2022 BMW M3 and M4 Competition xDrive models added to range

The launch of the 2021 BMW M3 and M4 and their rear-wheel-drive Competition variants in September 2020 was a polarising one, thanks to the gaping grill. Yet, the controversial grill design has not slowed down the BMW M Range, which now gets new additions in the form of 2022 BMW M3 and M4 Competition xDrive.

Looking past the gaping front end, the BMW Competition models share the same twin-turbo 3.0-litre inline-six engine with the regular M3 and M4, but there are a bunch of changes under the skin. The M3 and M4 Competition xDrive models get all-wheel-drive powertrains, instead of the rear-wheel-drive in the regular variants.

They also lose the stick shift, with the engine coming exclusively mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The power and torque outputs remain the same as the RWD Competition models at 503 hp and 650 Nm. With the new mechanicals, the M3 and M4 Competition xDrive models hit 100 kph from standstill in just over 3.6 seconds. The top speed is still capped at 250 kph, which can be bumped up to 290 kph if the optional M Performance Package is added.

To counter the additional bulk added by the xDrive hardware, the new BMW M3 and M4 Competition gets improvements in other areas. There is an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch that channels torque between the front and rear axles. There is an active differential at the rear to help things even further. The xDrive AWD is more rear-biased in the M3 and M4 Competition xDrive. There are modes to control this power distribution. The default 4WD setting sends more power to the rear wheels and channels some to the front wheels as and when it is needed. A 4WD Sport mode adds even more rear bias. Then there is a pure 2WD mode for mad BMW M action, sending all its firepower to the rear wheels.

In terms of pricing, the 2022 BMW M3 and M4 Competition xDrive models commands a slight premium over the M3 and M4 Competition RWD models. The exact price in our region is yet to be confirmed, although local dealer prices have always been rather hefty around here.