2018 BMW M4: Light Updates (Literally)

BMW’s M4 has been a success at carrying the torch of the original M3 (the iconic M3 moniker has survived only on the four-door version, originally an afterthought). The downgrade from a high-revving V-8 to a twin-turbocharged inline-six has mostly helped the car. The lower peak revs and slightly less satisfying sound are offset by its higher, more accessible torque, and the lighter engine pairs well with the six-speed manual. For those who won’t be bothered rowing through gears manually, an equally competent seven-speed dual-clutch automatic is available, too.

BMW is upgrading the M4 for 2018 with only the slightest of facelifts. Unlike on the lesser 4-series models, BMW hasn’t touched the M-specific front and rear fascias. What it has done is replace the head- and taillights with the latest units. And that means the M4 gets more angular, rather futuristic LED eyes up front, while the rear sports new taillights with flowing graphics. The overall shape is unchanged front and rear, but brand aficionados should be able to spot the new light signature.

The interior gets a few changes as well: The front seats are now graced with illuminated M logos (the car is virtually littered with M logos), chrome is more liberally applied, and BMW has added double stitching on the instrument panel for a more upscale appearance. Finally, the infotainment screen is graced with new graphics.

What hasn’t changed, thankfully, is the aforementioned turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six, serving up 425 horsepower and a maximum of 406 lb-ft of torque. BMW still offers the Competition package, which increases output to 444 horsepower at 7000 rpm. This option also includes a less restrictive stability control system and a computer-controlled limited-slip differential, and it can be specified with black 20-inch wheels with a 666 designation that is full of symbolism.

The two body styles also continue: You can get the M4 as a coupe or as a convertible with a retractable hardtop. When the 2018 M4 hits dealerships this spring, its price will stay close to the current model, which retails for $67,195 in coupe form and $75,695 as a droptop. It continues to face competition from the Cadillac ATS-V, the Lexus RC F, and the Mercedes-AMG C63 coupe and cabriolet. At the Geneva auto show in March, another competitor will make its debut: the newest Audi RS5. Still, we expect that BMW’s M4 will continue to hold its own even among this strong field of contenders.