2018 BMW M4

Arguably one of the linchpins of the BMW high-performance M lineup, the M4 is the hot version of the 4 Series, a range of coupes and convertibles that share much of their mechanical makeup with the 3 Series sedan.

For 2018, the M4 gains the same cosmetic mid-cycle update as the 4 Series range (covered in its own buyer's guide entry) that includes new full-LED taillights and interior upgrades conceived to enhance the upscale feel of this sports car's cabin. Another upgrade is BMW's latest navigation system and connected drive services.

Not every 4 Series variant gets the M treatment: the Gran Coupe, the four-door that toes the line between true coupe and hatchback, is left out, so that only the coupe and convertible wear the M4 badge.

With that badge come a 3.0L twin-turbocharged six-cylinder engine good for 425 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, which can be paired with either six-speed manual transmission, or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. Like most of BMW's M cars, the M4 eschews the xDrive AWD setup in favour of a rear-drive arrangement more true to the car's mission as a sports model.

Despite its relatively new M4 badge, this most fleet of compact BMWs is the latest in a long line of high-performance models that has solidified the Bavarian brand's M badge as one of the most desirable among fans of fast cars. With this car (and the M3 sedan), BMW goes up against the likes of the Audi S4 and S5, Mercedes-Benz's C 63 and newer performance players like the Volvo S60 Polestar.

M4 is a performance-focused car, but was conceived to be comfortable and efficient enough to drive to and from the racetrack as well as on it; there's also no reason why this couldn't be your only car and daily driver. But if you're after a more hardcore experience, check out BMW's options list, which includes an $8,500 carbon ceramic brake package, while the double-clutch transmission is a more affordable $3,900 extra, and an adaptive M suspension is a $900 add. And a competition package bumps engine output to 450 hp.

But there's a lot of luxury to add here, too, like a full Merino leather interior that can be ordered in a variety of standard colours, plus a selection of other shades that give this car a bespoke feel.

And a 2017 brought technology like wireless smartphone charging, wifi hotspot, Apple CarPlay and dual USB ports. And a safety package bundles emergency autonomous braking, lane departure warning and blind spot detection with speed limit information and automatic high beams.

2018 M4 pricing starts at $77,300 for the coupe, and $86,800 as a droptop.