Unleashing the 2025 BMW M4 Competition: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly Truth

When it comes to driver-focused performance cars, few brands can match the pedigree of BMW, particularly with its renowned M division. Spending a week behind the wheel of the new 2025 BMW M4 Competition was a privilege, allowing for an in-depth exploration of both its strengths and weaknesses. By immersing ourselves in a variety of driving scenarios, we could genuinely appreciate how this beast performs in the real world. While the M4 Competition dazzles in many respects, it’s not without its quirks and pitfalls. Today, we delve into five features that genuinely wowed us and five aspects that left us pondering.

Five Things We Love About the 2025 BMW M4 Competition

1. Carbon Bucket Seats

First up are the carbon bucket seats, which truly elevate the M4 Competition's interior aesthetics and performance. Previously exclusive to select models, these seats provide a snug fit that keeps you firmly planted during spirited drives. Not only do they look stunning, particularly in the vibrant Yas Marina Blue with a yellow accent, but they also excel in functionality. Whether you’re carving corners on a track or cruising on the highway, these seats deliver a level of support that enhances driver confidence.

2. Unmatched Engine Responsiveness

Under the hood lies the S58 engine, delivering a power push that is nothing short of exhilarating. The M4 Competition's power ranges from 473 to 523 horsepower, with our rear-wheel drive model boasting a robust 503 horsepower. The intuitive throttle response quickens your heart rate as you unleash this powerhouse on open roads, allowing for rapid changes in speed without hesitation. Coupled with an aggressive exhaust note, driving the M4 becomes a sensory treat.

3. Impressive iDrive System

BMW's iDrive 8.5 technology is a standout feature in the 2025 M4 Competition. Renowned for its snappy response times and intuitive functionality, the system seamlessly integrates with the driving experience without overshadowing it. Concerns about tech overload affecting driving pleasure quickly faded as everything from navigation to media controls felt simple and accessible. The controls are designed to support rather than interfere with an exhilarating driving experience.

4. Surprisingly Spacious Rear Seats

Perhaps one of the most unexpected aspects of the M4 Competition is the surprisingly ample rear seat space. While sports coupes often compromise on backseat comfort, our experience revealed that even taller passengers can enjoy a comfortable ride without feeling cramped. Comments from friends echoed each other's sentiments that the rear seats offered more room than expected, delineating a user-friendly car environment.

5. Exceptional Braking and Grip

Equipped with optional M Carbon Ceramic brakes, our test car provided a captivating braking feel and stellar grip. Thanks to a sophisticated setup, including staggered 19- and 20-inch wheel packages, the M4 offers remarkable performance under pressure—whether it’s rapid deceleration during cornering or maintaining composure on winding roads.

Five Disappointments We Encountered

1. Controversial Design Choices

The design language of the new M4 continues to be a topic of heated debate. Many regard its aesthetics as polarizing, with the oversized grille taking center stage. While some might appreciate the boldness of this design, it undeniably risks alienating traditionalists who cherish BMW’s more subtle elegance. The new headlights and taillights do offer a modern touch, but for some enthusiasts, they may not compensate for the grille’s overwhelming presence.

2. Carbon Bucket Seat Accessibility

While we praised the carbon bucket seats, they do come at a price in practicality. Constantly climbing in and out can lead to discomfort over time, and one may find themselves questioning their decision after a long ride. Additionally, with such rigid bolsters, concerns arise about durability over extended use; will these seats maintain their form after repeated entry and exit?

3. The M4's Size Disadvantage

Despite its remarkable agility, the 2025 M4 Competition still reveals its heft on tighter, twistier roads. At its longest and widest dimensions yet, the M4 has a substantial presence that can be felt on narrow tracks. That said, the car’s impressive power and well-tuned chassis help diminish this feeling when tackling straightaways and aggressive cornering.

4. High Price Tag

With an MSRP swiftly reaching nearly $109,000, the M4 Competition certainly requires a substantial financial commitment. While the base model starts around $80,000, the allure of high-end options can create a vehicle priced for the elite buyer. Comparatively, one must weigh this against alternative options available on the used market, which could yield a rich driving experience without a fresh sticker shock.

5. Lack of Driver Engagement

The M4 is undeniably a polished machine, but some enthusiasts may find it lacking in emotional connection. The advanced chassis and supple powertrain exhibit such prowess that they can insulate the driver from the true essence of performance driving. In this respect, the experience might feel too effortless or sterile for those seeking a deeper, rawer connection with their vehicle.

Conclusion

The 2025 BMW M4 Competition captivates with its blend of power, cutting-edge technology, and luxurious features, but it's not entirely without its pitfalls. The thrills it offers continue to make it a standout in the performance coupe segment. By understanding both its loveable qualities and understandable drawbacks, prospective buyers will be better poised to make informed decisions. Whether it is in the exhilarating acceleration or the daily-drivable comfort, the M4 Competition undoubtedly makes a compelling case for itself.