BMW M3 F80 & M4 F82 Tuning: The Suspension Both Cars Deserve
Two body styles, one powertrain: Since their market launch in 2014, the BMW M3 F80 and its sister model, the M4 F82, have shared the same technical foundation: the S55 inline-six engine, which delivers up to 431 PS as standard when paired with rear-wheel drive. BMW has deliberately kept the two model lines separate: the M3 is a four-door sedan and the M4 is a two-door coupé with its own distinct character. What unites them is an engine whose potential is only partially realised by the production-spec suspension tuning. This is precisely the area in which our suspension development comes into play.
Discover the difference between stock & KW
The factory suspension
The standard suspension of the BMW M3 F80 and M4 F82 is designed to provide direct, sporty feedback during everyday driving, offering high levels of precision. However, at the limits of handling, the factory tuning reveals clear limitations. At high speeds, for example, the front axle lifts and loses steering precision noticeably, while the rear axle is factory-tuned for comfort and becomes underdamped when driving at the dynamic limit. Combined with the 550 Nm of torque available from an early stage, this setup can lead to abrupt oversteer, placing high demands on both the driver and the suspension.
KW V3
The KW V3 coilover suspension kit for the M3 (F80) and M4 (F82) models provides a drop of between 15 and 40 mm, and features independently adjustable compression and rebound damping at the front and rear. This feature specifically addresses the well-known weaknesses of the F8x generation. With over 12 clicks, the rear axle's compression damping can be adjusted to provide a more stable rear end at the limit, and the separate front axle tuning improves steering response. The rebound damping remains unaffected with 16 clicks, allowing the suspension characteristics to be tuned for performance without compromising basic comfort on long journeys.
All available M3/M4 coilover suspensions at a glance
Customized lowering
This coilover suspension offers maximum possible lowering, customized to your vehicle model. You can also change this at any time after installation.
Adjustable rebound (low-speed)
You'll notice the difference with every click! Here, you can adjust the low-speed rebound with 16 clicks. This adjusts the ride characteristics, making them either harder or more comfortable.
Adjustable compression damping (low-speed)
You can fine-tune the low-speed compression damping even after installation. The vehicle's handling and stability will benefit from 12 clicks.
Composite spring disc
The height-adjustable KW spring plate is made from a resistant and friction-optimized polyamide composite material with a stainless steel insert. In contrast to anodized aluminum adjustable spring plates, the polyamide composite material prevents possible oxidation.
Additional technologies
Here are some topics about the BMW M3 F80 and M4 F82 that our community is curious about
What is the difference between KW V3 and KW V4 for the BMW M4 F82?
Both suspension systems offer custom lowering and adjustable damping technology for the BMW M4 F82. The KW V3 allows for independent adjustment of compression and rebound damping (2-way). The KW V4 goes a step further: It enables separate adjustment of compression damping in the low-speed and high-speed ranges (3-way). For drivers who regularly push their M4 F82 to the limit or want to fine-tune it to their preferences, the V4 offers significantly more setup flexibility.
Is it possible to install coilover suspension on an M4 F82 with EDC without compromising the electronic functionality?
Yes, that’s exactly what the KW DDC Plug & Play coilover suspension was designed for. It replaces the stock struts on the BMW M4 F82 and connects directly to the stock onboard electronics via compatible connectors. The electronics recognize the KW DDC suspension immediately, and all original controls and driving modes remain fully intact. In addition, the driver benefits from maximum, infinitely variable lowering and the characteristic KW suspension precision, without compromising on function or comfort.
Which BMW M3 F80 tuning parts are suitable for track use?
For regular track day use with sport tires, we recommend the V3 Clubsport or the V4 Clubsport coilover suspension for the BMW M3 F80. The base setups for both suspensions were developed on the Nordschleife. The adjustable aluminum Unibal top mounts with camber adjustment allow for optimization of the tire contact patch. Both versions are street-legal and come with a parts certificate. You can comfortably drive to the track in your own car.
Is a KW coilover suspension suitable for everyday use in the BMW M3 F80?
Yes, KW Suspensions develops all its street suspension systems specifically for everyday use. The KW V3, for example, comes with a vehicle-specific base tuning that was developed on a 7-post dynamic test bench and offers a sporty yet comfortable setup right out of the box, suitable for both long-distance driving and city traffic. Thanks to the separately adjustable compression and rebound damping, the driver can switch between comfort-oriented and performance-oriented characteristics at any time.