M Performance boost for BMW 4 Series

THIS is the BMW 4 Series with an M Performance Pack, and it’s probably a fair indication of what to expect from the looks of the new M4 coupe, due later this year.

While the M3 replacement won’t emerge for a few months – reputedly at the Frankfurt motor show in September - the M performance package seen here gives us a decent preview of the hottest 4 Series.

However, local buyers keen on this ‘psuedo-M4’ will have to hold their horses, because the company says the package won’t be coming Down Under any time soon.

Additions include an aggressive blacked-out grille and redesigned front bumper with a carbon splitter, as well as 20-inch alloy wheels, side stripes, side skirting with M Performance inscription, black external mirror caps and a rear spoiler.

Cabin updates include a new three-spoke steering wheel with ‘Race Display’, M Performance-branded floor mats, steel pedals plus specially designed drivers footrest and carbon-fibre/suede gearshift lever, handbrake and dash highlights.

Naturally, the 4 Series M Performance gains a few tweaks under the bonnet, with a power increase of up to 25kW and 50Nm depending on the variant the pack is optioned with.

The 2.0-litre diesel 420d is reportedly up 12kW/39Nm to 145kW/418Nm and the 2.0-litre turbo-petrol 428i gets an increase of 20kW/39Nm to 200kW/389Nm. Power for the flagship 435i gets a 25kW/50Nm kick to 260kW and 450Nm of torque.

Suspension is altered for a sportier ride and the M Performance pack includes a limited-slip differential with a 30 per cent lock-up and bigger brakes with red calipers.

BMW is set to launch the 4 Series range in Australia in the fourth quarter of this year, but says the M Performance pack will not be available in Australia at this stage.

However, the German car-maker will offer an M Sport package that includes a bodykit, tweaked suspension and sportier interior touches such as sports seats at the time of launch.