2021’s equally most anticipated and arguably revered BMW coupe is the new kid on the block and comes jam packed full of features you’d almost think it’s a spacecraft.
The new BMW M4 Competition is a track beast, boasting a high-performance 3.0L in-line 6 cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, delivering 375kw/650Nm, and achieves 0-100km/h in just 3.9 seconds.
This RWD performance car’s drivetrain and chassis technology have been derived from motorsport and guarantees smiles from ear-to-ear.
One of many new technological upgrades to the new M3 & M4 line-ups includes the brand-spanking-new M Drive Professional System, which comes standard, and with some sweet inclusions too.
The M4 Competition comes with M modes, also known as your Driving Modes (Road, Sport, Track), as well as M1 and M2 modes which serve as quick access steering wheel controls for your pre-set detailed M mode driving preferences.
Here are five cool features you should try in the new BMW M4 Competition (mostly if you have access to a track or private roads).
- M Track Mode
As the name suggests, this is for use on the track.
Although there isn’t a dedicated ‘Track’ button (or even a Sport or Comfort (Road) button) like you may see in other performance cars, to activate Track mode simply hold down the M MODE button until Track mode is activated (a track mode animation will appear on the infotainment screen, confirming your chosen mode, alongside safety disclaimers).
To be honest, I actually quite like that Track mode isn’t a dedicated button and it makes sense for it to be reserved in such a way given that it should not be used on public roads.
2. M Laptimer
Want to be the very best. Like no one ever was?
Well now you can, thanks to the M Laptimer which helps you to compare previous laps and see areas of improvement by recording your results.
To get the most out of the M Laptimer feature, it’s best used in conjunction with The BMW M Laptimer app.
3. 10-Stage M Traction Control
Real talk, does anybody really need 10-Stages of customisable traction control? I’d love to know.
Albeit, I still love the idea as much as it is fascinating and interesting to me.
Within the M Drive settings you can customise your level of traction control, of course, this isn’t without caveats and safety warnings built-in.
4. M Drift Analyser
I’ll admit that the feature above is pretty wild, but in my opinion the M Drift Analyser takes the cake!
Ever dreamt of being the ultimate drift King/Queen?! Well look no further, BMW have gamified drifting so you can 1) drift to your hearts content (within reason) 2) improve. yo’. ‘self. 3) become drift King/Queen.
I realise this is an insane feature, but if your sideways inclined and have access to either a skidpan/track then why wouldn’t you have some fun with this?!
It compares the time, meters travelled and your angle, giving you a rating out of 5 while also keeping note of your best drive for comparison.
You also have the choice to do a single drift or a drift session. Plus it is also compatible with The BMW M Laptimer app so you can also save your data there too.
To be honest, I’m jealous of anyone that can give this feature a go.
5. Steering Wheel M Modes (M1 & M2)
It’s no lie that when it comes to the new BMW M4 Competition, they’ve really jammed in as much tech as possible.
Probably the coolest and most useful feature of all is the two customisable M modes that you can activate by hitting the red M1 or M2 buttons attached to your M4 steering wheel.
Why should you care about this?
M Modes not only take your traditional Driving Modes to the next level, but also allow you to have not one but two personalised driving mode preferences.
Those that know me, know that I ADORE any opportunity for personalisation and the M1 & M2 button are a great touch.
The customisation list may seem overwhelming but to be honest I couldn’t imagine you would change it too much after you’ve made your setting choices.
Personally, I set up M1 as more of a comfort mode, and M2 for a sportier, aggressive drive.
The M1 & M2 modes are the most tailored (and aggressive) driving modes, incorporating all the chassis and engine options you expect plus exhaust sound control and the ability to automatically switch off Start/Stop which is a game changer!
The new 2021 BMW M4 Competition Coupe manages to be both overwhelming and exciting, with plenty of options for you to really make this performance coupe your own.
The new M Drive Professional delivers this experience meanwhile elevating the drivers’ connection with the car, which provides plenty of enjoyment when you’re behind the wheel.
What do you think? Which M Drive feature is your favourite? Let me know in the comments below.
Words and photography by Andrea Michelle Indy
ANDREA IN ARCADIA 
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