Does the BMW M4 Have a V8 Engine? Expert Comparison & Specs

The BMW M4 stands as a symbol of high-performance driving, but does it truly deliver with a V8 engine, or does modern engineering take a different path?

The 2024 BMW M4 continues BMW’s tradition of powerful, high-revving engines—but it does not include a V8. Instead, the M4 is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six producing up to 523 horsepower. This unit, known for its precise handling and responsive torque, represents BMW’s shift toward efficient performance without sacrificing the driver’s thrill.

Unlike earlier generations that offered V8 options, the current M4 focuses on a lightweight, high-power inline-six paired with advanced hybrid-ready technology. This design delivers 0-60 mph in under 3.7 seconds while maintaining efficiency and low center of gravity—key traits for a sport sedan.

BMW’s decision to omit the V8 reflects a strategic move toward electrification and reduced emissions without compromising performance. The inline-six engine, coupled with drum brakes and optimized weight distribution, offers a balanced driving experience that aligns with modern expectations and regulatory demands.

While the BMW M4 does not boast a V8 engine, its twin-turbo inline-six delivers superior power-to-weight ratio and driving dynamics that define the M4’s legacy. For those seeking pure performance, the M4 remains a compelling choice—engineered for precision and passion in every drive.

The question "Does the BMW M4 have a V8?" has sparked a lot of curiosity among car enthusiasts and potential buyers alike. After all, the M4 is renowned for its exceptional performance, aggressive styling, and engineering prowess. When it first hit the scene, many fans anticipated a powerful V8 engine to match its sporty appearance.

However, the reality is a bit more nuanced, as BMW has. 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.

Overview The M4 is the two-door variant of the M3 sedan and offers a high level of comfort, luxury, and usability for daily driving as well as a decently roomy back seat if necessary. The BMW M4 excels in two areas: power and grip. A blazing 473-hp twin-turbo inline-six engine, a six-speed manual transmission, and rear-wheel drive are all standard on the M4; M4 Competition editions have 503 hp.

The engine delivers power smoothly and effortlessly, allowing for quick overtakes and an overall thrilling driving experience. While the BMW M4 does not have a V8 engine, it more than makes up for it with its impressive twin. In the #M3M4explained series, the developers of the BMW M3 and M4 have the floor.

In episode eight they explain the engine details of the new BMW M3 Competition and BMW M4 Competition. Read our 2026 BMW M4 review for information on ratings, pricing, specs, and features, and see how this coupe performed in our testing. Does the BMW M3 have a V8? 8.300 rpm.

With its high-reving capability, the V8 engine of the BMW M3 E90, E92 and E93 provides a motorsport feeling and outstanding performance. The BMW M4 is powered by the BMW S58 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six engine, producing between 473 and 543 horsepower depending on the variant [1]. The base M4 delivers 473 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, while the M4 Competition generates 503 hp (523 hp with xDrive) and 479 lb-ft of torque [2].

So which BMW models for 2023 still offer the acclaimed BMW V8 engine option? After researching the latest BMW lineup, it turns out only a handful of top M models allow buyers to choose the V8 over the standard inline 6-cylinder engine. The BMW M5, M8, X5 M, and X6 M give drivers the option for the pulse. The M4's engine incorporates high-precision direct injection, variable valve control, and an advanced cooling system to optimize performance and efficiency.

Transmission Options for Every Driving Style To harness the engine's power, BMW offers a choice of responsive transmissions. Purists will appreciate the crisp 6.