The BMW M4 has long been celebrated for its thrilling performance, but the introduction of the xDrive all-wheel-drive system has elevated it to a new echelon of speed. Suddenly, this iconic coupe isn’t just fast; it’s supercar fast. The 2022 BMW M4 Competition xDrive obliterates the 0-60 mph sprint in a mere 2.8 seconds, a figure that was once the exclusive domain of exotic, high-dollar machines. This newfound acceleration is a testament to the engineering prowess of BMW and the undeniable advantages of all-wheel drive in harnessing immense power.
The Need for Speed: M4 xDrive’s Launch Prowess
To truly grasp the significance of the Bmw M4 0-60 time, it’s essential to understand the context. While rear-wheel-drive M cars are renowned for their engaging driving dynamics, they can sometimes struggle to deploy their power effectively, especially during aggressive launches. The sheer force of the M4 Competition’s 503 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, generated by its twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six engine, can overwhelm the rear tires. This is where xDrive steps in, providing relentless grip and transforming the M4’s acceleration.
In head-to-head comparisons, the difference is stark. Testing revealed that a rear-wheel-drive BMW M3 Competition sedan, the M4’s close mechanical sibling, achieves 60 mph in a still respectable 3.5 seconds. While quick, it’s a noticeable gap compared to the xDrive M4’s blistering 2.8-second time. This advantage is evident from the moment you engage launch control. By 30 mph, the M4 xDrive already holds a half-second lead over its rear-drive counterpart, showcasing the superior traction and launch capabilities of the all-wheel-drive system. Interestingly, when measuring rolling starts (5-60 mph), the gap narrows, with the xDrive M4 clocking 4.4 seconds versus the RWD M3’s 4.5 seconds, highlighting the launch-specific benefit of AWD. Even the base rear-drive BMW M4 with a manual transmission, focused on driver engagement, trails behind at 3.8 seconds to 60 mph.
Quarter-Mile Domination and Track Prowess
The impressive BMW M4 0-60 sprint is just the beginning of the performance story. The xDrive-equipped M4 continues its rapid acceleration through the quarter-mile, completing it in a mere 11.0 seconds at a trap speed of 125 mph. While the trap speed is only marginally higher than the rear-drive M3 Competition, the M4 xDrive’s 0.6-second advantage in quarter-mile time is significant in the world of performance metrics.
Beyond straight-line speed, the M4 Competition xDrive maintains the handling prowess expected of an M car. Equipped with the same high-performance components as its rear-drive siblings, including optional carbon-ceramic brakes and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, the xDrive M4 delivers exceptional grip and braking. It achieves 1.02 g on the skidpad and stops from 70 mph in just 150 feet, figures virtually identical to the rear-drive M3 Competition. This demonstrates that the addition of xDrive doesn’t compromise the M4’s agility and cornering capabilities.
Daily Driving and Fuel Efficiency
Despite its supercar-level acceleration, the BMW M4 Competition xDrive remains surprisingly civilized for daily driving. While the ride can be firm, even in Comfort mode thanks to the adaptive dampers, it’s a trade-off for the car’s exceptional handling. Furthermore, the fuel economy is unexpectedly reasonable. Real-world testing revealed an average of 22 mpg, and an impressive 29 mpg on a 75-mph highway route, exceeding the EPA highway estimate by a significant 7 mpg. This suggests that the xDrive system doesn’t impose a major penalty on fuel efficiency, making the M4 xDrive a performance car that can be enjoyed without excessive fuel consumption.
xDrive System and Driving Dynamics
The BMW M4 Competition xDrive system is designed to enhance performance without sacrificing the engaging character of a rear-wheel-drive M car. The system maintains a rear-drive bias in most situations, preserving the traditional M car feel. For drivers seeking a more rear-biased experience, the 4WD Sport mode shifts more torque to the rear axle. For those wanting to fully unleash the rear-wheel-drive nature of the M4, deactivating stability control and selecting 2WD mode transforms it into a tire-smoking machine.
While the xDrive system adds a slight weight increase to the front of the car, any change in steering feel is negligible. The steering remains precise and responsive, albeit with a somewhat muted feedback, which is characteristic of modern BMW M cars. Ultimately, xDrive enhances the M4’s overall stability and traction, particularly in challenging conditions, without fundamentally altering its driving character.
Price and Performance Value
The 2022 BMW M4 Competition xDrive starts at a base price of $79,995, which can quickly escalate with options. The test vehicle, loaded with features like carbon-ceramic brakes and carbon bucket seats, reached an as-tested price of $101,995. Despite the price, the M4 Competition xDrive represents a compelling performance value. It joins the ranks of sub-$100,000 vehicles capable of achieving sub-3-second 0-60 mph times, placing it in the company of supercars at a significantly lower price point. While purists may still prefer the engagement of the standard rear-drive M4 with a manual transmission, there’s no denying that xDrive unlocks the full potential of the Competition model’s power, delivering truly breathtaking acceleration and cementing the BMW M4 0-60 time as a benchmark in its class.
