The G80 M4, equipped with a potent 503-hp twin-turbo straight-six engine (in Competition spec), and boasting significant chassis enhancements, is undeniably a performance powerhouse. Road & Track’s team took the M4 to Lime Rock Park to explore its limits. The experience left them with mixed feelings, highlighting a recurring theme: immense capability tempered by a somewhat clinical driving experience.
One of the most polarizing aspects of the G80 M4 is its styling, particularly the oversized kidney grille. This design element has become a major talking point, dividing opinions sharply. As Mack Hogan, Associate Editor at Road & Track, puts it, “While I’d have no trouble recommending one as a do-it-all car, I can’t personally get over how heinously ugly they are.” This sentiment echoes widespread online criticism of the G80 generation’s bold new aesthetic.
Beyond the grille, the overall styling of the G80 M4 sparked debate among the reviewers. While some appreciated the aggressive stance and flared fenders, others found the design disjointed. Bob Sorokanich, Deputy Editor, humorously pointed out the contrast of “race car” front seats in a car that otherwise resembles a typical sedan, highlighting a potential disconnect between the M4’s performance intentions and its sometimes understated (excluding the grille) appearance.
Inside the G80 M4, the optional M carbon bucket seats were another point of discussion. Praised for their excellent support and ability to position the driver low in the car, enhancing the sense of connection to the road, they were also criticized for their aggressive bolsters. Travis Okulski, Editor-at-Large, noted they are “excellent, supportive and comfortable,” but also “aggressive and make it hard to get in or out,” with a center piece that uncomfortably rubs against the legs. Despite these minor drawbacks, the seats contribute to a track-focused driving position.
On the track at Lime Rock, the G80 M4’s performance capabilities shone brightly. The reviewers lauded the car’s immense front-end grip, a result of BMW’s sophisticated adaptive M dampers, Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, and chassis engineering. Aaron Brown, Digital Editor, described the cornering experience as so intense he felt his “innards were being thrashed around.” This highlights the G80 M4’s ability to generate serious lateral forces and maintain composure even under extreme driving conditions.
Despite initial reservations about its character, the G80 M4 impressed the Road & Track team with its balance and driver engagement on the track. Okulski noted the car is “Eager to slide and controllable. Great grip from the rear under power, and predictable when it does go away.” This indicates that while the G80 M4 might initially feel clinical, it rewards skilled drivers with playful handling and predictable dynamics at the limit.
The steering, while accurate and direct, was described as lacking in feel, a common trait in modern BMWs. Hogan called it “Absurdly quick and incredibly precise,” but Perkins added, “The steering is accurate, but totally numb.” This suggests that while the G80 M4 responds sharply to steering inputs, it doesn’t provide the same level of tactile feedback that enthusiasts might crave in a performance car.
Both the M3 Competition and the base M4 tested were powered by BMW’s S58 twin-turbo inline-six engine. The Competition model, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, produces 503 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. The base M4, equipped with a six-speed manual, delivers 473 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. The engine was universally praised for its abundant power and torque across the rev range. Perkins described it as “a monster, but it feels like any other modern BMW turbo six, albeit with more power and a slug of torque,” suggesting a familiar, albeit highly potent, BMW engine character.
The availability of a six-speed manual transmission in the base G80 M4 was welcomed by enthusiasts. However, the manual transmission in the test car was described as less engaging than expected. Sorokanich noted the light clutch pedal, automatic rev-matching, and abundant torque made it feel like “you don’t really feel like you need to work the car.” This suggests that while the manual is present, it might not offer the raw, involving experience some drivers seek. Opinions on the manual varied, with some appreciating the slightly greater engagement it offered, while others found it “rubbery” and “tough to shift quickly,” as Okulski described.
Price is another significant factor in the G80 M4 equation. The test cars, loaded with options, approached the $100,000 mark. Contributing Editor John Krewson pointed out that at this price point, the “for that money” reflex kicks in, prompting consideration of alternatives, including the Porsche 911. While the G80 M4 offers immense performance, its price raises questions about its overall value proposition in the competitive high-performance car market.
In conclusion, the BMW G80 M4 is undeniably a spectacularly capable machine, blending road car comfort with impressive track performance. It delivers mega performance with approachable limits and impressive lap times. However, the Road & Track review suggests that while the G80 M4 excels in objective metrics, it might lack some of the subjective fun and emotional engagement that characterized previous generations of M cars. As Hogan summarized, “Overall, I like them both, but love neither. They’re stupid-fast, highly competent performance cars, but after the initial new car excitement wears off, they feel sterile.” The G80 M4 is a technical marvel, but whether it captures the hearts of driving purists remains a matter of personal preference.
