When the new BMW M4 Convertible was spotted testing at the Nurburgring earlier this month, we suggested that an official reveal could be just weeks away. Well, that's turned out to be true as BMW has just taken the covers off its newest addition to the M family. This is the 2022 BMW M4 Competition Convertible and it's a significant departure from its predecessor. Not only is it equipped with the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system for the first time but it uses a new soft-top that is significantly lighter than the retractable hardtop fitted to the outgoing model. However, don't expect to find a manual transmission here as you'll walk away disappointed.

While the new M3 and M4 have been launched with rear-wheel drive and a six-speed manual gearbox, the M4 Competition Convertible uses the more powerful version of the S58 3.0-liter inline-six M TwinPower Turbo engine which produces 503 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. That's 59 hp and 73 lb-ft more than previous M4 Competitions. The increase in torque necessitates the fitment of the eight-speed M Steptronic automatic gearbox.

Despite its curb weight of 4,306 pounds, the new M4 Competition Convertible is claimed to reach 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds and continue on to a top speed of 174 mph if the M Performance Package is equipped. By comparison, the S variant of the Mercedes-AMG C63 Cabriolet is lighter and just as powerful but takes 3.9 seconds for the benchmark sprint.

Being a convertible, we can't not talk about the design. For some, the large grille's shock factor has worn off somewhat but for others, it remains hard to stomach. However, it does give the new M4 Convertible a very aggressive stance.

The new panel bow soft-top in black or Moonlight black is 40 percent lighter than the previous hardtop and has a flush-fitting glass window. It looks quite sleek when raised, a process that takes 18 seconds at speeds of up to 31 mph. At the back, there are the same elongated taillights as the normal M4 Coupe as well as large quad-exit tailpipes. Overall, the car is 4.6 inches longer than its predecessor and 1.4 inches wider than the new, less powerful 4 Series Convertible.

BMW didn't share images of the M4 Competition Convertible's interior but expect the usual M touches like M buttons on the steering wheel, red accents for elements like the start/stop button, M sport seats, and available M Carbon bucket seats that save 21 pounds. A 12.3-inch digital driver's display and a 10.25-inch central touchscreen are standard, but you'll need to pay extra for a head-up display. There are plenty of options including an M Carbon Exterior Package.

BMW has freed up 1.2 cubic feet of extra cargo space thanks to the use of the soft-top roof and also promises lower wind noise.

Of course, being a Competition model, the M4 Convertible needs to drive well. Like other modern xDrive systems, a RWD mode can be accessed with the electronic nannies turned off although this is only recommended for more controlled environments. The long wheelbase, interlinked bracing that increases longitudinal and torsional stiffness, and a lower center of gravity afforded by the lighter roof should make the M4 Competition Convertible a fine handler.

Pricing begins at $86,300 and excludes a $995 destination charge. Production gets underway in September this year and the market launch will follow in October.