BMW has unveiled its convertible version of its potent M4 and it'll land in SA before the end of 2021.

Converting a sports coupe into a convertible version is no easy feat. See, the roof forms an integral part of a vehicle's rigidity and structure, and simply chopping it off causes many issues with dynamics. Then there's the subjective design question. Some vehicles look great in the convertible form, others not so much.

In the case of the 2022 BMW M4 Competition Convertible xDrive, we feel BMW has ticked the boxes for image. Some would argue the convertible is a prettier and more interesting design than that of the BMW M4 coupe. Interestingly, BMW's xDrive system makes its debut on the M4 Convertible for the first time.

The roof mechanism is a retracting fabric setup that can open and close within 18 seconds at speeds of up to 50 kph and impressively, the entire mechanism is 40% lighter than the folding hardtop from the previous-generation BMW M4 Convertible.

As far as powertrain options go, the BMW M4 Competition Convertible features the same 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged 6-cylinder engine as its coupe and M3 sedan siblings. The S58 motor produces 375 kW and 650 Nm, and power reaches all 4 wheels via an 8-speed gearbox. When it comes to performance, BMW says its M4 Competition Convertible xDrive will sprint to 100 kph in just 3.7 seconds and dash to 200 kph in 13.1 seconds. Opt for theM Driver's Package and your 250 kph electronic limiter will be moved to 280 kph.

BMW has retained its trick driving modes and there are selectable 4WD, 4WD Sport, and 2WD settings. Drifts in aBMW M4 Competition Convertible with the top down? Sign us up.

The vehicle rides on 19-inch forged alloy wheels at the front, with 20-inch units at the rear. Ceramic brakes are available as an option. Inside, the cabin is identical to that of the BMW M3 and M4 hardtop derivatives.

When is theBMW M4 Competition Convertible xDrive coming to SA?

The new BMW M4 Competition Convertible with M xDrive will be available in South Africa from the fourth quarter of 2021.

Further Reading

BMW M4 Competition (2021) Review

BMW M3 and M4 xDrive Revealed

BMW M3 and M4 Competition (2021) Launch Review

BMW M2 CS Review – Is This The Best Driver's BMW M Car?