title:2024 BMW M4 Review: Is It Still a True M Car?
content:Opening Hook
If you’ve ever wondered whether the new BMW M4 still lives up to the legacy of the compact, agile E30 M3, you’re not alone. The video reviewer shares your skepticism—from the bizarre carbon fiber seats to the car’s growing size, it’s easy to question if this M car is true to its roots. After analyzing this video, I believe the M4 has evolved, but not necessarily in the way purists might hope. Let’s dive into what makes this car tick, and whether it’s worth your time and money.
content:Is the New M4 Still a "True" M Car?
The video raises a critical question: What does BMW mean by an M car today? The E30 M3 was small and compact, but the M4 has grown so much that the M2 now fills the "small M car" gap. According to EU weight standards, the M4’s curb weight is 1725 kg—adding the mandatory 75 kg for a driver and fuel pushes it to 1800 kg, which feels heavy for a car supposed to be agile. This shift toward a larger, more powerful grand tourer makes sense: BMW sells more AMG-like cars, so the M4 adapts to market demands. But this evolution alienates purists who crave the tight, lightweight feel of old M cars.
content:Driving Experience Breakdown
The M4’s strengths lie in its power and tech, but it has noticeable flaws. Let’s break down the key elements:
Performance & Power
The 503 horsepower twin-turbo six-cylinder engine is a standout. It delivers oodles of torque, making overtaking effortless even at highway speeds. The reviewer notes second gear can trouble the rear wheels in dry conditions—proof of its raw power.
Drive Settings
The M4’s drive mode menu is intuitive. Keep the brakes in sport mode—the soft setting lacks the responsiveness you’d expect from a sports car. Comfort chassis mode works well for UK roads, though it’s still firm on bad surfaces. Steering settings adjust weight, not feel—so don’t expect tactile feedback of older M cars.
Interior & Comfort
The carbon fiber seats are polarizing. They feel like they’re for show rather than practicality—hard to rest your legs on, unlike supportive seats in single-seater cars. The touchscreen is handy, with over-air updates and easy navigation.
content:Beyond the Video: Who Should Buy the M4?
The video doesn’t explicitly state this, but the M4 is ideal for drivers who want a powerful grand tourer, not a lightweight sports car. If you crave agility, the M2 is a better choice—it’s the spiritual successor to the E30 M3. The M4’s trend toward larger, more luxurious models is part of a broader industry shift: carmakers cater to buyers who want performance and comfort. This isn’t bad, but it’s important to know what you’re getting.
content:Toolbox & Action Guide
Immediately Actionable Checklist
- Test drive the M4 with brakes set to sport mode for optimal responsiveness.
- Try comfort chassis mode on UK roads to see if it fits your daily commute.
- Compare the M4 to the M2 if you prioritize agility over grand touring.
- Check exhaust settings—loud mode is fun, but quiet mode suits city driving.
- Test the infotainment system to ensure it’s intuitive for your needs.
Advanced Resource Recommendations
- BMW Test Drive Program: Book a test drive to experience the M4’s settings firsthand.
- Top Gear’s M Car Comparisons: Their videos offer authoritative insights into how the M4 stacks up against rivals like the Alfa Romeo Giulia.
- BMW Owner Forums: Connect with current M4 owners to get real-world feedback on reliability and daily use.
content:Conclusion & Engagement
The new BMW M4 is a capable grand tourer with a cracking engine and loads of power, but it’s not the compact, agile M car of old. It’s perfect for drivers who want performance and comfort, but purists should look to the M2.
When trying the M4, which feature do you think will be the biggest deciding factor for you? The power, the interior, or the driving feel? Share your thoughts in the comments.