Following its concept debut at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, BMW has unveiled the production version of its high-performance M4 GTS.
Staying true to form, the M4 GTS is essentially a tracked-tuned version of the already potent M4 coupe. Like its concept counterpart, the M4 GTS features a new water injection system that’s the first of its kind for a series production car.
Simply explained, the water injection system injects a fine spray into the intake system, thereby reducing intake air temperatures by as much as 240 degrees. As a result, power from the M4′s turbocharged inline-six has jumped 16 percent to 493 horsepower while torque is up 10 percent to 442 lb-ft. Despite the jump in power, BMW says the M4 GTS returns about the same mileage as the standard M4.
According to BMW, the M4 GTS can accelerate from 0-60 in just 3.7 seconds. Top speed is governed at 189.5mph.
Although added power is certainly a factor in the M4 GTS’ all-out speed, BMW also boosted performance by removing weight. The M4 GTS uses lightweight carbon fiber in its roof, rear spoiler and even its instrument panel support. Although niceties like navigation and air conditioning remain, the M4′s back seat has been deleted in the name of weight savings. Compared to the regular M4, the GTS checks in about 256 pounds less.
In order to back up its straight-line performance, the M4 GTS is fitted with a manually-adjustable sports suspension and carbon disc brakes. A seven-speed double-clutch transmission will be the only gearbox on offer.
With all of those go-fast bits working in unison, BMW says the M4 GTS cab get around the Nurburgring in 7 minutes 28 seconds.
BMW will produce just 700 units of the M4 GTS, with 300 of those destined for the U.S. market. Buyers will be able to select from four exterior colors — Sapphire Black metallic, Mineral Grey metallic, Alpine White and Frozen Dark Grey Metallic — all of which are accented with Acid Orange. Pricing has not been released, but expect a hefty markup over the $65,000 M4.
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