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- Highs Sporty looks, choice of strong and efficient engines, good driving dynamics.
- Lows Tight back seat, less cargo space than many competitors, M40i sacrifices ride comfort for handling.
- Verdict The X4 shines as a solid pick for buyers seeking a small luxury SUV with a handsome design and stirring performance.
Overview
Apply “sports coupe” styling to a BMW sports sedan, raise the suspension to make it an SUV with standard all-wheel-drive, and you have the concept behind both the BMW X6 and the X4 models. The X4 launched in the 2015 model year, slotting between the X3 compact SUV and the X5 mid-size SUV, but with the rakish “fastback” roofline of the mid-size X6. The X4 is truly a niche model, available as the 28i, with a twin-turbo inline-four, or the M40i, with a twin-turbo inline-six. Note that the X4 M40i is not a full-fledged BMW M performance model, leaving space for such a variant at a future date.
What's New for 2017?
Besides dropping the X4 35i, BMW for 2017 added an M Sport package option to the 28i model, as well as a new M leather steering wheel for this base variant. A new exterior paint color option is Chestnut Bronze metallic.
Pricing
Original MSRP:
- 28i: $46,545
- M40i: $59,095
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The X4 28i comes with a 240-hp, twin-turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four, offering decent performance, though with more emphasis on cornering than straight-line acceleration. For that, the X4 M40i offers 355 horsepower and 343 pound-feet of torque, good for an eye-watering 4.4-second 0-60 mph time. Either engine comes with an eight-speed automatic, transferring power to all four wheels via BMW's xDrive system. The M40i also comes with a firmed-up suspension that helps it go, turn, and stop more like a sports car than an SUV, though along with that there's the downside of a bruising ride. The latest version of BMW’s electromechanical power steering is better than before but still suffers inert feel and feedback. But the xDrive AWD system works seamlessly as it shuttles power between the wheels as needed.
Fuel Economy
EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The X4’s cabin features dark, high-quality upholstery and plastic, metal, or wood trim that can be brightened up with optional M Sport interior treatments. The X4’s lowered roofline doesn’t cut into the interior space as much as you might expect, but it's still tight in the back seat. And there's less of the “command” driving position SUV buyers seek, though the lower center of gravity contributes to superb body control during hard cornering. Cargo capacity is 49.4 cubic-feet with the rear seat lowered. That’s not stellar—you might have to remove the front wheel of your bicycle to fit it in back of this “sports activity vehicle.”
Infotainment and Connectivity
The 2017 X4 comes with BMW’s latest iDrive 5.0 interface with an 8.8-inch touchscreen display. It includes such features as wireless charging, a WiFi hotspot, Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, and a nine-speaker audio system. Options include navigation, wireless charging, and a premium Harman Kardon stereo with satellite radio.
Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings
For more information about the BMW X4’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
Warranty
Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.