The epitome of racing feeling in everyday traffic starts a new round. 35 years after the debut of the first BMW M3, BMW M GmbH presents the latest generation of its high-performance automobiles in the premium mid-size segment. Time to introduce the two new vehicles. In the #M3M4explained series, the developers have the floor.
The inner values! Mickael's focus is on high-quality materials, perfect looks and design to the point. The BMW M developer is responsible for the interior of the new M automobiles. In the video, Mickael presents the interior - with details that are as functional as they are emotional.
BMW M ENTHUSIASTS ASK, BMW M EXPERTS ANSWER.
How long does it take to design an interior?
It depends on the content. For this specific M interior it takes a couple of months.
Which M Performance aftermarket interior parts are available?
There are several M Performance interior parts available, e.g. carbon/Alcantara or carbon/leather pro steering wheels, carbon shift paddles, matte finished carbon interior trim parts, Alcantara knee pads, M Performance door sills, M Performance LED door projector lenses and floor mats.
Will there be an Alcantara steering wheel?
That is available as a M Performance part for retrofit.
Is the carbon interior trim optional?
Yes, the option code is 4MC.
Is the passenger and engine bay separator covered in Alcantara? Or leather?
The standard dashboard is made of a polyurethane slush skin. As an option, you can have it covered with leather Nappa black on the top section and colored leather Merino on the lower side.
Can you mount a racing harness to the seats?
The serial version of the vehicle does not support the use of multi-point harnesses.
Is the red back of the shift paddlers made of carbon fiber too? Or is it metal/aluminium or normal plastic?
No, the red back of the shift paddles is rubberized plastic to improve tactile grip. The upshift paddle has little hexagonal knobs on it whereas the downshift paddle has little hexagonal dimples to distinguish both from a pure touch feeling.
Can the red paddle accent be changed to another color?
No, there is no alternative color available. Red is used as an accent color for M specific functional parts too.
Why are the paddles mounted on the steering wheel and not the steering column?
That is a BMW philosophy thing. We prefer the paddles to be mounted on the steering wheel so you can reach them all the time your hands are around the 3 o'clock / 9 o'clock spokes of the steering wheel.
Are there styling options for the gear shifter?
No, there are no alternative variants for the AT gear shift lever.
What are the differences between full and extended leather?
In contrast to the standard extended leather Merino, the full leather additionally includes the lower dashboard in upholstery color and upper dash, upper door and side panels covered with black leather.
What other colors do the carbon fiber seats come in?
The M Carbon seats will be available in Black, Silverstone/Black, Kyalami Orange/Black, Yas Marina Blue/Black, Fjord Blue/Black, Fiona Red/Black and Ivory White. The CFRP parts are always carbon fibre in its natural appeal woven in Köper 3K binding.
Are there Alcantara options available?
Besides some Alcantara detailing there is no pure Alcantara upholstery on offer. An Alcantara steering wheel is offered as M Performance accessory part though.
Is there any red color option for the carbon bucket seat?
Yes, there will be a Fiona Red/Black upholstery also for the M Carbon seats.
What is the weight difference between the standard seats and this carbon?
The pair of M Carbon seats is around 10kg lighter than the standard M Sport seats.
What is your favourite color combo on the new BMW M4?
For me, it is the Yas Marina Blue interior with its shiny yellow accent in a Frozen Deep Grey car - there, the interior really pops out.
What is your favorite M car?
That is the BMW M5 Touring (E61 M).
What did you study?
I majored in design transport at ISD school in Valenciennes.
What was your first car?
That was a Toyota Yaris … in order to save the points on my driving license.
What is your favorite non BMW car?
That is the legendary McLaren F1.
What car do you drive?
I am awaiting the arrival of the upcoming M3 Touring ;)