BMW's ferocious new M4 coupe (pictures)

The high-performance version of BMW's new 4-series coupe goes by name M4.

BMW's line of M cars were originally created to reward its race drivers with special versions of its street-legal cars.

The M4 feature upgrades to engine, suspension, transmission, steering and stability-control systems.

The engine is a 3-liter inline six-cylinder with two turbochargers and direct injection, making 425 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque.

BMW uses a new electric power steering system, allowing different driving programs.

LED headlights are an option for the new M4.

BMW recently revamped its naming strategy, designating all its coupes with even model numbers.

18-inch wheels come standard, and ceramic brake rotors are optional.

These fender vents serve to flow air out of the wheel well.

A carbon-fiber roof lessens weight at the top.

The M Dynamic Mode stability program lets the rear end of the M4 drift out in corners, but holds the car back from a full spin-out.

Sport seats include adjustable bolsters.

BMW includes a number of features standard in the M4, such as navigation. However, a rear-view camera is optional.

BMW retains its simple gauge design and employs a monochrome LCD in the center for trip and driver information.

The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission offers impressive performance, allowing lightning-fast gear changes at the touch of a paddle.

The iDrive controller incorporates a touchpad, which lets drivers trace letters and swipe across a map.

The wide LCD sits up on the dashboard, showing a simple main menu screen.

Performance gauges show M4 drivers live horsepower and torque output.

The M4 includes two programmable M buttons for the car's many drive settings.

Drivers can set the stability program, steering, throttle, transmission and the suspension, when the adaptive suspension option is present.

BMW's navigation system shows richly detailed maps and includes very broad live traffic coverage.

HD radio comes standard.

BMW's music library screen has always been too complicated for quick operation on the road.

Digital audio sources include the car's onboard hard drive, Bluetooth streaming and a USB port for drives and iOS devices.

BMW Connected Drive integrates smartphones, adding a number of useful apps to the car's electronics.