Quick answer:
The 2024 BMW M4 is a high-performance luxury sports car starting at $78,100 for the base manual Coupe and up to $93,300 for the Competition xDrive Convertible. Powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 473 or 503 horsepower, the key upgrade for the 2024 model year is the addition of the BMW Curved Display running the iDrive 8 operating system.

Key takeaways:

  • The base model features a standard six-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive.
  • Competition models come with an eight-speed automatic transmission, with the xDrive all-wheel-drive system delivering 0-60 mph times as quick as 2.8 seconds in testing.
  • Inside, the dashboard is refreshed with a dual-screen Curved Display integrating a 12.3-inch gauge cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen.
  • Unlike the standard 4 Series, the 2024 M4 retains a traditional gear shifter lever instead of the minimalist toggle switch.
  • The track-focused suspension makes for a stiff ride on rough pavement, and rear-seat space is cramped.

2024 BMW M4 Trim Levels and MSRP

The 2024 BMW M4 is available in four configurations across coupe and convertible body styles. The starting prices below represent the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) and do not include the mandatory $995 destination charge.

Trim Body Style Powertrain Drivetrain Starting MSRP
M4 Coupe Coupe 473 hp / 6-Speed Manual RWD $78,100
M4 Competition Coupe Coupe 503 hp / 8-Speed Automatic RWD $82,200
M4 Competition xDrive Coupe Coupe 503 hp / 8-Speed Automatic AWD $86,300
M4 Competition xDrive Convertible Convertible 503 hp / 8-Speed Automatic AWD $93,300

Opting for the Competition trim adds a $4,100 premium over the base model. This price increase provides an extra 30 horsepower, a torque bump, and launch control capabilities, though it removes the option for a manual gearbox. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system requires an additional $4,100, which is highly recommended for drivers seeking maximum acceleration and all-weather traction. Compared to the previous 2023 BMW M4, starting prices have increased slightly, though the underlying performance specifications remain consistent.

Performance Specs and Powertrain

Every version of the 2024 M4 uses BMW’s S58 twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine. This power unit features a closed-deck block design, a forged crankshaft, and 3D-printed cylinder head cores to optimize cooling and strength.

  • Base M4 Coupe: 473 horsepower at 6,250 rpm and 406 lb-ft of torque from 2,650 to 6,130 rpm.
  • Competition Models (Coupe & Convertible): 503 horsepower at 6,250 rpm and 479 lb-ft of torque from 2,750 to 5,500 rpm.

Transmission Options: Physical Stick Shift vs. 8-Speed Automatic

The base M4 Coupe remains one of the last high-performance cars in its class to offer a standard six-speed manual transmission, sending power exclusively to the rear wheels. The manual transmission features a gear shift assistant (rev-matching), which can be disabled in the vehicle settings.

The interior cabin of a 2024 BMW M4 highlighting the physical gear shifter and Curved Display

Competition variants are equipped only with the ZF-sourced eight-speed M Steptronic automatic transmission. This automatic unit features Drivelogic control, allowing drivers to adjust shift speeds across three distinct modes.

Enthusiasts should note a key interior detail: while standard 2024 BMW 4 Series models (such as the 430i and M440i) adopted a minimalist toggle gear selector on the center console, the high-performance 2024 M4 retains a traditional gear shifter lever for the automatic transmission and a classic physical stick shift for the manual. This keeps a physical, tactile connection to the transmission that many sports car buyers prefer.

Acceleration Times and Top Speed

The difference in acceleration between the manual RWD base model and the automatic AWD models is significant.

  • Base Coupe (Manual, RWD): 0-60 mph in 3.8 seconds in independent testing, compared to a 4.1-second BMW estimate.
  • Competition Coupe (Automatic, RWD): 0-60 mph in 3.4 seconds.
  • Competition xDrive Coupe (AWD): 0-60 mph in 2.8 seconds in independent testing, making it one of the quickest accelerating vehicles in its price range. The quarter-mile time is recorded at 11.0 seconds at 122 mph.
  • Competition xDrive Convertible (AWD): 0-60 mph in 3.3 seconds.

Top speed is electronically restricted to 155 mph. However, ordering the optional M Driver’s Package raises this speed ceiling to 180 mph for the convertible and 193 mph for the coupe trims.

Interior Design and BMW Curved Display

The most obvious update for the 2024 model year is inside the cabin. BMW replaced the previous dashboard layout with the BMW Curved Display running the iDrive 8 software.

This hardware setup consists of a single piece of curved glass that houses two screens:

  1. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster directly in front of the driver.
  2. A 14.9-inch touchscreen in the center of the dashboard.

This digital update replaces the physical climate buttons and the traditional dashboard buttons of the older iDrive 7 system. While it gives the interior a clean and modern design, some drivers find the system less intuitive because common adjustments, such as fan speed and seat heating, must now be done through touchscreen menus.

Smartphone integration via wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto is standard. The system also includes over-the-air software updates, cloud-based navigation, and voice command controls that adjust settings like the climate control or ambient lighting.

Daily Usability, Suspension, and Cabin Comfort

The M4 is a sports car that can be driven daily, but it requires comfort compromises. The standard adaptive M suspension uses electronically controlled dampers to adjust stiffness. Even in the softest Comfort setting, the ride is stiff and transmits road imperfections directly into the cabin. Aggressive bumps can feel harsh on broken pavement.

M Sport Seats vs. M Carbon Buckets

Buyers can choose between two main seat options:

  • Standard M Sport Seats: Highly adjustable, heated, and comfortable for long-distance driving.
  • M Carbon Bucket Seats: Part of the optional Carbon Package, these shell seats save 21 pounds and offer excellent side support for track driving. However, the high, rigid side bolsters make climbing in and out of the car difficult, and they lack comfort during daily commutes.

Trunk Capacity and Rear Passenger Space

The M4 offers a standard two-plus-two seating layout. The rear seats are tight for adults, providing only 34.5 inches of legroom. Getting into the back seat of the coupe requires sliding the front seats forward, which is slow and inconvenient. The rear seats are best reserved for children or cargo.

Trunk capacity varies by body style:

  • Coupe: 12.0 cubic feet of cargo room. The rear seats fold down in a 40/20/40 configuration to accommodate longer items like golf bags or luggage.
  • Convertible: 9.0 cubic feet of cargo room when the soft top is down.

Fuel Economy and Real-World Range

Performance remains the primary focus of the M4, resulting in modest fuel efficiency. The EPA fuel economy estimates for the 2024 models are detailed below:

  • Base Coupe (Manual) & Competition Coupe (RWD): 16 mpg city, 23 mpg highway, and 19 mpg combined.
  • Competition xDrive Coupe & Convertible (AWD): 16 mpg city, 22 mpg highway, and 18 mpg combined.

The M4 is equipped with a 15.6-gallon fuel tank. Based on the EPA combined estimate of 18-19 mpg, drivers can expect a maximum highway driving range of approximately 280 to 296 miles per tank. Aggressive driving or track use will drop real-world fuel economy closer to 12-14 mpg, reducing the range significantly. Premium fuel (91 octane or higher) is mandatory to prevent engine knock and maintain full horsepower output.

S58 Engine Reliability and Common Mechanical Issues

High-performance BMW M models require strict adherence to maintenance schedules. Unlike older generation M cars, the S58 engine has proven to be highly robust. It is important to separate actual S58 issues from older S55 engine vulnerabilities.

Underhood shot of the twin-turbocharged S58 inline-six engine in a 2024 BMW M4

Keyed Crank Hub Resolution

A common concern for older BMW M cars (like the F82 generation M4 with the S55 engine) was spun crank hubs, which could cause catastrophic engine failure. In the S58 engine powering the G82 M4, BMW resolved this by utilizing a keyed crank hub design. Crank hub failures are virtually non-existent on stock 2024 M4 models and are only a consideration for cars running extreme aftermarket power tunes.

Long-Term Wear Points

While the engine block is durable, owners of high-mileage G82 models should monitor these common wear areas:

  • Oil Filter Housing Gasket (OFHG) Leaks: Over time, the gasket between the oil filter housing and the engine block degrades. This can leak oil onto the serpentine belt, which is a hazard if the belt slips off and gets sucked into the front main seal.
  • Valve Cover Gaskets: High engine operating temperatures degrade the rubber valve cover gaskets over time. This typically manifests as oil dripping onto hot exhaust components, creating smoke and burning smells.
  • PCV Valve Diaphragm Wear: The positive crankcase ventilation diaphragm is integrated into the plastic valve cover assembly. A torn diaphragm leads to vacuum leaks, rough idling, and whistling noises. Replacing a failed PCV diaphragm usually requires replacing the entire valve cover assembly.
  • High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Faults: S58 engines pushed to high mileage can experience wear on the high-pressure fuel pumps, leading to long crank times, warning lights, or reduced engine output.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

The 2024 M4 is backed by a standard warranty package:

  • New Vehicle Limited Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles.
  • Powertrain Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles.
  • BMW Ultimate Care: 3 years or 36,000 miles of complimentary scheduled maintenance (including engine oil and oil filter changes, brake fluid flushes, and cabin filter replacements).

BMW M4 Competitors: Porsche, Audi, and Mercedes-AMG

The high-performance luxury segment offers several alternatives to the M4:

  • Mercedes-AMG C 63 S Coupe: AMG models are highly engaging but transitioned to complex, heavy hybrid drivetrains. The M4 offers a lighter, more traditional combustion experience.
  • Audi RS5 Coupe: Powered by a 444-hp twin-turbo V-6, the RS5 offers a more comfortable ride and a quieter cabin than the M4, making it a better daily driver. However, it lacks the handling sharpness and track capability of the BMW.
  • Porsche 718 Cayman GTS 4.0: A mid-engine sports car with a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six making 394 hp. It provides superior steering feel and balance, but it is more expensive, lacks rear seats entirely, and offers less cargo space.
  • Lexus RC F: The RC F uses a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V-8 producing 472 hp. It offers excellent long-term reliability and a unique exhaust note, but its heavy chassis and outdated technology make it less competitive on a track.

BMW M3 vs. BMW M4

Buyers choosing between the M3 sedan and the M4 coupe should consider daily practicality. Both cars share the S58 engine, transmission options, and performance numbers. The M3 offers four doors, easier access to the rear seats, and comfortable seating for four adults. Choose the M4 only if you prefer the styling of a traditional two-door coupe and do not plan to carry passengers in the rear seats regularly.

For a detailed look at how this platform evolved in other model years, read our 2025 BMW M4 Review or check the latest 2026 BMW M4 Review for comparison. For an older option, you can also view the 2023 BMW M4 Review. For all M4 models, visit the BMW M4 Hub.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the 2024 BMW M4 have a manual transmission?

Yes. The base 2024 BMW M4 Coupe comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive. The Competition and Competition xDrive trims are automatic-only.

What is the 0-60 mph time of the 2024 BMW M4 Competition xDrive?

The 2024 BMW M4 Competition xDrive Coupe has a manufacturer-claimed 0-60 mph time of 3.4 seconds, but independent tests have recorded times as quick as 2.8 seconds.

Did the 2024 BMW M4 get the toggle gear shifter?

No. While standard 4 Series models received a toggle shifter, the 2024 M4 retains the traditional physical M gear selector lever.

🎨 Image Prompts