The BMW M4 Convertible shares the elegant lines of its open-top 4 Series siblings. Its design language allows it to skilfully blend a distinctive and graceful silhouette boasting finely balanced proportions when the roof is open with an exceptionally dynamic coupe line, shorn off B-pillars, with the hardtop closed. At the same time, the M4 Convertible's styling cues - including a signature power dome for the bonnet, eye-catching exterior mirrors in twinstalk style and flared front and rear wheel arches bulging over forged lightalloy wheels with mixed tyres in 18-inch (optional 19-inch) format - all identify it clearly as a member of the BMW M3/M4 model family.
Powering the BMW M4 Convertible is the newly developed six-cylinder in-line engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology and high-revving character already familiar from the M3 Sedan and M4 Coupe. The power unit generates maximum output of 317 kW/431 hp from its 3.0-litre displacement and serves up peak torque of 550 Newton metres (406 lb-ft) across a wide rev band. The BMW M4 Convertible therefore offers the driver not only exceptionally sporty performance attributes - the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) takes just 4.4 seconds (with the optional seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission) - but also sufficient reserves of power to cruise along in relaxed but rapid style with the roof down.
Like the BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupe, the BMW M4 Convertible also displays a strict adherence to the intelligent lightweight construction principle. For example, the bonnet and front side panels are made from aluminium, as are many components of the high-performance chassis. Added to which, ultra-lightweight and - thanks to its hugely impressive rigidity - also extremely durable carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) is employed in many areas of the new M4 Convertible. The drive shaft is one example, the use of CFRP allowing it to be constructed as a single-piece unit. This makes for a significant weight saving and a reduction in rotating masses. The CFRP precision strut in the engine compartment, meanwhile, weighs only 1.5 kilograms yet offers rigidity superior to that of a comparable aluminium component. It therefore plays a key part in the car's excellent steering response and precision.
The three-section folding metal roof of the BMW M4 Convertible has full interior lining and represents a compelling proposition with its excellent soundproofing and winter-proof construction. The roof opens at the touch of a button in under 20 seconds - while travelling at up to 18 km/h (11 mph), if required.
Complementing its already extensive standard specification, the new BMW M4 Convertible can also be ordered with a wealth of attractive options to further enhance its aesthetic appeal, dynamic prowess and comfort levels. And for that distinctive personal touch, the exclusive BMW Individual range of equipment offers the prospect of a unique driving experience. Special colours and materials can be fine-tuned to the driver's wishes.
With maximum output of 317 kW/431 hp available between 5,500 rpm and 7,300 rpm and peak torque of 550 Newton metres (406 lb-ft) on tap over an extremely broad rev band (1,850 rpm - 5,500 rpm), the BMW M4 Convertible's six-cylinder engine has the firepower to provide elite sports car levels of performance. Fitted with the standard six-speed manual gearbox, it needs just 4.6 seconds for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph), dropping to 4.4 seconds if the optional seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission is specified. Top speed is an electronically governed 250 km/h (155 mph). The M TwinPower Turbo engine hits maximum revs of 7,600 rpm and combines superior sporting ability with outstanding efficiency. Indeed, the BMW M4 Convertible posts fuel consumption of just 9.1 litres per 100 km / 31 mpg imp (M DCT: 8.7 l/100 km / 32.5 mpg imp) in the EU cycle - equating to CO2 emissions of 213 g/km (203 g/km) - and already meets the EU6 exhaust gas standard.
The new BMW M4 Convertible shares the sporty, dynamic looks of the BMW 4 Series Convertible on which it is based, but employs M-specific M design elements to underline its outstanding performance and lend it an unmistakable appearance.
The new BMW M4 Convertible is larger than its predecessor in terms of width, wheelbase and track width, and boasts perfectly balanced proportions. Its long bonnet, short front and rear overhangs, and set-back passenger compartment are all key contributors to the car's hallmark BMW lines. When closed, the three-part folding metal hardtop seals a harmonious yet dynamic coupe form, unruffled by B-pillars. When the roof is open, the side view of the BMW M4 Convertible displays a zesty elegance and is encumbered by neither the rollover protection system - now hidden away fully from view behind the rear head restraints - nor aerials (e.g. for the radio).
Less than a year on from the debut of the fourth-generation BMW M3 Coupe and the four-door Sedan that followed a little later, BMW stirred the fires of anticipation among open-air driving enthusiasts with the launch of the BMW M3 Convertible in spring 2008. A 4.0-litre eight-cylinder engine generating 309 kW/420 hp - and sustaining around 85 per cent of its 400 Newton metre (295 lb-ft) peak torque across a rev range of 6,500 rpm - gave drivers of the drop-top four-seater an impressive armoury with which to sate their appetite for sporty, dynamic corner-chasing and relaxed cruising alike.