Cars from BMW's M tuning division have always been rear-wheel-driven. Now, the latest M4 Convertible breaks tradition with all-wheel drive. Perhaps it's BMW's attempt at luring customers away from super SUVs?

The M4 Competition Convertible sits on an M xDrive all-wheel-drive system and Active M Differential, which "enhance traction, directional stability and dynamism." While most of the power goes to the rear wheels, there are three modes for the driver to choose from: 4WD, 4WD Sport, and 2WD. 

BMW said the 2WD rear-wheel drive setup comes alive with the driving stability control system deactivated.

Aside from the trick AWD, the M4 Competition Convertible is also underpinned by an equally complex suspension. It has a double-joint spring strut front axle with bespoke axle geometry and steering ratio, and five-link rear axle, BMW said. 

Meanwhile, Adaptive M suspension electronically controls the dampers, and M Servotronic steering with variable ratio is standard. For braking, M Compound brakes are there as standard, while M Carbon ceramic brakes is an option.

An inline six-cylinder engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology powers the M4, which has a "high-revving character."  Featuring two turbochargers, the engine makes 510hp and 650Nm of pulling power, and helps the car romp from zero to 100kph in 3.7 seconds. 

Power is channeled via an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission, and creates an "emotionally rich soundtrack" through the exhaust with controlled flaps. 

The M4 "Comp" Convertible's described noise can be heard better with the soft top folded down. The panel bow soft top is lighter than its predecessor’s roof, and can be opened or closed in 18 seconds, even when moving thanks to its electric drive mechanism.

Other exterior highlights are the signature M exterior features. These include the large, vertical BMW kidney grille, large cooling air intakes for engine and brakes, contoured wheel arches, and distinctive M Side Gills.

Front and rear aprons to form a black band encircling the body. M Carbon exterior package and lightweight BMW M Performance Parts available as options.

Inside, M Sport seats and Extended Merino leather trim are standard fit, while meaner M Carbon bucket seats are available as an option.

The interior also features the M Mode button.  M Mode allows for enables customized configuration of both the driver assistance systems, displays in the instrument cluster and optional Head-Up Display.  

Meanwhile, the optional M Drift Analyser can egg the driver to slide about in 2WD, and the optional M Laptimer can help one channel their inner racer. 

An extensive selection of driver assistance systems can also be optioned to "boost long-distance comfort and safety." These systems include the  Driving Assistant Professional (which features Steering and Lane Control Assistant, Active Navigation function and Emergency Lane Assistant), and Parking Assistant. 

As befitting a luxury convertible, the M4 has three-zone automatic climate control, ambient lighting, hi-fi speaker system, plus BMW Live Cockpit Professional featuring fully digital display grouping, cloud‑based navigation system BMW Maps, and BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant.

Production of the M4 Competition Convertible starts in July 2021, BMW said. 

Photos from BMW

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