F82 BMW M4 Coupe (2014-2021) Buyer’s Guide

Shopping for an F82-generation BMW M4? Let’s examine this high-performance coupe’s strengths and weaknesses, things to look out for and what you can expect to pay for a good used example…

In some ways, BMW’s F82-gen coupe represented a radical departure for the Bavarian brand’s high-performance M division. But in others, the M4 marked a return to the Munich-based marque’s roots.

For instance, while its E92-gen predecessor (which was badged an M3, because it was based on the platform of the E90 3 Series – the E92 coupe was succeeded by the F80 4 Series in 2013, hence the F82’s M4 moniker) employed a naturally aspirated V8 engine, the M4 switched to a twin-turbocharged inline-6-cylinder motor, effectively sounding the death knell for the atmospheric M car. Yes, for the first time in the series’ then 28-year history, BMW M GmbH had turned to the dark art of forced induction.

On the other hand, the F82 BMW M4’s freshly developed 3.0-litre powerplant featured 6 cylinders neatly arranged in a straight line (rather than 8 cylinders laid out in a “V”, as was the case with the E92 M3), returning to a configuration favoured by the E36 and E46 versions of the M3. In addition, production of the M4 was assigned to BMW Plant Munich, the very site where the original E30 M3 was built.

Of course, as part of a bold nomenclature shuffle, this was also the first model to wear the M4 badge, as all body styles in the previous 4 generations had gone by the M3 name (whether shaped like a sedan, convertible or indeed coupe). With the launch of the F30-gen 3 Series, BMW opted to spin off the 2-door variants to create the 4 Series, a move that was also applied to the performance derivatives.

We’ll focus on the M4 Coupe in this Buyer’s Guide, making only a passing reference to the slower-selling F83-gen M4 Convertible, which had a 3-part metal folding top. For the record, the coupe came standard with a carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) roof, but that fell away if the buyer specified a sunroof.

F82 BMW M4 Coupe in South Africa

Previewed by the Concept M4 Coupe displayed at Pebble Beach in August 2013, BMW released official images and details of the production model – as well as those of the closely related F80 M3 Sedan – in December of that year. Both the M3 and M4 were then shown at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in January 2014.

By July 2014, the high-performance twins had touched down in South Africa. At launch, the M4 Coupe was available with either a 6-speed manual gearbox or a quick-shifting 7-speed M double-clutch transmission (DCT), with the latter facilitating both a quicker 0-100 kph time (4.1 sec versus 4.3 sec) and a lower combined fuel consumption (8.3 L/100 km versus 8.8 L/100 km). A 1-day “High-Performance Driving Experience” course was included in the price.

• M4 (317 kW/550 Nm) 6MT
• M4 (317 kW/550 Nm) 7DCT

The M4 Convertible followed in November 2014, which was around the same time BMW Group SA launched the M Driver’s Package for the M3, M4, M5 and M6 portfolios. In the case of the M4 Coupe, checking this then-R25 000 box saw the vehicle’s top speed hiked from the standard 250 kph to 280 kph (though this new Vmax would kick in only once the obligatory 2 000 km run-in period and subsequent inspection had been completed).

Models produced from March 2016, meanwhile, were available with an optional Competition Package that added 14 kW (for a total of 331 kW), cutting the respective 0-100 kph times by 0.1 sec. This upgrade furthermore included the otherwise optional Adaptive M Suspension, “exclusive” 20-inch multi-spoke M alloy wheels, lightweight M sports seats, extended BMW Individual high-gloss Shadow Line exterior trim and the M sports exhaust system (complete with black chrome tailpipes).

By August 2016, the M4 GTS had made its debut in Mzansi, billed as the “most agile, radical and dynamically potent model in the range”. Just 23 units were allocated to South Africa, each sporting a clever water-injection system that helped raise the 6-cylinder engine’s peak outputs to 368 kW and 600 Nm. As a result, the claimed 0-100 kph time fell to 3.8 sec, while top speed climbed to 305 kph.

The M4 GTS – which was offered exclusively in 7-speed DCT form – was further distinguished by a raft of weight-saving measures, even ditching its interior door handles in favour of door pull loops. BMW also made extensive use of CFRP (for that adjustable rear wing, for example) and fashioned the exhaust muffler from titanium. The special model furthermore gained 3-way M coil-over suspension, OLED taillamps and carbon-fibre-backed M bucket seats, while the Clubsport Package (adding an orange roll bar, a race-specification 6-point harness and a fire extinguisher) was optional.

The BMW M4 DTM Champion Edition that followed in May 2017 borrowed the water-injection technology and suspension setup from the M4 GTS but was even more exclusive, with just 15 units set aside for SA. Offered only in Alpine White, the 2-seater DTM edition celebrated Marco Wittmann clinching the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM) driver’s title in the 2016 season finale.

In July 2017, BMW Group SA handed its broader 4 Series range a facelift (or LCI, in BMW-speak). As part of this mid-cycle update, the M4 Coupe – with its powertrain unchanged and again with the option of the Competition Package – scored adaptive full-LED headlights, newly designed full-LED taillamps, an updated version of the “Professional” Navigation system and other ConnectedDrive features.

The limited-run M4 CS made local landfall in October 2017, effectively filling the space between the M4 Competition Package and the track-biased GTS/DTM derivatives. In the CS-badged model, the Munich-based firm’s familiar 3.0-litre inline-6 produced 338 kW and 600 Nm of torque, allowing the coupe to reach 3 figures from a standstill in a claimed 3.9 sec. Drive was again delivered to the rear axle via a 7-speed DCT, while various model-specific suspension tweaks were implemented. With the M Driver’s Package included as standard, the CS was electronically limited to 280 kph.

The M4 CS further benefited from a CFRP construction for its bonnet, while the model-specific light-alloy wheels were wrapped in semi-slick Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres (265/35 R19 at the front and 285/30 R20 at the rear). The boot lid gained a carbon-fibre Gurney spoiler lip, while the rear diffuser was pilfered from the GTS. Inside, this special model featured lightweight M sports seats trimmed in a combination of leather and Alcantara.

Interestingly, BMW said all M4 models (bar the CS and since-discontinued GTS and DTM) built from November 2017 onwards switched from a CFRP driveshaft to a version made of steel. This measure, according to the Munich-based company, created the “necessary technical basis for meeting future statutory emissions requirements”. From what we understand, the CFRP driveshaft’s larger diameter would have hindered the fitment of new emissions control devices.

The final update came around the 2nd quarter of 2020, when 10 units of the M4 Edition M Heritage arrived. This limited-production derivative was available in light blue, dark blue and red – yes, the colours of the M logo – hues that were repeated on a decorative strip that ran the length of the CFRP roof.

The F82 M4 finally bowed out of Mzansi when the G82 M4 debuted in March 2021, complete with its controversial oversized double-kidney grille and without the option of a manual gearbox (in SA, anyway).

What are the advantages of an F82 BMW M4?

Tractability of engine: While some may have lamented the axing of the E92 M3’s free-breathing V8 (S65) engine, there’s no contesting the fact the inline-6 (S55) was a far more flexible unit. With more twisting force on offer earlier in the rev range – from a rock-bottom 1 850 rpm all the way through to 5 500 rpm, in the case of the standard M4 – this tractable turbopetrol motor boasted startling levels of in-gear acceleration (though some say the early models were a little peaky in their torque delivery).

Endowed with a pin-sharp throttle, the F82-gen BMW M4’s performance was more accessible than that of its predecessor, making this version of the high-performance coupe – dare we say it – a smidge easier to drive rapidly than the E92 M3. Of course, whether that’s an advantage depends on your perspective. But there’s no doubting the fact the S55 was lighter on fuel (though best of luck matching BMW’s claim of 8.3 L/100 km for the standard DCT model).

Stellar handling: Weighing in at about 80 kg less than its predecessor, the F82 BMW M4 was about far more than mere straight-line speed. Indeed, this agile coupe’s smartly engineered chassis (with a little help from that clever Active M differential) served up the sort of mid-corner balance and grip that translated into astonishing cross-country pace in the right hands, while also benefitting from mighty brakes. As an aside, grip levels could be adjusted via settings in the M Dynamic Mode.

Of course, a largely unwelcome upshot of this segment-leading handling prowess was a particularly jarring ride quality over broken or uneven road surfaces. In addition, it’s worth keeping in mind the S55’s engine note was both partially synthesised and not nearly as aurally dramatic as the old free-revving V8.

Local availability of special editions: Since South Africa was (and still is) a significant market for BMW’s M division, it’s little surprise we received allocations of almost every globally available special edition, missing out on only the M4 Convertible Edition 30 Jahre of 2018. As a result, the GTS (23 units), the DTM Champion Edition (15 units) and – to a lesser extent – the M4 CS (60 units) are all positioned to become collector’s items.

What are the downsides of an F82 BMW M4?

Crank hub issue: Though the failure rate is likely nowhere near as high as some on the internet would have you believe, it’s still worth noting the S55 engine used in the F82 BMW M4 (and other models) had its crank gear locked to the crankshaft with little more than a small friction washer held in place by torque from the main crank bolt. Since there’s no keyway to prevent movement, the hub can sometimes slip, throwing out engine timing and triggering a drivetrain malfunction light – or worse.

Spun crank hubs are thought to be more common in DCT-equipped examples than in manual models, while this issue is, unsurprisingly, also more likely to afflict tuned M4s (which, of course, would generate higher levels of torque). Though oil leaks from various locations may also present, the S55 is largely regarded as one of the more reliable M engines… when maintained meticulously, of course.

Potential PCV valve failure: That said, the S55 engine did retain the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve system – which was integrated into the valve cover – used by the N55 motor, which could fail prematurely in a few ways. Stuck open, stuck closed or suffering from a clogged filter, pressure would build up in the crankcase, potentially leading to – you guessed it – oil leaks.

Pricey to buy and run: As you might expect from a German-built high-performance coupe, purchasing a clean used M4 requires a substantial initial outlay, while running costs – from fuel to insurance and tyres – are anything but negligible. So, make sure to take that into account when determining your budget.

Depending on your preferred automotive service provider (not to mention the supplier of parts), general maintenance costs have the potential to make a sizeable dent in your monthly income. Since the final units of the F82 M4 arrived in SA in early 2021, there is the option of picking up a late example that still enjoys the balance of its standard Motorplan – but the clock is certainly ticking on that front.

How much is a used F82 BMW M4 in South Africa?

From launch, the F82 BMW M4 purchase price included a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan, with the contract distance optionally extendable up to 200 000 km. As always, scour the service history of any used M4 you’re eyeing up; fastidious maintenance is key when it comes to 2nd-hand performance cars.

Also, keep in mind that BMW Group SA offered a wide range of options for the M4, so consider that when comparing any 2 examples. For instance, at launch, the M4 could be optionally specified with items such as carbon-ceramic brakes, adaptive M running gear, larger alloy wheels (up to 19 inches), adaptive LED headlights, a head-up display, seat heating and an uprated surround-sound audio system.

At the time of writing, just 2 of the 58 examples of the F82 BMW M4 listed on Cars.co.za were manual derivatives, while there were only 4 convertibles available. Just a single listing had clocked up more than 150 000 km (a 2016 convertible that had completed 164 000 km), while the lowest-mileage unit we unearthed was a 2020 M4 Edition M Heritage with 14 000 km on its odometer.

As many as 23 units (or around 40% of all F82 BMW M4 listings) were specified with the Competition Package. Overall, the most common model year was 2016, followed by 2017 and 2018. Likely due to a certain global pandemic, 2020 was the least prevalent model year.

• Below R700 000: The initial 5 model years were all represented in this sub-R700k space. You’ll want to keep your wits about you here, particularly if any deal looks too good to be true. For the record, the least expensive F82 M4 we discovered was a 2016 convertible priced at R499 000, with 149 000 km on the clock.

• From R700 000 to R1 000 000: Around half of all F82 stock was positioned between these pricing bookends, with model years running from 2015 to 2019. Towards the top end of this bracket, we found various low-mileage M4s equipped with the Competition Package. The highest odometer reading we noted here was 128 000 km.

• R1 000 000 and up: If your budget creeps into 7 figures (keeping in mind the G82 BMW M4 kicks off on the far side of R2.1-million these days), you should be able to pick up a clean Competition-equipped F82 M4 quite comfortably. We also found a few M4 CS units here, along with the only GTS on offer. The latter had 39 000 km on its odometer and was listed at R1 950 000 (for the record, the base price new in 2016 was R2 203 900).

Which F82 BMW M4 derivative should I buy?

So, which F82 BMW M4 should you buy? Well, while we often recommend that shoppers narrow their respective searches to facelifted models (which tend to benefit from substantial under-the-skin upgrades as well as additional standard equipment), but in the case of the F82 M4, its mid-cycle refresh (LCI) brought only relatively minor updates. So, while an LCI example would still be first prize, there’s nothing wrong with looking at earlier models, too, particularly if you’re keen on maximising value.

Since the special-edition derivatives are few and far between (for example, not a single DTM Champion Edition was listed at the time of writing), most buyers would be considering a “standard” M4. If your bank balance allows, we’d err towards a model equipped with the Competition Package.

Before we forget, here’s the requisite caveat about buying a 2nd-hand performance vehicle: bear in mind that models like the M4 tend to be driven extremely hard, which makes evidence of regular maintenance all the more important. We’d also suggest avoiding modified examples – purchase a stock standard one.

Is the F82-gen BMW M4 a good used buy?

What else might be on a would-be M4 buyer’s shopping list? Well, the W205-series Mercedes-AMG C63 Coupe was the BMW’s most obvious rival, with its twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 generating 350 kW in standard guise and 375 kW in “S” form. There was also the V6-powered (though all-wheel-drive) Audi RS5 Coupe that touched down in late 2017.

The rear-driven Lexus RC F was a bit of a latecomer to the local party but remained a left-field alternative until its quiet discontinuation at the end of 2023, despite sporting a lovely 351 kW naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V8. Just keep in mind this Japanese contender wasn’t nearly as sharp a driving tool as the M4.

Buyers could also have considered the Jaguar F-Type, which was available with 4-, 6- or 8-cylinder engines, while the 991.2 Porsche 911 – perhaps in “S” or even “GTS” form – was another popular option in this space, as was the Porsche 718 Cayman GTS. It would be remiss of us not to mention the F87-generation BMW M2 Competition here as well, considering it shared so much with its bigger brother.

Still, the F82-gen BMW M4 certainly carved out a healthy niche for itself around the globe. Despite differing markedly from its arguably more characterful E92-gen predecessor in several key areas – and even pivoting to an entirely new nameplate – this coupe still holds huge appeal among enthusiasts today.

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