BMW M3 and M4 now sound better thanks to update

BMW has released a new over-the-air software update overseas for its BMW M3 and M4 that improves the high-performance sedan and coupe's soundtrack.

Those hoping for some exhaust valve cleverness or ECU trickery might be disappointed to hear that the new update only alters the artificial synthesised sound played over the car's sound system, with BMW aiming to improve the "refinement of the sound when starting the engine".

There's no explanation how the start-up procedure has been enhanced but post-update it's thought a more rousing roar is piped into the cabin to add to the drama that's not allowed nowadays in the wake of stricter noise regulations governing exhaust sound.

As well as the more thunderous start, owners of the BMW M3 and M4 Competition with the eight-speed auto fitted will also be treated to extra theatrics mid-gear.

Again, there's no description from BMW on how it sounds, other than to say that the update brings a "clearer audio confirmation of gear changes and changes in shifting loads".

As well as M3 and M4 models, the latest over-the-air update also improves all BMWs fitted with the iDrive 7 operating system by adding a more sophisticated lane departure warning function that can now detect narrow roads without centre marking.

When a BMW now finds itself on a single-track road it avoids steering interventions that, in the past, could see the car inadvertently steer itself potentially into the path of oncoming traffic.

The navigation system has also been updated to detect congestion and provide better optimised routes.

BMW's digital key, which allows owners to use their phone to unlock and drive their car, also expands to Samsung Galaxy S21 and Google Pixel 6 phones.

Spotify, Sirius XM Pandora app and BMW's own News app have all been upgraded.