2015 BMW M4 convertible breaks cover
Ahead of its debut at the New York International Auto Show, BMW has officially unveiled pictures of the M4 convertible. The new addition to the power-packed M line-up is based on the M4 coupe and has the added benefit of immeasurable headroom. The drop-top version will feature a retractable hard top which can be lowered in 20 seconds at a speed of up to 18kmph.
Sharing identical powertrains with the M4 Coupe, the convertible is powered by a 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged straight six engine developing 425bhp and 550Nm of torque mated to either a 6-speed manual gearbox or 7-speed double clutch transmission. The manual transmission enables the M4 convertible to zoom to 0–100kmph in 4.6 seconds while the DCT shaves 0.2 seconds more. The car has an electronically limited top-speed of 250kmph irrespective of the transmissions.
Though the M4 convertible has shed around 60kg over its predecessor, the M3 convertible, with the use of aluminium and carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP), the convertible is heavier than the M4 coupe by 253kg which results in 0.3 second slower 0–100kmph timings compared to the coupe in both transmissions.
Visually identical to the coupe except for the hardtop, the M4 convertible also comes with a host of M division performance upgrades including Active M Differential — which enhances traction and directional stability with the help of an electronically controlled multi-plate limited-slip differential. The electromechanical steering system offers Comfort, Sport and Sport+ modes to allow the driver to change the level of steering assistance to suit their personal tastes. The addition of ceramic brakes rounds off the M package.
