The all-new 2015 BMW M4 Convertible arrives in US showrooms this summer to join the M3 Sedan and M4 Coupe. It is propelled by the same BMW 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder engine like its siblings, and is good for churning out 425 horsepower with 406 pound feet of torque. The engine can be mated to either seven-speed M DCT or six-speed manual transmission. The new M4 Convertible makes its world debut at the 2014 New York International Motor Show and the Suggested Retail Price will be $73,425, including handling and destination.
The new engine sees a power upgrade over the previous V8 to 425 horsepower, which is delivered between 5500 and 7300 rpm. Peak torque has been increased by roughly 40% to 406 pound feet, and is maintained over a very wide rev band (1850–5500 rpm). The sprint from 0 to 60 miles per hour takes the M4 Convertible just 4.4 seconds with the six-speed manual. Equipped with seven-speed M Double Clutch, this number falls to 4.2 seconds. Top speed is 155 mph (electronically limited). The BMW M TwinPower Turbo engine hits maximum revs of 7600 rpm, in keeping with the typically high-revving character of M powerplants.
The M TwinPower Turbo technology consists of High Precision Direct Injection, two fast-responding mono-scroll turbochargers, Double VANOS continuously variable camshaft timing and Valvetronic variable valve timing. Double-VANOS and Valvetronic work in tandem to flawlessly control intake valve lift. The result is very sharp response, reduced emissions and fuel consumption and efficient and smooth power delivery. The optional Adaptive M suspension likewise comes with SPORT, SPORT+ and COMFORT modes. The 2015 BMW M4 Convertible comes standard with M compound brakes; however shopper can also order their vehicle with even more effective and lighter M carbon ceramic brakes, which boast the additional visual highlight of gold painted calipers.
In addition to exceptional dynamic qualities, intelligent lightweight design also allows the 2015 BMW M4 Convertible to claim exemplary efficiency. Its extensive weight-saving measures produce a curb weight of just 4055 lbs – around 90 pounds less as compared to previous model. The CFRP strut brace in the engine compartment is a further example of how all weight saving measures on these cars have also been customized to the enhancement of driving dynamics. Weighing just 3.3 pounds, the strut brace provides superior rigidity to a comparable aluminum component and at the same time plays a key part in the excellent steering response and precision of both vehicles. The use of carbon is a reminder that the Bavarian automaker is a global leader in lightweight, high-strength CFRP construction, and that it was BMW who brought out the first mass-production vehicle with body consisting entirely of this material – the innovative BMW i3.
The M4 Convertible’s profile extends the dynamic impression created by its front end. The hallmark BMW proportions of long wheelbase, a long hood, short front overhang and set-back glasshouse are lent further emphasis by familiar M design elements. Those dynamics accentuating details include likewise newly designed M gills, which perform both a functional and a stylistic role. Incorporated into them are Air Breathers, which team up with Air Curtains in the front apron to help optimize the airflow around the wheel arches and therefore enhance aerodynamics.
Climbing into the 2015 BMW M4 Convertible, drivers will be greeted by an interior architecture complete with clear driver focus and unimpeachable ergonomics. In keeping with its character, the interior fulfills an even more sharply defined sporting brief. To this end, the host of conventional BMW M equipment details includes an M driver’s footrest, M door sill finishers, M-design circular instruments with white graphics, M gearshift lever, electroplated-look shift paddles and M leather steering wheel with chrome trim, color contrast stitching. The M4 Convertible stands out with an interior, which is functional and exclusive in equal measure. For example, the bucket-style M sports seats are standard, as is the M Sport leather multifunction steering wheel. New to this generation of Convertible are the available three-temperature neck warmers, which allow for comfortable open-air driving at low temperatures and high speeds.
Needless to say, the BMW M4 Convertible is also available with wide range of mobility services and driver assistance systems launched under the BMW ConnectedDrive banner, some of which are already familiar from the BMW M4 Coupe and BMW M3 Sedan. Amongst the highlights are the new generation of the Navigation System providing sharper graphics, 3D elements for map display and extra capability, the intelligent anti- dazzle LED High Beam Assistant, Active Protection with Attention Assistant and Driving Assistant Plus, which warns the driver of a looming collision with a pedestrian or vehicle.
The optional Head-Up Display comes with additional, M-specific functions such as rev counter, Optimum Shift Indicator and a gear display. The all-new 2015 BMW M4 Convertible will arrive in US showrooms this summer, in time to capture ideal top-down weather.
