BMW X4 (2014 – 2018) Review

April 2013

BMW X4 revealed

The X4 is the second Sporty Activity Coupe in the brands model range and will be built at BMW Plant Spartanburg in the USA, the competence centre for BMW X models which also produces the BMW X5, BMW X6 and BMW X3.

The sporting character of the BMW Concept X4 is articulated by its dynamic lines as well as its proportions. With a body length of 4,648mm, a width of 1,915mm and a height of 1,622mm, its exterior dimensions signal sporting elegance and powerful robustness. In addition to a long bonnet, short overhangs and set back passenger cell, its signature BMW features include a long wheel-base measuring 2,810mm, while 21-inch light-alloy wheels lend an added flourish to the athletic bearing of this Sports Activity Coupé.

Expressive 21-inch bi-colour light-alloy wheels round off the car’s appearance when viewed from the side. Intricate, high-gloss polished spokes provide visual allure, while behind them dark-coloured flame surfaces contribute an impressive feeling of depth.

The rear of the BMW Concept X4 takes the sporting, width-accentuating elements of the front-end design and reproduces them with an emphatically horizontal flavour. The body’s lines and the slim LED tail lights positioned at the outer edges of the rear emphasise the muscular wheel arches and wide track. Below, horizontal lines split the rear visually into sections, while light surfaces reduce the car’s visual height and underline its width.

March 2014

Production X4 unveiled

The new BMW X4 combines the hallmark features of the BMW X family with the sporting elegance of a classical coupe, resulting in BMW’s first Sports Activity Coupe for the premium mid-size segment.

At 4,671 millimetres in length, it is just 14 millimetres longer than the X3, but at 1,624mm high it is also 36 millimetres lower to the ground and cuts a dynamic profile with its perfectly balanced proportions and distinctive sporting character.

The BMW X4 offers a level of standard equipment well above that found on the BMW X3. As standard it comes with an automatically opening tailgate, Variable Sport Steering, 18-inch light-alloy wheels, front and rear Park Distance Control, Performance Control and Xenon headlights. Inside the BMW X4 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats, a Sport leather steering wheel, Heated front seats and BMW Business Media package are all standard.

For an additional £1,500 the xLine trim level was also available on the BMW X4. This includes an exclusive 18-inch light-alloy wheel, Satin Aluminium exterior trim, Dark Copper interior trim, Sport seats and exclusive xLine leather upholstery.

The popular M Sport model costs an additional £3,000 over the SE and offers even greater dynamics and visually boosts the X4’s sporting appeal. The M Aerodynamic bodystyling, High-gloss Shadow Line trim exterior trim and an exclusive 19-inch M Sport light-alloy wheels lends the BMW X4 an even more sporty appearance, while the M Sport suspension enhances the ride. BMW M door sill finishers, Sport seats and an Aluminium Hexagon interior trim add the finishing touches.

All BMW X4 models have a sporty suspension set-up and come with BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system as standard. This ensures that the drive is split between the rear wheels continuously and as required, which further improves traction, turn-in and directional stability. Working in tandem with the standard Variable Sport Steering, these systems allow the BMW X4 to deliver driving dynamics that surpass even those of the BMW X3 in terms of sportiness. An xDrive status display uses three-dimensional graphics to keep the driver informed of the car’s body roll and pitch.

From launch the new BMW X4 was available with a choice three diesel engines. The BMW X4 xDrive20d is powered by a newly developed 2.0-litre diesel engine with an all-aluminium construction. This power unit develops 190hp at 4,000rpm with a peak torque of 400Nm. As a result, the X4 xDrive20d requires just 8.0 seconds to sprint from zero to 62mph. The BMW X4 xDrive20d comes as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox but can be optionally specified with an the eight-speed automatic transmission which brings fuel consumption down to 54.3mpg and sets the CO2emission at 138g/km.

The 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line engine in the BMW X4 xDrive30d, paired with the standard eight-speed Sport automatic transmission, returns a combined mpg of 47.9 while CO2emissions are just 156 g/km. These parsimonious emissions don’t impact the performance with the engine outputting 258hp at 4,000rpm with a peak torque of 560Nm from as low as 1,500rpm, while it accelerates from zero to 62mph in 5.8 seconds.

The xDrive35d engine tops the BMW X4 line-up. The 3.0-litre diesel delivers 313hp and puts a peak torque of 630Nm on tap from between 1,500 and 2,500rpm. With its standard-fitted Launch Control, the X4 xDrive35d launches from zero to 62mph in a mere 5.2 seconds and goes onto a top speed of 153mph. However, the X4 xDrive35d still posts fuel consumption of just 47.1mpg and emits only 157g/km CO2. The BMW X4 is priced from £36,590 OTR for an X4 xDrive20d SE.

February 2018

BMW X4 revised and upgraded for 2018

with World premiere at Geneva Motor Show in March 2018. Two BMW M Performance versions available: BMW X4 M40i and BMW X40d. Available to order from 15-2-2018 with prices starting at £42,000 OTR. The 2018 X4 gains enhanced driving dynamics, standout exterior design with a strong coupé silhouette and even more refinement, along with state-of-the-art driver assistance systems and connectivity.

The "all-new" BMW X4 is 81mm longer than its predecessor, with 54mm added to the wheelbase and 37mm extra width. It is also lower by 3mm. All of these elements come together to give it dynamically stretched proportions that emphasise its perfect 50:50 weight distribution and hint at the enhanced performance potential. It retains the brand’s trademark BMW kidney grille and twin headlight units, while the new horizontal LED fog lights integrated into the outer air intakes form a new interpretation of the familiar X model face. All models feature Adaptive LED headlights as standard. The side profile is marked out by a sweeping shoulder line, with clearly defined haunches and distinctive wheel arches, while the lean coupé roofline is enhanced by a smoothly rising sill line and an elongated take on the Hofmeister kink “counter-swing” at the base of the C-pillars. Clearly structured surfaces and horizontal lines shape the car’s tail. The L-shaped LED rear lights, with their three-dimensional housing, are slim in design and positioned at the extreme edges of the rear. Together with the twin exhaust tailpipes (shared by all engine variants), they magnify the width of the rear end.

The X4 M Sport has a more dynamic look, clearly stating its eagerness to deliver performance on the road with its aerodynamically optimised front/rear aprons and side skirts, and accents in High-gloss Black. The newly designed M Sport X model radiates an air of off-road-focused sportiness, thanks to styling accents in Frozen Grey (a colour with rally racing connotations), as well as the individually designed air intakes, side skirts and rear underguard. The standard specification of ‘Sport’ marks the entry point to X4 ownership.

In addition, the 2018 X4 can now also be specified with options from the BMW Individual portfolio. Extras designed to give the exterior design an exceptionally exclusive feel include the BMW Individual paint finish Sunstone metallic and 21-inch BMW Individual light-alloy wheels.

Inside the 2018 BMW X4 is a cabin with a modern, premium feel, which exudes an air of high-class elegance. All the controls are clearly arranged, while the slightly raised seating position typical of BMW X models afford drivers a superb view of the road ahead. Redesigned sports seats with boldly contoured side bolsters provide outstanding lateral support even in extreme handling situations.

The electric window buttons, the Start/Stop button, the multifunction buttons on the sports steering wheel and the controls on the centre console can also be embellished with galvanic detailing as an option. Ambient lighting, adding extra light sources around the centre console and instrument panel, in the door panelling and in the footwells, enhances the sense of wellbeing. The lighting mood can be adjusted by the driver, with a choice of six colours. Large stowage trays, roomy door pockets, cupholders and various storage compartments add extra practicality.

The M Sport model also comes with M-specific sports seats in Vernasca leather, an M leather steering wheel and an anthracite-coloured BMW Individual headliner, complemented by interior trim strips in Aluminium Rhombicle with accent strips in Pearl-effect Chrome. The M Sport X model features all of the M Sport interior content with a unique Aluminium Rhombicle Dark with Pearl-effect Chrome accent trim.

Vernasca leather upholstery is standard on all UK models and is now also available in Tacora Red alongside a new black with red contrast stitching option, both exclusive to the all-new BMW X4.

The BMW Individual portfolio offers an additional number of model-specific options. These highly exclusive options include BMW Individual extended Merino leather upholstery (in the colour combinations Ivory White/Black, Fiona Red/Black and Tartufo/Black), BMW Individual interior trim in Piano Black and door sill strips with BMW Individual lettering.

A wider choice of optional extras compared to the outgoing model offers greater scope for customers to increase both the comfort and functionality of their X4.

The range includes electrically adjustable seats, heat seating for the front and rear and active seat ventilation. A panoramic glass roof with much larger dimensions than the predecessors can also be chosen as an option. The two-section glass has an overall length of 924 millimetres and a width of 890 millimetres, allowing the amount of light in the interior and the supply of fresh air to be altered as required. The sun blind is electrically operated, as is the front section of the glass roof.

The standard acoustic glass for the windscreen reduces noise levels while driving, while the front side windows can be specified with this type of glass as an option.

Another new option is the BMW Display Key. Fuel level, remaining range and service information are all shown on its 2.2-inch touch display, while the key can also be used to lock the doors, close the windows and operate the optional auxiliary heating system.

Three full-size seats are fitted in the rear compartment of the X4, providing passengers with an additional 27 millimetres of legroom over the previous model. The boot has a capacity of 525 litres and the load space can be expanded to a maximum of 1,430 litres by folding down the sections of the rear backrest, with its standard 40:20:40 split.

There is also the option of Extended Storage, comprising of features such as additional hinged compartments, USB ports and 12V sockets, as well as multifunctional hooks and lashing rails in the boot.

The new X4 is launched with a choice of latest-generation power units comprising of two diesel engines – xDrive20d and M40d. Their advanced BMW TwinPower Turbo technology promises dynamic power delivery accompanied by remarkably low fuel consumption and emissions.

Joining the BMW M Performance model of the M40d is the petrol-powered six-cylinder in-line engine M40i as well as another straight-six diesel unit - xDrive30d. All model variants direct their engine’s power to the road via an eight-speed Steptronic transmission and BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive as standard, resulting in effortless progress over smooth roads and rough terrain alike. Gear selections can be made manually using the shift paddles on the steering wheel.

The BMW M Performance models and the BMW X4 xDrive30d are equipped with an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission offering exceptionally fast gear changes as well as a Launch Control function. The standard-fit Driving Experience Control switch lets drivers choose from SPORT, COMFORT and ECO PRO set-ups, while the BMW X4 M40i, BMW X4 M40d and BMW X4 xDrive30d models also add a SPORT+ mode.

The BMW TwinPower Turbo technology for the petrol engine comprises a twin-scroll turbocharger, High Precision Injection, VALVETRONIC fully variable valve timing and Double-VANOS variable camshaft control. On the diesel side, the raft of technological measures includes turbochargers with variable inlet geometry and common-rail direct injection systems operating at pressures of up to 2,500 bar. All model variants comply with the requirements of the EU6d emissions standard. The system of emission control for the petrol engine includes a particulate filter that cuts down particulate emissions, while the diesel models boast BMW BluePerformance technology comprising a particulate filter, an oxidation catalyst, a NOx adsorption catalyst, as well as an SCR catalyst with AdBlue injection.

BMW EfficientLightweight measures include an increase in the proportion of aluminium as well as high-strength and ultra-high-strength grades of steel. The body structure is more solid than ever, serving up benefits for both vehicle agility and occupant protection. At the same time, the all-new BMW X4 weighs up to 50kg less than its predecessor (allowing for equipment variations and depending on the engine variant). The car has a significantly lower centre of gravity than the new X3, and this enhances the Sports Activity Coupé’s cornering dynamics, in particular. There is also a reduction in aerodynamic drag of around 10 per cent. This advance has been achieved by streamlining the body at the same time as incorporating a raft of additional measures, including active air flap control, the ‘Air Curtains’ in the front apron and additional underbody cladding. The X4 sets a new benchmark in its segment with a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.30.

The latest generation of BMW xDrive adds less weight, while its internal efficiency has been increased. Plus, the wonderfully precise electronic control of the intelligent all- wheel drive also splits drive power to maximise sporting performance; the rear-biased set-up produces a highly rewarding driving experience, especially when powering through corners. Besides offering superior handling stability, BMW xDrive also enhances traction over loose terrain, endowing the X4 with off-road capability. With a ground clearance of 204 millimetres, a fording depth of 500 millimetres, breakover angle of 19.4° and angles of approach and departure of 25.7° and 22.6° respectively, the Sports Activity Coupé takes everything in its stride, from crests and bumps in the road to gravel tracks, deep snow and steep slopes when leaving the asphalt behind.

The 2018 BMW X4 boasts a marked increase in agility combined with a high degree of ride comfort, courtesy of chassis technology that has been systematically refined and honed for the specific requirements of the Sports Activity Coupé. The design principle of a double-joint spring strut axle at the front and five-link rear axle forms the ideal basis for a blend of dynamism and comfort, whilst the use of aluminium swivel bearings, lightweight tubular anti-roll bars and new wheel location components at the front axle has brought about a considerable reduction in unsprung mass. Standard specification for the 2018 BMW X4 includes not only M Sport suspension but also variable sport steering. Specially tuned to deliver extra-dynamic handling qualities, this version of the Electric Power Steering system ensures precision through keenly taken corners and supreme straight-line stability. The speed-sensitive Servotronic power assistance, meanwhile, makes light work of manoeuvring.

The car’s impressively sporty and sure-footed handling characteristics are further helped by the powerful lightweight braking system and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system, whose features includes an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Automatic Differential Brake (ADB-X), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Start-Off Assistant and Hill Descent Control (HDC).

The Performance Control function, also included as standard, gives the X4 even sharper handling by varying the distribution of drive torque to the rear wheels according to the situation at hand. 18-inch light-alloy wheels also form part of standard specification, while further wheel options up to 21 inches in size can be found on the list of extras.

Optional M Sport brakes (standard on xDrive30d M Sport, M Sport X and M Performance Models) allow drivers to enjoy exceptionally dynamic handling with phenomenal stopping power. The system comprises of extra-large brake discs and blue-painted callipers. The various suspension systems that are optionally available include Adaptive Suspension, featuring electronically controlled dampers, the responses of which adjust to the nature of the road and driving style. Drivers can choose between a sportier or more comfortable basic setting by activating the relevant performance maps using the Driving Experience Control switch.

The BMW X4 M40i and BMW X4 M40d offer extra edge. A six-cylinder in-line petrol engine in the 2018 BMW X4 M40i and a straight-six diesel unit in the all-new BMW X4 M40d provide the underpinnings for an exhilarating form of driving pleasure. The engines under the bonnets of the two BMW M Performance Automobiles stand out with their instantaneous response and tireless power delivery. With its trademark free-revving performance, maximum output of 360hp and peak torque of 500Nm, the power unit in the X4 M40i enables it to accelerate from zero to 62 mph in just 4.8 seconds. Combined fuel consumption stands at 31.4mpg imp*, equating to CO2 emissions of 209g/km.* The 2018 BMW X4 M40d makes its mark on the road with prodigious pulling power. Its BMW M Performance diesel engine generates output of 326hp and peak torque of 680Nm. The BMW X4 M40d darts to 62mph from rest in 4.9 seconds, but also blends its sporty essence with excellent efficiency, as demonstrated by average fuel consumption of 44.1mpg and a CO2 figure of 170g/km.*

A latest-generation six-cylinder in-line diesel engine gives the all-new BMW X4 xDrive30d vast reserves of pulling power. The maximum output of 265hp and peak torque of 620Nm propel it to 62mph from rest in 5.8 seconds, with combined fuel consumption of 47.9mpg*, equating to CO2 emissions of 156g/km*.

The X4 xDrive20d is powered by a 190hp diesel engine whose torque peaks at 400Nm. It accelerates in 8.0 seconds from zero to 62mph and returns an average consumption of 52.3mpg and CO2 emissions of 142g/km*.

* Provisional fuel consumption and emissions figures as per the EU test cycle, may vary depending on the tyre format specified.

The power delivery of the six-cylinder in-line engines is accompanied by a soundtrack to match. The flap-controlled M sports exhaust system on the BMW M Performance models doesn’t just make a great impression acoustically, its trapezoidal tailpipes in black chrome form a stunning visual highlight. Power is relayed to the wheels via an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission including standard Launch Control. The sporty nature of the two BMW M Performance models is further helped by the rear- biased set-up of the BMW xDrive all-wheel drive and the Performance Control function. The M Sport differential (also standard) generates a precise locking effect at the rear wheels, priming the car perfectly to power out of corners.

The 2018 X4 comes with the latest version of the iDrive operating system, designed to offer even more flexible and ergonomic control of vehicle, navigation, communication and infotainment functions. Its Control Display now takes the form of a freestanding monitor with a 6.5-inch screen, while the high-resolution display that comes with the Professional Navigation System measures 10.25 inches in size and includes touchscreen functionality and a Semi Digital Cockpit (Standard on all M Sport, M Sport X and M Performance Models). The intuitive touch control is further facilitated by a tile-style menu layout with live content. The voice control system has also been improved and can now follow freely formulated instructions. There is also the option of using BMW gesture control, allowing certain functions to be operated with simple movements of the hand or fingers, which are registered by a 3D sensor in the centre console and translated into the relevant commands.

Another option is the new-generation BMW Head-Up Display, with a 70 per cent larger projection area.

The X4 is equipped as standard with Cruise Control with braking function as well as Collision and Pedestrian Warning with City Collision Mitigation. The optional semi-autonomous Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function is capable of braking the vehicle to a halt and setting off again automatically.

The Driving Assistant Plus safety package – unmatched by any rival – offers X4 drivers even more extensive assistance. Its features include the Steering and Lane Control assistant operational at speeds between 0 and 210 km/h (0 – 130 mph), Lane Keeping Assistant with active side collision protection, and Crossing Traffic Warning and Crossroads Warning systems.

Another new feature, Parking Assistant Plus, helps drivers select and manoeuvre into parallel and perpendicular parking spaces. The system comprises Top View, Panorama View and 3D View functions, which combine to depict a 360º image of the vehicle and the surrounding area on the Control Display. The Remote 3D View function additionally gives drivers the ability to call up a three-dimensional live image of their vehicle and its immediate vicinity on their smartphone.

Using a flexible Open Mobility Cloud platform, BMW Connected works alongside Apple iPhones and Watches, smartphones and smartwatches running the Android operating system, and the Amazon Alexa voice-controlled personal assistants.

BMW Connected enables route planning to be carried out on any device, based on calendar entries, while taking real-time traffic information into account and making allowance for a refuelling stop if necessary. It then transfers the data to the car’s navigation system when it is time to set off. A message notifying the user of the ideal departure time is sent to their smartphone or chosen device. In addition, the personal mobility assistant also lets customers call up vehicle data such as fuel level and range via their device or lock the vehicle via Remote Services, a feature which comes as standard.

Other features of BMW Connected+ offer an even greater degree of personalisation with new functions, including sharing of the current trip status by text message and live link (Share Live Trip Status), and seamless transfer of route guidance to a smartphone or smartwatch once the car has been parked, allowing full Door-to-Door navigation.

The standard built-in SIM card also allows drivers to use both Intelligent Emergency Call with automatic location and accident severity detection, and BMW Teleservices.

With the new BMW Teleservice Accident Assistance, the vehicle also detects low-speed collisions below the threshold for airbag deployment. The driver receives a message in the iDrive display offering to contact the BMW Accident Assistance service directly. A push of a button is all it takes to obtain professional support from the BMW Accident Assistance team, who put the customer in touch with a BMW Service Partner if necessary. Also available as options are a WiFi hotspot enabling rapid online connectivity for digital devices, along with wireless charging for compatible smartphones.

The standard ConnectedDrive services provide the basis for accessing features such as Real Time Traffic Information and On-Street Parking Information. They are also required for using the optional Concierge Services, Online Entertainment service and wireless Apple CarPlay.

BMW is the first carmaker to offer a secure server connection for exchanging and editing emails, calendar entries and contact details, thanks to the Microsoft Office 365 function that users can select from the ConnectedDrive Store. This means that addresses from appointment entries can be imported straight into the navigation system and telephone numbers can be dialled from an integrated mobile phone.