Unleashing the Beast: A Comprehensive Review of the Upgraded BMW M4 Carbahn CB3 Package

When it comes to well-engineered performance cars, BMW often stands at the forefront, and their M series is a testament to that tradition. But what if you could take an already spectacular car and transform it into a beast that challenges the limits of driving? This is exactly what Steve Dinan, a renowned name in the BMW tuning world, achieves with his Carbahn tuning company and the CB3 package tailored specifically for the BMW M4. While the stock M4 is already a marvel on its own, the modifications brought forth by Carbahn elevate the driving experience to exhilarating new heights.

The Visionary Behind the Magic: Who is Steve Dinan?

Before diving into the specifics of the CB3 package, let’s take a moment to appreciate who Steve Dinan is. Not merely a tuner, Dinan is a pioneering force in the BMW community, having made his mark by enhancing the performance and agility of these magnificent machines for years. After selling his namesake company in 2013, he went on to establish Carbahn, where his philosophy centers around achieving a balance between power and drivability. His goal isn’t just raw power; it’s about creating a car that handles beautifully and delivers an unforgettable driving experience. Dinan’s approach revolves around understanding that with great power should come great control, ensuring that you aren’t just going faster in a straight line but dominating corners and twisty roads alike.

Introducing the CB3 Package: What Does It Entail?

Now, let's break down the enhancements offered by the BMW M4 Competition xDrive equipped with the CB3 package. This modification is nothing short of transformative, focusing on both the powertrain and suspension to redefine performance. At the heart of this package is a modified engine software tune, coupled with a new air-to-water heat exchanger, a stainless steel exhaust, and a carbon fiber cold air intake—a combination that cranks up the power to a whopping 735 horsepower and 668 lb-ft of torque. These thrilling stats are not just numbers on paper; they translate to tangible performance on the road, with tests clocking it at 0-60 mph in merely 2.6 seconds. The thrill of acceleration in this upgraded M4 is akin to a whirl on a roller coaster, a unique adrenaline rush that few can boast.

Moreover, Carbahn didn’t stop at the engine alone; the suspension underwent an extensive makeover, introducing upgraded coilovers, stiffer anti-roll bars, and implementing a five-point carbon fiber strut tower brace for enhanced stability and feedback. With carbon ceramic brake technology in play, they ensured that stopping power is equally impressive, maintaining performance without compromising safety. Every element in the CB3 package is meticulously designed to offer not only raw power but also precision handling, ensuring that drivers get maximum feedback from the road without sacrificing comfort.

Carbon Fiber – The Dual Purpose Upgrade

The aesthetics of the vehicle are equally enhanced with numerous carbon fiber additions. These parts do more than just look good; they contribute to weight reduction and increased airflow, such as the redesigned carbon fiber front grille that boasts 40% more airflow compared to the standard option. You’ll find a complete suite of carbon fiber elements, including the engine bay cover, front splitter, and canards that provide the M4 with an aggressive stance while improving performance attributes. Additionally, these upgrades signal that this M4 is radically different from its stock counterpart, standing out on the road.

A Day Behind the Wheel: Real-World Test Drive

But all these figures and enhancements matter little without real-world application. After picking up the BMW M4 fitted with the CB3 package, I hit the scenic Angeles Crest Highway. With the thrill of the road ahead, I toggled between the M1 and M2 buttons, instantly feeling the distinctions in throttle response as I transitioned to spirited driving. The road was a mix of twists and turns, and the upgraded M4 handled every challenge with aplomb. Gone was the anxiety of oversteer; instead, the chassis felt planted, allowing me to apply brake pressure without worrying about body roll, while the rear-biased xDrive system seamlessly distributed power, resulting in a perfect balance between control and excitement.

As I traversed the undulating landscape, I was continually drawn to how the upgraded car retained its comfort while also exhibiting an exhilarating performance demeanor. The coilovers provided a responsive ride while not sacrificing the ride quality, essential for daily use. The thoughtful design of the suspension means that, despite being lower, it handled imperfections in the road with efficiency, ultimately allowing for spirited drives without sacrificing daily usability.

The Cost of Perfection: Is the CB3 Package Worth It?

So, what is the cost of achieving automotive nirvana? The complete price for the M4 with the CB3 package alongside other enhancements comes in just over $123,000. While this might seem steep at first glance, it is essential to appreciate what this investment grants you—supercar performance along with the practicality of a luxury sedan. In comparison, you’d find it hard to come across vehicles delivering similar performance metrics from competitors at a comparable price point, particularly with the comfort and functionality necessary for everyday use.

Final Thoughts: A Driving Experience Like No Other

Driving the Carbahn M4 infused me with a sense of belonging to an exclusive club where performance meets daily practicality. This is a car that not only generates excitement on the track but can dutifully serve as a comfortable cruiser during the week. While bidding farewell to the keys was bittersweet, the drive truly encapsulated what a tuner like Carbahn can achieve, transforming an already fantastic vehicle into a perfectly balanced masterpiece that Bedazzles the senses. In a world where speed often overshadows finesse, the CB3 package demonstrates that true performance lies in the balance, seamlessly blending speed, handling, and daily usability into one unforgettable machine.