How Much Is It to Lease a Bmw M4

Leasing a BMW M4 typically costs between $1,200 and $1,800 per month, depending on your down payment, credit score, and lease terms. With a strong emphasis on performance and luxury, the M4 offers an exhilarating driving experience at a lower upfront cost than buying. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to lease one smartly.

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Key Takeaways

• Monthly lease payments for a BMW M4 range from $1,200 to $1,800. This depends on factors like your down payment, credit score, and the length of the lease.
• Leasing requires lower upfront costs than buying. You’ll pay less in taxes, registration, and down payment, making it a budget-friendly option for luxury car lovers.
• Typical lease terms are 24 to 36 months. Shorter leases cost more per month but offer more flexibility, while longer ones reduce monthly payments.
• You’ll need excellent credit (700+) to get the best rates. Lenders favor borrowers with strong credit histories for luxury leases.
• Mileage limits apply—usually 10,000 to 15,000 miles per year. Exceeding this can result in hefty per-mile fees at the end of the lease.
• Wear and tear charges may apply when returning the vehicle. Minor scratches are normal, but excessive damage can increase your final bill.
• Negotiating the capitalized cost can save you hundreds per month. Always ask for a lower price or incentives like waived fees or free maintenance.

How Much Is It to Lease a BMW M4? A Complete Guide

So, you’ve got your eyes on the BMW M4—a sleek, high-performance coupe that turns heads and delivers thrills on every drive. But instead of buying, you’re considering leasing. That’s a smart move if you want to enjoy the luxury and power of an M4 without the long-term commitment or depreciation hit. But how much is it to lease a BMW M4, really?

The short answer? You’re looking at monthly payments between $1,200 and $1,800. But that number can shift based on several factors—your credit score, how much you put down, the length of the lease, and even the dealership you choose. Unlike buying, leasing lets you drive a new M4 every few years with lower monthly payments and minimal maintenance worries. It’s perfect if you love driving the latest models and want to avoid the hassle of selling a car later.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about leasing a BMW M4—from average costs and lease terms to hidden fees and negotiation tips. Whether you’re a first-time lessee or a seasoned luxury car enthusiast, this breakdown will help you make an informed decision and get the best deal possible.

Understanding BMW M4 Lease Pricing

When it comes to leasing a BMW M4, the price isn’t just about the car—it’s about the math behind the lease. BMW Financial Services and other lenders use a formula that includes the car’s capitalized cost (what you’re leasing), the residual value (what it’s worth at the end), the money factor (interest rate), and your lease term. Let’s break it down.

The BMW M4 starts at around $75,000 for the base model, but most leased M4s are well-equipped with performance packages, premium interiors, and tech upgrades, pushing the MSRP closer to $85,000–$95,000. When you lease, you’re only paying for the car’s depreciation during the lease period, plus interest and fees.

For example, if the M4 has a 36-month lease term and a 55% residual value, that means it’s expected to be worth about $47,000 at the end of the lease. You’re essentially paying for the $38,000 difference over three years, plus interest. Add in taxes, fees, and your down payment, and that’s how your monthly payment is calculated.

Typical Monthly Payment Ranges

So, what does that look like in real numbers? Based on current market data and dealer quotes from 2024, here’s a realistic breakdown:

• Base M4 (24-month lease, $5,000 down): $1,400–$1,600/month
• Base M4 (36-month lease, $3,000 down): $1,200–$1,400/month
• M4 Competition (36-month lease, $5,000 down): $1,600–$1,800/month
• M4 Competition xDrive (36-month lease, $7,000 down): $1,700–$1,900/month

Keep in mind, these are estimates. Your actual payment could be lower or higher depending on your credit, location, and dealer incentives. Some dealerships offer promotional lease deals—especially at the end of the model year—that can drop your monthly payment by $100 or more.

Factors That Influence Lease Cost

Several key factors determine how much you’ll pay to lease a BMW M4:

• Down Payment (Cap Cost Reduction): The more you put down, the lower your monthly payment. But be cautious—putting too much down means you could lose that money if the car is totaled in an accident.
• Credit Score: Lenders use your credit to set the money factor (interest rate). A score above 720 will get you the best rates. Below 680, and you might face higher payments or be denied.
• Lease Term: Shorter leases (24 months) have higher monthly payments but lower total interest. Longer leases (36–48 months) spread out the cost but may cost more overall.
• Mileage Allowance: Most leases include 10,000 to 15,000 miles per year. Go over, and you’ll pay $0.20–$0.30 per extra mile.
• Residual Value: BMW sets the residual based on market predictions. Higher residuals mean lower monthly payments.
• Dealer Incentives: BMW often runs lease specials, like reduced money factors or waived acquisition fees. These can save you hundreds.

BMW M4 Lease Terms and Conditions

Leasing a BMW M4 isn’t just about signing a contract and driving off—it comes with specific terms and conditions that affect your experience and cost. Understanding these details can help you avoid surprises and make the most of your lease.

Standard Lease Duration

Most BMW M4 leases run for 24, 36, or 48 months. Here’s what to expect:

• 24-Month Lease: Ideal if you like driving a new car every two years. Payments are higher, but you’re not locked in long-term. Great for people who want the latest tech and performance updates.
• 36-Month Lease: The most popular option. It balances monthly cost and flexibility. You’ll pay less per month than a 24-month lease and still enjoy the car for a reasonable time.
• 48-Month Lease: Lowest monthly payments, but you’re committing to nearly four years. Riskier if you’re unsure about long-term needs or if the car’s value drops faster than expected.

For most drivers, a 36-month lease offers the best value. It’s long enough to enjoy the M4’s performance and luxury, but short enough to avoid major wear and tear issues.

Mileage Limits and Excess Fees

Every lease includes a mileage cap—usually 10,000, 12,000, or 15,000 miles per year. The standard for BMW M4 leases is often 12,000 miles annually. If you drive more than that, you’ll be charged an excess mileage fee, typically between $0.20 and $0.30 per mile.

For example, if your lease allows 36,000 miles over three years and you drive 42,000, you’ll owe $1,800 in excess fees ($0.30 x 6,000 miles). That’s a big hit at the end of your lease.

Wear and Tear Guidelines

BMW defines “excessive wear and tear” as damage beyond normal use. This includes:

• Dents larger than a quarter
• Scratches longer than 4 inches
• Stains or burns in the interior
• Damaged wheels or tires
• Mechanical issues not covered by warranty

Minor scuffs, light carpet wear, and small paint chips are usually acceptable. But if you’re hard on your car, consider purchasing a wear-and-tear protection plan or budgeting for repairs before returning the vehicle.

Early Termination and Buyout Options

Want to end your lease early? It’s possible, but it’ll cost you. Early termination fees can run into the thousands, depending on how much time is left. However, if you find a buyer willing to take over your lease (a process called lease transfer), you might avoid some fees.

Alternatively, you can buy the M4 at the end of the lease for its residual value. If the market value is higher than the residual, you could sell it for a profit. But if it’s lower, you’re better off returning it.

How to Get the Best BMW M4 Lease Deal

Leasing a BMW M4 doesn’t have to break the bank. With the right strategy, you can score a great deal and enjoy this performance coupe for less. Here’s how to maximize value and minimize cost.

Negotiate the Capitalized Cost

The capitalized cost is the price of the car you’re leasing—similar to the purchase price when buying. The lower it is, the lower your monthly payment. Always negotiate this number, just like you would when buying.

Start by researching the invoice price (what the dealer paid) and any current incentives. Use tools like Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book, or TrueCar to find fair market pricing. Then, ask the dealer to match or beat online quotes. Even a $2,000 reduction in cap cost can save you $60–$80 per month.

Time Your Lease Right

Timing is everything. BMW often introduces new models in the fall, so dealerships may offer aggressive lease deals in late summer to clear out inventory. Look for promotions in August, September, or December (during holiday sales events).

Also, end-of-quarter (March, June, September, December) is a great time to lease. Dealers are trying to meet sales targets and may be more willing to negotiate.

Take Advantage of Incentives

BMW Financial Services frequently offers lease incentives, such as:

• Reduced money factors (lower interest rates)
• Waived acquisition fees ($925 value)
• Free maintenance for the first year
• Loyalty credits for returning BMW lessees
• Conquest bonuses for switching from a competitor brand

Ask your dealer about current programs. These can significantly reduce your monthly payment or upfront costs.

Consider a Walk-Away Lease vs. $1 Buyout

Most BMW M4 leases are “walk-away” leases, meaning you return the car at the end with no further obligation (other than fees for excess wear or mileage). This is the most common and flexible option.

However, some leases offer a $1 buyout option, which means you can purchase the car for $1 at the end. These leases often have higher monthly payments because you’re essentially financing the full value. Only choose this if you plan to keep the car long-term.

Shop Around and Compare Offers

Don’t settle for the first offer. Get quotes from at least three BMW dealerships in your area. Use online lease calculators to compare payments, terms, and fees. Even small differences in the money factor or cap cost can add up over time.

Pro tip: Use competing offers as leverage. Tell one dealer you have a better quote elsewhere—they may match or beat it to win your business.

Pros and Cons of Leasing a BMW M4

Leasing a BMW M4 has clear advantages, but it’s not for everyone. Let’s weigh the pros and cons to help you decide if it’s the right choice.

Advantages of Leasing

• Lower Monthly Payments: You’re only paying for depreciation, not the full value of the car. This means you can drive a $90,000 M4 for less than a $50,000 sedan when buying.
• Drive a New Car Every Few Years: Love the latest tech and performance? Leasing lets you upgrade to a new M4 every 2–3 years.
• Warranty Coverage: Most leases fall within the factory warranty period (4 years/50,000 miles), so repairs are covered.
• Lower Sales Tax: In many states, you only pay sales tax on the monthly payment, not the full price of the car.
• No Resale Hassle: Return the car at the end—no need to sell or trade it in.

Disadvantages of Leasing

• No Ownership: You don’t build equity. At the end of the lease, you have nothing to show for your payments.
• Mileage Restrictions: Exceeding your limit can result in steep fees.
• Wear and Tear Fees: You’re responsible for damage beyond normal use.
• Early Termination Costs: Ending the lease early is expensive.
• Higher Long-Term Cost: If you lease repeatedly, you’ll pay more over time than if you bought and kept the car.

For performance enthusiasts who want the latest M4 without long-term commitment, leasing is a great option. But if you drive a lot, plan to keep the car long-term, or hate monthly car payments, buying might be better.

Real-World Lease Example: 2024 BMW M4 Competition

Let’s put it all together with a realistic example.

You want to lease a 2024 BMW M4 Competition with the M Carbon exterior package, Executive Package, and M Driver’s Package. The MSRP is $94,500.

• Capitalized Cost (after negotiation): $90,000
• Down Payment: $5,000
• Residual Value (36-month, 55%): $51,975
• Money Factor: 0.00125 (equivalent to 3% APR)
• Lease Term: 36 months
• Mileage Allowance: 12,000 miles/year

Using a lease calculator, your monthly payment comes out to approximately $1,520, including taxes and fees. Over three years, you’ll pay about $54,720 in total lease payments, plus the $5,000 down payment.

At the end, you return the car (assuming no excess wear or mileage), and you’re free to lease a new M4 or walk away.

This example shows how leasing lets you enjoy a high-end performance car without the $94,500 price tag—just be mindful of the long-term costs.

Final Thoughts: Is Leasing a BMW M4 Worth It?

So, how much is it to lease a BMW M4? On average, you’re looking at $1,200 to $1,800 per month, depending on your setup. While that’s not cheap, it’s a fraction of what you’d pay to buy the car outright.

Leasing makes sense if you:

• Want to drive a luxury performance car without a huge upfront cost
• Enjoy upgrading to new models every few years
• Stay within mileage limits and treat the car well
• Have good credit and can qualify for low money factors

But if you drive a lot, plan to keep the car long-term, or prefer building equity, buying might be the smarter financial move.

Ultimately, leasing a BMW M4 is about more than money—it’s about the experience. The roar of the twin-turbo inline-6, the grip of the adaptive suspension, the luxury of the leather-trimmed cabin—it’s a driving thrill few cars can match. And with smart planning, you can enjoy that thrill for less.

Before you sign, do your research, negotiate hard, and compare offers. And remember: the best lease deal isn’t just the lowest monthly payment—it’s the one that fits your lifestyle, budget, and driving habits.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to lease a BMW M4 per month?

Monthly lease payments for a BMW M4 typically range from $1,200 to $1,800, depending on the model, down payment, credit score, and lease term. The M4 Competition and xDrive versions usually cost more due to higher MSRPs and performance features.

Can I lease a BMW M4 with bad credit?

It’s possible, but difficult. Most BMW leases require a credit score of 700 or higher. With lower scores, you may face higher interest rates, larger down payments, or denial. Consider improving your credit or exploring subprime leasing options, though they come with higher costs.

What happens if I go over my mileage limit?

If you exceed your annual mileage allowance (usually 10,000–15,000 miles), you’ll be charged an excess mileage fee, typically $0.20 to $0.30 per mile. For example, driving 18,000 miles in a year with a 12,000-mile limit could cost you $1,800 extra.

Can I negotiate a BMW M4 lease?

Yes! You can negotiate the capitalized cost, down payment, and even the money factor. Research fair market pricing, use competing offers, and ask for incentives like waived fees or free maintenance to get the best deal.

Is it better to lease or buy a BMW M4?

Leasing is better if you want lower monthly payments, enjoy driving new cars every few years, and stay within mileage limits. Buying is better if you plan to keep the car long-term, drive a lot, or want to build equity. It depends on your financial goals and driving habits.

Can I end my BMW M4 lease early?

Yes, but it’s expensive. Early termination fees can cost thousands of dollars. A better option may be a lease transfer, where someone takes over your payments. Check your lease agreement for specific terms and penalties.