full surface with a very homogeneous effect – unlike LED units, which emit their light in the form of points. The flat design of OLEDs (they measure just 1.4 millimetres in height) and the ability to trigger individual light modules separately open up fresh possibilities for lighting concepts and exudes the presence of exceptional precision. As such, the tail lights underline the width of the rear end, lend the car an even more eye-catching and powerful appearance and ensure it cuts a stand-out figure in both the light and dark.

The interior – focused, exclusive and committed to motor sport.
The carbon-fibre M bucket seats for the driver and passenger stick firmly with the lightweight construction theme inside the pure-bred, exclusive interior. They weigh around 50 per cent less than the sports seats in the BMW M4 Coupe, enable an ideal seating position and offer compelling long-distance comfort to go with their unbeatable levels of support. The exclusive Alcantara/Merino leather seat covering along with M stripes in the backrests, three-point seat belts and door pull loops highlight the profile of the BMW M4 GTS as a high-performance sports machine as well as the car’s standalone character. The M4 GTS is fitted with different bucket-style M sports seats (including lightweight backrests with cut-outs) for the North American market, in line with local registration requirements.

The exclusive material Alcantara is also used for the M sports steering wheel, whose “12 o’clock” marker underlines the racing character of the BMW M4 GTS. In place of a rear seat bench, the BMW M4 GTS features a glass-fibre-reinforced plastic (GFRP) shelf and a rear panel in carbon-fibre sandwich construction. Both are covered in Alcantara, and together they enable a weight saving of around 40 per cent.

The optional Clubsport Package can further enhance the affinity of the BMW M4 GTS with the race track. It includes a roll bar in Acid Orange behind the front seats, a race-specification six-point harness** and a fire extinguisher.

Further information on official fuel consumption figures, specific CO2 emission values and the electric power consumption of new passenger cars is included in the following guideline: “Leitfaden über Kraftstoffverbrauch, die CO2-Emissionen und den Stromverbrauch neuer Personenkraftwagen” (Guideline for fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and electric power consumption of new passenger cars), which can be obtained from all dealerships, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at http://www.dat.de/en/offers/publications/guideline-for-fuel-consumption.html. Leitfaden CO2 (Guideline CO2) (PDF ‒ 2.7 MB)

* Fuel consumption figures based on the EU test cycle, may vary depending on the tyre format specified.

** Not available on the US version.

Pebble Beach/Munich. A year on from the launch of the BMW M4 Coupe, BMW M Division is presenting an initial preview of a high-performance model for use on the road and, above all, on the race track: the BMW Concept M4 GTS.

The move sees BMW M Division once again returning to its roots. The BMW offshoot, founded in 1972 as BMW Motorsport GmbH, not only caused a sensation with its iconic BMW M1 racing car, but developed the first turbocharged engine to win the Formula One World Championship and was the force behind what remains the world’s most successful racing touring car – the Group A BMW M3.

And so the new BMW Concept M4 GTS continues the tradition of BMW M3 special models already illuminated by the BMW M3 Evolution (1988), BMW M3 Sport Evolution (1990), BMW M3 GT (1995), BMW M3 CSL (2003), BMW M3 GTS (2010) and BMW M3 CRT (2011). Technology honed in race competition, a hike in power, a commitment to lightweight design and limited production numbers have ensured these sharpest examples of their type offer unbeatable performance coupled with an emotionally powerful and exclusive driving experience.

“While the BMW M4 Coupe embodies the ideal combination of motor sport genes and unrestricted everyday usability, the BMW Concept M4 GTS previews an emotionally powerful and exclusive special model conceived with an eye for trailblazing technology and a keen focus on the race track,” explains Frank van Meel, President BMW M Division. “Despite its outstanding track ability, it is still fully road-legal. This is racing technology for the road in the truest sense.”

The BMW Concept M4 GTS showcases new technologies destined to make their series production debut in a new model to be unveiled at a later date. For example, the BMW Concept M4 GTS features the innovative water injection system that has already provided a significant output and torque boost in the BMW M4 MotoGP Safety Car. In addition, the BMW Concept M4 GTS has rear lights with OLED (organic light-emitting diode) technology that give the high-performance model a whole new look when darkness falls.

The world premiere of the BMW Concept M4 GTS will take place over the course of the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance weekend in California on 13 August 2015, in the company of prize-winning sports cars from years gone by.

Optimised down to the finest detail.
The BMW Concept M4 GTS builds on the BMW M4 Coupe’s dynamic and emotional use of forms. Yet its character as a high-performance special model, in which every detail has been developed to fulfil its purpose as a successful track machine, also comes immediately to the fore. The manually adjustable front splitter and rear wing – both in exposed carbon – ensure perfect aerodynamic balance and allow the BMW Concept M4 GTS to be adapted for both individual race tracks and for use on the road. Another example of the engineers’ rigorous adherence to lightweight design is the CFRP (carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic) bonnet, which lowers the car’s weight and centre of gravity further still. A wide front air intake optimises airflow and minimises front axle lift.

The dynamic and exclusive presence of the BMW Concept M4 GTS is accentuated by the exterior paint shade Frozen Dark Grey Metallic, with the Acid Orange accent on the front splitter creating an effective contrast. The lightweight, forged and polished light-alloy wheels in 666 M styling also feature an Acid Orange accent. The 9.5 J x 19 (front) and 10.5 J x 20 (rear) wheels are fitted with Michelin Sport Cup 2 tyres (265/35 R19 at the front, 285/30 R20 at the rear). The mixed-size tyres provide the ideal conduit for the stand-out dynamic attributes of the BMW Concept M4 GTS.

Water injection: power up, full-load fuel consumption down.
The engine powering the BMW Concept M4 GTS is equipped with the same innovative water injection system that has endowed the BMW M4 MotoGP Safety Car with a noticeable increase in output and torque.

The water injection system introduced by BMW M Division sees the engineers using the physical effect of water when vaporising to draw the required energy from the ambient medium. The water is injected into the plenums of the intake manifold as a fine spray. When the water vaporises, the intake air cools significantly. As a result, the final compression temperature in the combustion chamber – and therefore the engine’s tendency to “knock” – is reduced, enabling the turbocharged engine to use higher boost pressure and earlier injection timing.

This technology ensures an increase in output and torque, while at the same time reducing the thermal stress on performance-relevant components. All of which also enhances the stability and durability of the turbocharged engine. The BMW Concept M4 GTS therefore brings high-performance technology directly from the race track to the road.

The strong performance potential of the turbocharged six-cylinder in-line engine already demands an exceptionally sophisticated thermal management system for the engine and ancillary units. To ensure optimal operating temperatures in all situations, the M Division engineers have developed a highly innovative and effective cooling system. It comprises a main radiator plus additional radiators for the high- and low-temperature circuits, transmission and turbocharger in order to keep temperatures stable. The turbochargers are cooled by means of an indirect intercooler, assisted by an additional electric water pump.

OLED rear lights radiate ultra-high precision.
The BMW Concept M4 GTS is fitted with innovative rear lights featuring OLED technology. OLEDs (organic light-emitting diodes) are a new type of light source producing full-surface and homogenous illumination – in contrast to LEDs, which emit light to a single point. Their low installation height of just 1.4 millimetres and the ability to actuate individual light modules separately create fresh design scope in lighting concepts. OLED technology enables extra flexibility and forges an unmistakable appearance that signals exceptional precision.

OLED technology heralds a new era in light design and lighting concepts, and opens up new possibilities when it comes to a characteristic and distinctive light signature for BMW models – both for their daytime driving lights and during the hours of darkness.

Munich/Doha, 30th March 2015. The opening round of the 2015 MotoGP World Championship in Qatar marked the start of a 17th season as “Official Car of MotoGP” for BMW M. BMW has been involved in MotoGP since 1999 and provides the official fleet of vehicles. BMW M Division’s commitment also incorporates many other activities, including the presentation of the coveted BMW M Award.

As a long-term partner of MotoGP organiser Dorna Sports, BMW M Division is once again introducing a number of new features this season. These include a technical innovation: at the Qatar Grand Prix, at the “Losail International Circuit”, the BMW M4 MotoGP Safety Car took to the track with innovative water injection for the first time. With this new technology, the engineers at BMW M Division have achieved a tangible boost in performance from the high-performance engine of the BMW M4 Coupé (431 bhp/317 kW in the production version, combined fuel consumption of 8.8-8.3 l/100 km, combined CO2 emissions of 204-194 g/km). This is due to the fact that water injection makes it possible to raise the upper performance limits, which have otherwise been restricted thermally. Following intense testing within the MotoGP World Championship, the water injection system will also be employed in a BMW M production model in the near future.

“Millions of fans around the world are captivated by MotoGP. Therefore, it provides us with an outstanding opportunity to present our brand, technology and products to an international audience that is enthusiastic about racing,” said Frank van Meel, President of BMW M Division. “BMW M has always been synonymous with technological innovations, and we are delighted to be able to present the innovative water injection as another new highlight this year. When it comes to leading a field of high-performance racing prototypes safely in any conditions, technology gleaned from the world of motorsport and innovative ideas are indispensable. That is precisely why BMW M is the ‘most powerful letter in the world’. The new water injection is just one example of this. The 2015 season marks the 17th year of BMW M as ‘Official Car of MotoGP’. The successful cooperation with Dorna Sports has grown consistently over the years and is set to continue in the long term. In 2019 we will celebrate the 20th anniversary of BMW M in MotoGP. We are proud of this partnership, which spans decades and is extremely rare in international high-performance sport.”

The new water injection sees the engineers make use of the water’s physical effect during the vaporisation process to extract the energy required from the environmental medium. Water is injected into the intake module’s collector as a fine spray, thus significantly cooling the exhaust air during vaporisation. This lowers the discharge temperature in the combustion changer and thus reduces the tendency for knocking. The turbo engine can thus be operated with a higher charging pressure and an earlier ignition point. The lower process temperatures also reduce the formation of hazardous substances, in particular nitrogen oxide (NOX). This way, the innovative technology increases performance and torque, while at the same time ensuring outstanding consumption and emission figures.

Another highlight of the MotoGP Safety Car fleet is the new BMW X5 M, which makes its debut as the Medical Car this season. With the new BMW X5 M (575 PS/423 kW; combined fuel consumption: 11.1 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 258 g/km), BMW M Division is once again setting benchmarks in the sector for high-performance Sports Activity Vehicles (SAV) and Sports Activity Coupés (SAC). It combines the characteristic features of the successful BMW X family – exclusivity, robustness, agility and road capability – with the high-performance approach typical of M. As with all the vehicles in the Safety Car fleet, the BMW X5 M was prepared for its outings as MotoGP Medical Car in the BMW M factory.

In total, the fleet of official MotoGP vehicles comprises six BMW M and M Performance models. As well as the BMW M4 Coupé, the BMW M3 and BMW M6 Gran Coupé are also employed as Safety Cars. A BMW M5 is available for the Safety Officer, while the new BMW X5 M and the BMW M550d xDrive Touring are used as Medical Cars. BMW Motorrad also provides two BMW S 1000 RRs as Safety Bikes. You can find more information on the 2015 Safety Car fleet online at: www.bmw-m-safetycar.com

Among the many other activities that make up BMW M Division’s commitment to MotoGP is the BMW M Award, which will be presented for the 13th time in 2015. This award is presented at the end of each MotoGP season to the rider with the best overall result in qualifying. The winner receives an exclusive BMW M automobile. The BMW M MotoGP Experience sees guests of BMW M Division experience an unforgettable race weekend. They are given an exclusive glimpse behind the scenes by BMW M MotoGP experts Loris Capirossi and Alex Hofmann. Furthermore, BMW M Division also presents its latest high-performance automobiles and other models of car from the various brands within the BMW Group on Grand Prix weekends. 

Dear Media Representatives,

The 2015 season marks the 17th season of BMW M as “Official Car of MotoGP”. Ever since 1999, MotoGP organiser Dorna Sports has been able to rely on a dependable partner in the form of BMW M when it comes to ensuring the highest possible degree of safety at the pinnacle of motorcycle racing. This successful partnership has grown consistently over the years. Last autumn, Dorna Sports and BMW M Division extended their cooperation up to and including 2020. This means we will be able to celebrate the 20th anniversary of BMW M in MotoGP in 2019. We are proud of this partnership, which spans over decades and is extremely rare in international, high-performance sports.

BMW M has always been synonymous with technological innovations, and we are delighted to be able to present another new highlight this year: in the near future, BMW M Division will begin production of a model featuring water injection. Water injection is a system designed to increase the performance and reduce the consumption of combustion engines. We will be using this technology in the BMW M4 MotoGP Safety Car for the 2015 season for the first time.

When it comes to leading a field of high-performance racing prototypes safely in any conditions, technology gleaned from the world of motorsport and innovative ideas are indispensable. That is precisely why BMW M is the "most powerful letter in the world". The new water injection is just one example of this. Outstanding driving properties and impressive performance parameters – this is what allows our high-performance automobiles to master any challenge, whether on the racetrack or in everyday use.

Millions of fans around the world are captivated by MotoGP. Therefore, it provides us with an outstanding opportunity to present our brand, technology and products to an international audience that is enthusiastic about racing. As well as providing a Safety Car fleet featuring the latest BMW M high-performance models, our commitment to MotoGP also includes many other activities. The BMW M Award, which was presented for the first time in 2003, is a much sought-after accolade among the world’s top motorcyclists. The BMW M MotoGP Experience and our BMW M MotoGP Experts allow us to offer our guests an unforgettable weekend of racing with an exclusive insight into what goes on behind the scenes. As if this were not enough, fans at racetracks around the world also have the opportunity to discover the wide world of BMW M at close hand.

This Media Guide offers you an informative overview of our partnership with Dorna Sports and our commitment to MotoGP, as well as the history of BMW M Division and the company’s extensive range of products. Should you have any further queries, it goes without saying that we are only too happy to help. I hope you have an exciting 2015 season!

Frank van Meel

President of BMW M Division

Munich. Just a few months after their market launch, the new BMW M3 and the new BMW M4 Coupé have received the "Auto Bild Sports Cars of the Year" award. The readers’ vote organised by the automobile magazine "Auto Bild Sportscars" saw the BMW M3 Sedan win the "Serial Production Sedan Models" class, attracting 30.21 per cent of the votes cast. Meanwhile the BMW M4 Coupé (16.67 per cent) came out on top in the category "Serial Production Coupé Models".

Top performance, driving pleasure and efficiency.
With their votes, magazine readers have impressively underscored the outstanding position of the new M models. The BMW M3 Sedan and the BMW M4 Coupé (combined fuel consumption of each: 8.8 l/100 km, combined CO2 emissions: 204 g/km)* set the benchmark in the segment of high-performance sports cars when it comes to overall concept, precision and agility. They are powered by a newly developed 6-cylinder in-line engine. Fitted with M TwinPower Turbo Technology and high-revving concept, the power unit provides a peak output of 317 kW/431 hp. The maximum torque of 550 Nm is available across a wide engine speed range, exceeding the top level of the predecessor BMW M3 by almost 40 per cent. The weight was reduced by around 80 kilograms by means of a consistent lightweight construction concept, achieving the very highest level of driving dynamics as well as outstanding efficiency. This gives the BMW M4 Coupé a DIN unladen weight of 1,497 kilograms. Fuel consumption and emissions have been reduced by 25 per cent. The BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupé with the optional 7-speed dual clutch transmission take 4.1 seconds for the sprint from zero to 100 km/h as well as offering impressively robust race track capability.

"Auto Bild Sportscars" belongs to the Auto Bild Group, the largest magazine group in the automobile segment in Europe. Readers were able to vote online at "autobild.de" and were given a choice of 143 automobiles in 17 categories. The title "Auto Bild Sports Cars of the Year" was awarded for the 13th time in 2014 and is one of the most important awards for sports-style automobiles in Germany. The award ceremony took place at the "Race Night" as part of the 2014 Essen Motor Show.

* Fuel consumption figures were calculated based on the ECE test cycle, dependent on tyre format.

For further details on official fuel consumption figures, official specific CO2 emissions and power consumption of new cars, please refer to the "Manual on fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and power consumption of new cars", available at all sales outlets, from Deutschen Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at http://www.dat.de/angebote/verlagsprodukte/leitfaden-kraftstoffverbrauch.html. ManualCO2 (PDF - 2.7 MB)

Munich. BMW is expanding its line-up of M Performance Parts from the Original BMW Accessories range in time for the Essen Motor Show 2014 (29.11–07.12. 2014). The new BMW M Performance Parts for the BMW X3 and BMW X4, BMW M3, BMW M4 Coupe and BMW M4 Convertible lend these models an even sharper sporting edge. As well as attractive design upgrades for the interior and exterior, the range also includes functional accessories which boost the performance of classical BMW models, for example, and inject more emotional appeal into the engine’s soundtrack. The new accessories bring the total number of BMW M Performance Parts designed to raise sporty driving pleasure another notch to over 1,200 – from a starter kit all the way to exhaust systems.

These model-specific BMW M Performance products from the accessories range, which are also available for other BMW model series, have been developed using the decades of racing experience and innovative power of BMW M GmbH. Thanks to the company’s deep reserves of expertise, customers can rest assured that the retrofit components have been adapted precisely to the character and qualities of the individual models. They also meet the uncompromising quality standards of the BMW Group as far as materials selection, design and quality of workmanship are concerned. All the products belong to the Original BMW Accessories range. When retrofitted, they do not in any way affect the warranty terms for the relevant vehicle.

Sporty new accents for the exterior of the BMW X3 and BMW X4.
The new BMW M Performance Parts shine an even brighter spotlight on the cars’ sporting ability and dynamic aura. Examples include a black version of the BMW kidney grille for the BMW X3 and BMW X4, as well as exterior mirror caps and a rear spoiler (BMW X4 only) in high-tech carbon. The carbon components have been elaborately manufactured by hand. Elsewhere, BMW M Performance accent strips in Black/Silver can be ordered for the BMW X3 and BMW X4 to highlight the two X models’ dynamic lines to pleasing effect. And the BMW M Performance light-alloy wheels available for both the BMW X3 and the BMW X4 add further sporting emphasis to both the exterior design of the two cars and their driving characteristics. The high-quality forged wheels stand out with their distinctive design and low weight. They make an effective contribution to the reduction in the unsprung mass of the two cars, enhancing agility and steering responses in the process. The BMW M Performance light-alloy wheels come in 21-inch format and with mixed tyres. The two models each get their own take on a double-spoke design, complete with the now familiar BMW M Performance bi-colour finish in Orbit Grey with polished spoke fronts.

New aerodynamic components for the BMW M3, BMW M4 Coupe and BMW M4 Convertible.
As well as further enhancing the muscular athleticism of the BMW M3 and BMW M4, the main benefit of the BMW M Performance aerodynamic components for these high-performance sports cars can be found in further improvements to airflow at high speed. Customers can choose from a selection of items including add-on parts in carbon for the side sections of the front bumper, a front attachment made from polyurethane (PUR), a carbon rear diffuser and a carbon rear spoiler. PUR is also used for the side skirt attachments and a rear spoiler for the BMW M3. In addition, tri-colour side decals with “M Performance” lettering are available for the Sedan, Coupe and Convertible.

Even sportier interior featuring new M Performance Parts.
The new BMW M Performance Parts also include a host of attractive and sporting details for the interior of the BMW X3 and BMW X4. The LED door sill plates in brushed stainless-steel look with illuminated BMW M Performance lettering draw attention the moment you open the front doors. Battery power means they are extremely easy to retrofit, with no need for laying cables. The BMW M Performance interior trim strips in carbon or an Alcantara/carbon combination with M Performance lettering mark out the interior clearly from that of the standard cars and, like the Steptronic or Steptronic sport transmission’s carbon gearshift lever with BMW M logo, add a sporty and exclusive accent to the cockpit. Another highlight in the new range of accessories for the interior of the BMW X3 and BMW X4 is the BMW M Performance steering wheel in Alcantara with attractive carbon trim. It is beautifully grippy, even in extreme driving situations, and remains equally pleasant to the touch in all temperatures. The BMW M Performance stainless-steel pedal covers and the driver’s footrest, meanwhile, provide a visually appealing and functional complement to the other M Performance Parts for the interior. The new M Performance key case continues the theme. With its sophisticated Alcantara/carbon material combination, M Light Blue accents and high-quality blue hex bolt, it blends in perfectly with the sporty and dynamic design of the new BMW M Performance Parts. The easy-care BMW M Performance floor mats, meanwhile, are a perfect fit and set the seal on the sporting looks of the interior. All four mats come with eye-catching M Performance lettering.

M Performance steering wheel with Race Display for the BMW M3 and BMW M4.
The BMW M Performance steering wheel with Alcantara covering, carbon trim and Race Display does its bit to ensure the BMW M3 and BMW M4 deliver a particularly full-blooded driving experience. The painted carbon steering wheel trim carries “M Performance” lettering. The Alcantara covering for the steering wheel rim has contrast stitching in the three BMW M colours. And the thumb rests feature a pair of embedded buttons used to activate Efficient Dynamics mode, Sport mode and Race mode. The driver can use the integrated display at the top of the steering wheel rim to view gear change signals and lateral/longitudinal acceleration figures, among other things. Sport mode gives the driver access to a stopwatch function with displays for hours, minutes and seconds. Lateral/longitudinal acceleration figures are also shown. During committed track sessions, Race mode allows lap times to be displayed and stored in minutes, seconds and hundredths of seconds. The top speeds and maximum lateral/longitudinal acceleration figures for the most recent 50 laps completed can also be stored.

Power Kits boost the performance of the BMW X3 and BMW X4.

The BMW M Performance Power Kit developed for the BMW X3 xDrive30d (fuel consumption combined: 6.1–l/100 km [46.3–47.9 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 159–156 g/km)* and BMW X4 xDrive30d (fuel consumption combined: 5.6–5.2 l/100 km [50.4–54.3 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 146–138 g/km)* summons up a significant increase in performance. Among its components is a control unit for the engine electronics which has been tuned specially to the 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line diesel engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology. This helps to induce significantly more sporting performance characteristics with no change in fuel consumption and emissions. The BMW M Performance Power Kit raises the engine’s maximum output by 20 kW to 210 kW and peak torque – depending on the gear engaged – to as much as 600 Newton metres (442 lb-ft). The most important result of this increase in performance is a noticeable improvement in sprinting power. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) is up to 0.3 seconds faster, the BMW X3 xDrive30d recording an impressively fast time of approximately 5.6 seconds (down from 5.9) and the BMW X4 xDrive30d reaching the same speed from rest in an even quicker 5.5 seconds (down from 5.8). The boost in power goes hand-in-hand with sportier accelerator characteristics headlined by faster responses and an optimised engine and exhaust note. Remarkably, these two Power Kits match the fuel consumption and emissions values of the standard models in the ECE driving cycle despite delivering the extra power.

M Performance silencer systems enhance visual and aural appeal.
A BMW M Performance valve silencer, whose operating mode can be adjusted remotely via Bluetooth, is available exclusively for the BMW X4 xDrive35i. As well as Sport mode – distinguished by a strikingly emotion-rich soundtrack – drivers can also select the Track mode conceived for use exclusively on the race track, which specialises in even more hardcore and performance-focused sound development. The stainless-steel silencer system also comes with trapezoidal chrome tailpipe embellishers in the style favoured by eight-cylinder BMWs. Twin-pipe BMW M Performance embellishers in chrome are also available for the BMW X4 xDrive20d, BMW X3 sDrive18d and BMW X3 xDrive20d.

Striking engine soundtrack for the BMW M3 and BMW M4.
The BMW M Performance silencer system developed specially for the BMW M3 and BMW M4 uses optimised exhaust gas channelling to generate an emotion-rich engine soundtrack that underlines the performance characteristics of the biturbo straight-six engine in stirring fashion. The lightweight flap control exhaust system comprises a stainless-steel exhaust system and a silencer made completely from titanium and displaying M Performance lettering when viewed from the rear. A distinctive stylistic highlight are the classy tailpipe embellishers, in either titanium or carbon, with M logo. The use of titanium ensures the BMW M Performance silencer system is exceptionally heat-resistant, corrosion-resistant and lightweight. Indeed, it weighs around eight kilograms less than the standard item. The driver can choose from two settings for the sound characteristics of the BMW M Performance silencer system, both of which are linked to an engine performance profile that can be activated at the touch of a button. In Standard mode, the sound development is already much more dramatic than that of a regular model, has a defined sporting edge and is also suitable for everyday use. In SPORT and SPORT+ modes the development of power is accompanied by a stunningly powerful, emotionally rich soundtrack, which gives the driver extremely clear feedback on engine load.

Take a closer look with the BMW M Performance Drive Analyser.
The BMW M Performance Drive Analyser – available for all BMW models from model year 2011 – allows owners to examine their driving style with impressive precision. Whether the owner is pursuing lap times on the race track or simply driving from A to B on the road, this new tool records driving dynamics data with professional efficiency. The BMW M Performance Drive Analyser consists of an On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) stick, which is plugged into the relevant socket in the car, as well as software in the form of an app for Android and iOS smartphones and tablets. The connection between the car and OBD stick is via Bluetooth. The car’s Click & Drive holder, meanwhile, enables easy attachment of the smartphone to the windscreen. All the measurements, such as the car’s speed, the gear currently engaged, accelerator and brake usage, a range of other engine data, and even lateral acceleration, are stored straight onto the smartphone/tablet and can be accessed at any time. Drivers can study the results directly on their smartphone after every journey.

Further information on official fuel consumption figures, specific CO2 emission values and the electric power consumption of new passenger cars is included in the following guideline: “Leitfaden über fuel consumption, die CO2 emissions und den Stromverbrauch neuer Personenkraftwagen” (Guideline for fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and electric power consumption of new passenger cars), which can be obtained from all dealerships, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at http://www.dat.de/en/offers/publications/guideline-for-fuel-consumption.html. LeitfadenCO2 (GuidelineCO2) (PDF ‒ 2.7 MB).

Keen to celebrate this success in fitting style, BMW M GmbH is unveiling the BMW M4 DTM Champion Edition (0 – 100 km/h / 62 mph in 4.1 seconds, fuel consumption combined: 8.8 l/100 km [32.1 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 204 g/km)*. The Champion Edition will be built in a limited run of 23 units, reflecting Wittmann’s car number. And – in a further tribute to the DTM winner – it will be offered exclusively in Alpine White. The other signature features of the special-edition model, which will be refined exclusively at the BMW Individual Manufactory in Garching (near Munich), will likewise display close links with the victorious BMW M4 DTM. The matt-black bonnet and boot lid with eye-catching stripe design make an excellent visual complement to the standard CFRP roof, as does the black character line along the car’s flanks. Added to the mix are an M kidney grille with orange surround, an M logo rearwards of the front wheel arches, the number 23 on the doors and the flag along with “WIT” and “DTM Champion 2014” lettering on the rear side windows.

The arrival of the new BMW M4 Convertible (fuel consumption combined: 9.1–8.7 l/100 km [31–32.5 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 213–203 g/km) sees BMW M GmbH making another alluring addition to its legendary high-performance sports car line-up. The new M4 Convertible replicates the performance figures of the new BMW M3 Sedan (fuel consumption combined: 8.8–8.3 l/100 km [32.1–34.0 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 204–194 g/km) and the new BMW M4 Coupe (fuel consumption combined: 8.8–8.3 l/100 km [32.1–34.0 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 204–194 g/km), but emphasises its stylish and distinctive appearance through its individual character and places the fascination of sporty and dynamic open-top driving at centre stage. The new model finds BMW M GmbH drawing inspiration from a long tradition: BMW’s high-performance sports car for track and road is entering its fifth generation in open-top form with this new chapter in its history headed “M4 Convertible”. 

The BMW M4 Convertible shares the elegant lines of its open-top 4 Series siblings. Its design language allows it to skilfully blend a distinctive and graceful silhouette boasting finely balanced proportions when the roof is open with an exceptionally dynamic coupe line, shorn off B-pillars, with the hardtop closed. At the same time, the M4 Convertible’s styling cues – including a signature power dome for the bonnet, eye-catching exterior mirrors in twinstalk style and flared front and rear wheel arches bulging over forged lightalloy wheels with mixed tyres in 18-inch (optional 19-inch) format – all identify it clearly as a member of the BMW M3/M4 model family. 

Powering the BMW M4 Convertible is the newly developed six-cylinder in-line engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology and high-revving character already familiar from the M3 Sedan and M4 Coupe. The power unit generates maximum output of 317 kW/431 hp from its 3.0-litre displacement and serves up peak torque of 550 Newton metres (406 lb-ft) across a wide rev band. The BMW M4 Convertible therefore offers the driver not only exceptionally sporty performance attributes – the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) takes just 4.4 seconds (with the optional seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission) – but also sufficient reserves of power to cruise along in relaxed but rapid style with the roof down. 

Like the BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe, the BMW M4 Convertible also displays a strict adherence to the intelligent lightweight construction principle. For example, the bonnet and front side panels are made from aluminium, as are many components of the high-performance chassis. Added to which, ultra-lightweight and – thanks to its hugely impressive rigidity – also extremely durable carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) is employed in many areas of the new M4 Convertible. The drive shaft is one example, the use of CFRP allowing it to be constructed as a single-piece unit. This makes for a significant weight saving and a reduction in rotating masses. The CFRP precision strut in the engine compartment, meanwhile, weighs only 1.5 kilograms yet offers rigidity superior to that of a comparable aluminium component. It therefore plays a key part in the car’s excellent steering response and precision. 

The three-section folding metal roof of the BMW M4 Convertible has full interior lining and represents a compelling proposition with its excellent soundproofing and winter-proof construction. The roof opens at the touch of a button in under 20 seconds – while travelling at up to 18 km/h (11 mph), if required. 

Complementing its already extensive standard specification, the new BMW M4 Convertible can also be ordered with a wealth of attractive options to further enhance its aesthetic appeal, dynamic prowess and comfort levels. And for that distinctive personal touch, the exclusive BMW Individual range of equipment offers the prospect of a unique driving experience. Special colours and materials can be fine-tuned to the driver’s wishes.

The “M4” badge is a reference to the model series that provides the basis for the new M model – and, for the first time, the Coupe will be introduced at the same time as the four-door variant. Logic dictates the latter will be christened the BMW M3 Sedan.

“Four generations of the BMW M3 have blended motor sport genes and uncompromised everyday usability within an emotionally rich overall concept,” explains Dr Friedrich Nitschke, President BMW M GmbH. “The BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe represent an ongoing commitment to this philosophy. The engine is the heart of every M model, and the new turbocharged six-cylinder unit fitted in the two new cars combines the virtues of a high-revving naturally aspirated unit with the strengths of turbocharger technology. A committed lightweight design concept produces a weight saving of around 80 kilograms over the outgoing M3. The BMW M3 and BMW M4 take motor sport technology from the track to the road, and thousands of laps of the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife – the world’s most exacting race track – have readied the new models for that transition. Meticulous and passion-fuelled development work has underpinned the creation of two high-performance sports cars that set new standards in terms of overall concept, precision and agility.”

The arrival of the new BMW M4 Convertible (fuel consumption combined: 9.1–8.7 l/100 km [31–32.5 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 213–203 g/km) sees BMW M GmbH making another alluring addition to its legendary high-performance sports car line-up. The new M4 Convertible replicates the performance figures of the new BMW M3 Sedan (fuel consumption combined: 8.8–8.3 l/100 km [32.1–34.0 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 204–194 g/km) and the new BMW M4 Coupe (fuel consumption combined: 8.8–8.3 l/100 km [32.1–34.0 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 204–194 g/km), but emphasises its stylish and distinctive appearance through its individual character and places the fascination of sporty and dynamic open-top driving at centre stage. The new model finds BMW M GmbH drawing inspiration from a long tradition: BMW’s high-performance sports car for track and road is entering its fifth generation in open-top form with this new chapter in its history headed “M4 Convertible”.

The launch of the new BMW M3 Sedan and new BMW M4 Coupe sees BMW M GmbH revealing a new interpretation of the high-performance sports car – and carrying the BMW M philosophy over into the fifth generation of the M3. More than 40,000 examples of the fourth-generation BMW M3 Coupe were built, and now the BMW M4 Coupe is poised to continue this success story. The “M4” badge is a reference to the model series that provides the basis for the new M model – and, for the first time, the Coupe will be introduced at the same time as the four-door variant. Logic dictates the latter will be christened the BMW M3 Sedan.

“Four generations of the BMW M3 have blended motor sport genes and uncompromised everyday usability within an emotionally rich overall concept,” explains Dr Friedrich Nitschke, President BMW M GmbH. “The BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe represent an ongoing commitment to this philosophy. The engine is the heart of every M model, and the new turbocharged six-cylinder unit fitted in the two new cars combines the virtues of a high-revving naturally aspirated unit with the strengths of turbocharger technology. A committed lightweight design concept produces a weight saving of around 80 kilograms over the outgoing M3. The BMW M3 and BMW M4 take motor sport technology from the track to the road, and thousands of laps of the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife – the world’s most exacting race track – have readied the new models for that transition. Meticulous and passion-fuelled development work has underpinned the creation of two high-performance sports cars that set new standards in terms of overall concept, precision and agility.”

The high-revving six-cylinder in-line engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology newly developed for the new BMW M3 Sedan and new BMW M4 Coupe produces a maximum output of 431 hp. Its peak torque of 550 Newton metres (406 lb-ft) is available across a wide rev band and outstrips the figure recorded by the outgoing BMW M3 by roughly 40 per cent. And yet the engine also achieves a reduction in fuel consumption and emissions of around 25 per cent. Both the BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe cover the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h / 62 mph in 4.1 seconds (with the optional seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission).

In the interests of maximising dynamic ability and ensuring excellent efficiency, weight savings of around 80 kilograms have been achieved over a comparably equipped predecessor model. The BMW M4 Coupe, for example, has a DIN kerb weight of 1,497 kilograms, thanks to the rigorous application of intelligent lightweight design measures. These include the increased use of lightweight materials such as carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) and aluminium for a number of chassis and body components. Indeed, both models feature a carbon roof.

One of the primary objectives in the development of the BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe was to ensure the new cars offered impressive race track capability. Hence the presence of a track-specification cooling system, which ensures that the optimum temperature balance for the engine, turbochargers and transmission is maintained at all times.

In order to accentuate the racing character of the two models in terms of both their technical composition and the fine-tuning of the cars, the engineers worked closely with BMW Motorsport’s professional racing drivers during the development phase. For example, DTM drivers Bruno Spengler and Timo Glock took part in the extensive testing and set-up work carried out at the Nürburgring-Nordschleife circuit.