2020 BMW M4

The 4 Series models are positioned between the brand's other coupe models, namely those of the 2 and 8 series. If you're a fan of pure performance, then the M4 variant is for you. This beast is somewhat the spiritual successor to the M3, as the latter now only exists in sedan form.

Despite rumors suggesting a major transformation for the M4 in 2020, the model returns virtually unchanged, at least for now. It also avoids the all-wheel drive system that will be reserved for the 3 Series, as well as the slightly more advanced engine that will serve the M versions of the compact X3 and X4 SUVs.

Thus, the M4 retains its 3-litre turbo 6-cylinder, an engine that cranks out 425 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. That's for the base version. When the buyer goes for the Competition package, the power is pushed to 453 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. Both the coupe and convertible versions are offered with a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. If you opt for a coupe variant with the Competition package, the automatic transmission comes as standard.

With the M4, BMW offers a direct competitor to the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S coupe, as well as the Audi RS 5. The former has an advantage in terms of power, offering 503 horsepower. However, the sedan version delivers 469 horsepower, which is more in line with what the M4 offers. Most of the M4's rivals, in fact, have four doors.

The M4 comes with 19-inch wheels, but it's possible to go with 20-inch wheels, regardless of body configuration. Inside, you'll find standard black seats covered in leather and cloth, as well as aluminum trim on the dashboard.

Among other standard amenities, you'll find an auto-dimming rearview mirror inside and on the driver's side, adaptive LED headlights, sport seats with lumbar support and adjustable bolsters, power seat adjustments, memory function, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, rain-sensing wipers, as well as forward collision warning.

As for the Competition version, in addition to offering more power, it adds numerous exterior trim pieces, M seat belts, as well as adaptive suspension. A driver assistance package adds automatic high beams, as well as blind spot warning.

The Executive package includes Merino leather interior, a power rear sunshade, a 360-degree camera, active headlights and integrated garage door opener. As for the Premium package, it adds front and rear parking sensors, head-up display, as well as satellite radio. If you can afford it, the Ultimate option combines these latter amenities into a single package.

At the time of writing, BMW has not yet published fuel consumption ratings for the 2020 version of its M4. However, these are expected to be similar, if not identical to last year's. Thus, with the manual transmission, the 2019 coupe showed fuel economy of 13.4 litres per 100 kilometres in the city, 9.6 litres on the highway. With the convertible, it was slightly higher. As for the coupe with automatic transmission, the averages showed 14.3 and 10.4 litres, respectively. The same applies to the convertible version with automatic transmission.