Ultra-desirable, lightweight performance models have always been part of the BMW philosophy.
These limited-edition M-badged cars always deliver the ultimate in sports-oriented design, power with efficiency and precise driving dynamics. Today, that family lineage welcomes its latest member – the all-new BMW M4 GTS.
Quite simply, it is the fastest production road car the brand has ever offered to customers. Developed and tested extensively at the Nürburgring Nordschleife, it has recorded a lap time of 7mins 28 secs – almost 30 seconds quicker than a standard M4.
Unique exterior design elements demonstrate the performance credentials of the car, and include the world premiere of BMW’s Organic Light with LED (OLED) lighting technology on a series-production model. Inside, the rear bench has been completely removed to save weight, leaving two carbon-fibre sports seats.
Under the bonnet is an enhanced version of the 3.0-litre six-cylinder twin-turbo petrol engine, tuned to deliver 500hp. The result is a car which accelerates from zero to 62mph in only 3.8 seconds, and has a top speed limited to 190mph.
With its intelligent lightweight design, the new BMW M4 GTS has a kerb weight of only 1,510kg. It has been engineered to provide a truly authentic motorsport-derived driving experience, agile and potent in every way. With precision handling and unprecedented levels of feedback, it is focused on track use, but meets all global regulations for use on public roads.
With its muscular contours, prominent three-dimensional styling and dramatic splitter – complete with Acid Orange and exposed carbon fibre detailing – there is no mistaking the BMW M4 GTS. It paints a picture of uncompromising sports performance and highlights the car’s superior performance.
The splitter divides the air, channelling part of it deliberately under the car to optimise aerodynamics. It can be set in two different positions, for road and track. Other characteristic design elements, such as the familiar twin circular Adaptive LED headlights, and the eye-catching front grille with M double slat bars in black, have been reworked to create real presence on the road.
Hallmarks such as the striking M division exterior mirrors with twin-stalks and the powerdome bonnet are there. Made from CFRP, it weighs 25 per cent less than an aluminium equivalent and features a large air vent for cooling and reduction in front-end lift.
The flanks feature many M car signatures. The long bonnet, long wheelbase, set-back greenhouse and short overhangs are emphasised by contemporary design elements such as the muscular wheel arches and dramatic surfacing. Also present are the M gills, finished in high-gloss black like the kidney grille surround, which house breathers to optimise airflow. Viewed in profile, the dark-coloured, clear-coated CFRP roof and sweeping roofline gives the BMW M4 GTS an aggressive and low-to-the-road look.
Unmissable at the rear is the striking spoiler. It’s attached to the boot lid by two intricate aluminium struts, for high stiffness and low weight. It can be adjusted through three positions, one for road driving and two others that can be selected according to individual preference on the track.
The car features a titanium quad-pipe exhaust system. Each pipe has a diameter of 80mm and a laser-engraved M emblem. Key to the appeal of any performance car is its exhaust note, and the BMW M4 GTS is no different. An emotionally charged and unmistakable BMW M sound is audible over the entire engine speed range.
The exhaust pipes are framed by a rear apron and flank the exposed carbon-fibre diffuser. It works with the car’s other aerodynamic features to optimise airflow, improving downforce and road-holding.
The wheels are another visible treat which set the M4 GTS apart. The forged M light-alloy wheels (19-inch at the front, 20-inch at the rear), feature a distinctive star-spoke design in Acid Orange and polished surfacing. They’re fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres (265/35 R19 at the front, 285/30 R20 at the rear). Developed specifically for the BMW M4 GTS and integrated into the design of the suspension right from the drawing board, they play a role in the car’s outstanding mechanical traction and feedback through corners.
The flawless ergonomics and clear driver focus of the BMW M4 GTS interior are evidence of the car’s design brief to deliver top-class driver enjoyment. The interior architecture takes its cues from motorsport and includes two carbon-fibre bucket seats as standard, providing excellent lateral support and comfort over long distances. They also weigh 50 per cent less than those in the standard M4.
Seat covers are finished in Merino leather with contrast stitching, anthracite-coloured Alcantara and M stripes on the backrests. The M sports steering wheel, also covered in anthracite-coloured Alcantara, has a perforated stripe in contrasting Acid Orange at the top to mark the central position.
The new centre console of the BMW M4 GTS is asymmetric in design and lightweight in construction. Like the handbrake lever gaiter, it’s covered in anthracite-coloured Alcantara with edging in dark grey contrast stitching. The interior door panels and rear side panels include lightweight design elements produced specially for the BMW M4 GTS. Door handles have been replaced by pull loops to save weight.
The rear seats have been replaced by an innovative glass-fibre-reinforced plastic (GFRP) shelf, combined with a rear panel made from a carbon-fibre sandwich construction both covered in anthracite-coloured Alcantara. Lowering the car’s weight and centre of gravity, they ensure exceptional rigidity.
The car’s one-year production run will see just 700 examples built worldwide, with UK sales of 30 units.
On sale in March, 2016 and priced at £120,770 OTR
