Is the BMW M4 a Competition Automatic? Full Breakdown
When performance meets precision, the BMW M4 stands out—but does it come with an automatic option? With driver-focused engineering at its core, understanding the transmission choice is key to unlocking the M4’s potential.
Is the BMW M4 Available with Automatic Transmission?
The BMW M4, renowned for its rear-wheel-drive layout and potent inline-six engine, is primarily offered with a manual transmission across most trims. However, select markets and configurations provide an automatic option, typically paired with advanced drivetrain controls that preserve the sporty feel while enhancing accessibility. The automatic variant often uses a 8-speed ZF transmission designed for responsive shifts without sacrificing the M4’s signature driving dynamics.
Performance and Transmission Synergy
While manual remains the preferred choice among purists, the optional automatic transmission offers a compelling alternative for drivers prioritizing ease of use. It maintains the M4’s agile handling and acceleration, delivering smooth gear transitions that complement its high-revving engine. This hybrid setup appeals to both track enthusiasts and daily drivers seeking performance without constant gear changes.
Market-Specific Availability and Configuration Choices
Availability of the BMW M4 automatic varies by region due to local regulations and market demand. In select European and Asian markets, automatic models are available through dealer customization, though they remain rare in North America. Always verify with a local BMW dealer to confirm specifications and transmission options for your intended M4 variant.
The BMW M4 is predominantly a manual-powered machine, but strategic availability of automatic transmission on certain models meets diverse driving preferences. Whether manual or automatic, the M4 delivers uncompromised performance—so choose the drivetrain that aligns with your style and track goals. For the purest M4 experience, opt for manual; for convenience without compromise, explore available automatic configurations.
Read our 2026 BMW M4 review for information on ratings, pricing, specs, and features, and see how this coupe performed in our testing. While standard versions have a six-speed manual transmission, the BMW M4 Competition models have an eight. 2026 BMW M4 Coupe, Competition Coupe, and Competition xDrive Coupe A coupe that embodies the best of BMW M: unstoppable power, incredible handling, and sporty styling.
2024 BMW M4 vs M4 Competition What's the Difference Between the 2024 BMW M4 and M4 Competition? M4 Competition models have an upgraded power output of 503 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, compared to 473 hp and 406 lb. BMW M4 Competition Coupé with M xDrive. Maximum M High Performance with all-wheel drive High Performance M TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder engine 8-speed M Steptronic: Sport automatic transmission with Drivelogic paddle shifters M xDrive all-wheel drive with active M differential Maximum agility, precision and dynamics for the road and racetrack.
The BMW M4 Coupe's manual transmission will appeal to purists, but the Competition variants' 8. Detailed specs and features for the 2026 BMW M4 Competition including dimensions, horsepower, engine, capacity, fuel economy, transmission, engine type, cylinders, drivetrain and more. The M4 Competition features a similar engine that produces 503 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque, and it comes with an eight.
We'll miss the M4 CSL, a truly special BMW that has reached the end of its limited production. In its absence, stick to the M4 Competition, which comes with extra power and a competent automatic. The BMW M4 is a high-performance version of the BMW 4 Series automobile developed by BMW 's motorsport division, BMW M GmbH, that has been built since 2014.
As part of the renumbering that splits the coupé and convertible variants of the 3 Series into the 4 Series, the M4 replaced those variants of the BMW M3.