Examples of the controversial new BMW M4 are beginning to hit our roads, but with prices starting from around $150,000, perhaps AC Schnitzer’s fettled 4-series might be something to consider. Not only has the famous BMW tuner tweaked the design with a number of fresh interior and exterior components, output has also seen a healthy bump.
Examples of the controversial new BMW M4 are beginning to hit our roads, but with prices starting from around $150,000, perhaps AC Schnitzer’s fettled 4-series might be something to consider. Not only has the famous BMW tuner tweaked the design with a number of fresh interior and exterior components, output has also seen a healthy bump.
Though it doesn’t reduce the size of that ample new grille, the tuner has made a number of changes to the exterior design in order to add aggression to the visuals. A larger front splitter is complemented by new side skirts and a small roof spoiler, with a large carbonfibre item set to come later this year – all of these components are said to increase downforce for improved performance.
A fresh set of 19 or 20-inch wheels are available in either diamond cut, grey or black finishes, these are squeezed into the arches by a 30mm drop in ride height achieved through the use of lowering springs. Tyre sizes for the larger 20-inch set come in at 235-section front and 265-section rear.
Both the four-cylinder 430i and range-topping M440i xDrive have received bumps in power output from AC Schnitzer too, with the black pump M440d also set to receive tweaks in due course. The 430i sees a 31kW increase to 221kW, with the M440i gaining 34kW and 100Nm of torque for an output of 309kW and 600Nm. No performance figures have been provided, but expect to see an improvement on the factory 4.5sec 0-100km/h time for the latter car.
Also available from the AC Schnitzer catalogue is a brand new exhaust system for the M440i, increasing sound and enhancing looks – either chrome or black quad exhaust tips can be fitted as part of the package. Inside, buyers can opt for aluminium paddles, upgraded pedals, a new aluminium footrest and more.
No pricing for the components has been announced, but AC Schnitzer will provide you with a five-year warranty with its upgrades to give you some peace of mind.
Sam Jenkins