The BMW M4 (F82) with the 3.0-liter (431 hp) engine paired with a dual-clutch transmission (DCT) represents a significant iteration in BMW’s high-performance coupe lineage. Produced from 2014 to 2020, the F82 M4 was the successor to the E92 M3 coupe, marking a return to the “M4” designation for the coupe/convertible models while the sedan retained the M3 name. This variant, boasting a potent turbocharged inline-six engine and a sophisticated transmission, aimed to deliver a thrilling driving experience while maintaining a degree of everyday usability. It quickly became a benchmark in the sports coupe segment, praised for its balance of power, handling, and technology.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | M4 |
| Generation | M4 (F82) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 (431 Hp) DCT |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 11.1 l/100 km (21.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 194 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 431 Hp @ 5500-7300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 144.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 550 Nm @ 1850-5500 rpm (405.66 lb.-ft. @ 1850-5500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | S55B30A |
| Engine displacement | 2979 cm3 (181.79 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89.6 mm (3.53 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 13.9 l (14.69 US qt | 12.23 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1537 kg (3388.5 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2040 kg (4497.43 lbs.) |
| Max load | 503 kg (1108.93 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 445 l (15.72 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4671 mm (183.9 in.) |
| Width | 1870 mm (73.62 in.) |
| Height | 1383 mm (54.45 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2812 mm (110.71 in.) |
| Front track | 1579 mm (62.17 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1603 mm (63.11 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 121 mm (4.76 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.34 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.2 m (40.03 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DCT |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 255/40 ZR18 95Y; 275/40 ZR18 99Y |
| Wheel rims size | 9.0J x 18; 10.0J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the F82 M4 is the S55B30A, a 3.0-liter inline-six engine. This engine is a significant departure from the naturally aspirated engines of previous M3/M4 generations, embracing turbocharging to deliver increased power and torque. The S55 features a twin-scroll, single-turbocharger setup, direct fuel injection, and variable valve timing (VANOS) and valve lift (Valvetronic) technologies. These technologies work in concert to optimize engine performance across the rev range. The engine produces 431 horsepower at 5,500-7,300 rpm and 406 lb-ft of torque between 1,850 and 5,500 rpm.
The DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) is a seven-speed automated manual transmission. It utilizes two separate clutches – one for odd-numbered gears and one for even-numbered gears – allowing for incredibly fast and smooth gear changes. The DCT offers both automatic and manual shifting modes, with paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel for driver control. This transmission was chosen for its ability to deliver rapid shifts and efficient power delivery, enhancing the overall driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0-liter DCT-equipped M4 offers a distinctly different driving experience compared to its manual transmission counterparts. The DCT provides near-instantaneous shifts, particularly in the more aggressive driving modes. This results in quicker acceleration and a more connected feel. While the manual transmission M4 prioritizes driver engagement, the DCT version excels in providing consistent, high-performance shifts. The gear ratios are tuned to maximize acceleration, with a relatively short final drive. The power delivery is linear and predictable, making the car accessible to drivers of varying skill levels. However, some critics noted that the DCT could feel slightly less engaging than a traditional manual gearbox.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The M4 came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including leather upholstery, power-adjustable sport seats, a premium sound system, and a navigation system. Standard exterior features included an aggressive aerodynamic package, quad exhaust outlets, and M-specific alloy wheels. Optional extras included carbon fiber trim, upgraded leather options, a head-up display, and a driver assistance package with features like lane departure warning and blind-spot monitoring. The Competition Package, introduced later in the production run, added further performance enhancements, including a more aggressive engine tune, adaptive suspension, and upgraded brakes.
Chassis & Braking
The F82 M4 features a sophisticated chassis designed for optimal handling and stability. The suspension consists of independent coil springs at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. The chassis is reinforced with additional bracing to improve rigidity. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at all four corners, with large calipers providing ample stopping power. The M4 also incorporates advanced electronic stability control (ESC) and traction control systems to enhance safety and control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The F82 M4 was widely praised by automotive critics for its performance, handling, and technology. It was often compared to rivals such as the Porsche 911 and the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG. The DCT transmission received mixed reviews, with some praising its speed and efficiency while others preferred the engagement of a manual gearbox. Fuel economy was respectable for a high-performance coupe, with combined figures around 28.3 US mpg. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the cooling system and oil leaks.
Legacy
The F82 M4 has established itself as a highly desirable sports coupe in the used car market. The 3.0-liter DCT variant remains a popular choice among enthusiasts, offering a compelling blend of performance, technology, and practicality. The S55 engine, while complex, has proven to be relatively durable when properly maintained. The F82 M4 represents a pivotal moment in BMW’s M car history, marking the transition to turbocharged engines and advanced transmission technologies. It continues to be celebrated for its driving dynamics and its status as a modern classic.
