Test Vehicle’s MSRP: $61,545 (Base Model: $51,445)
Seating Capacity: 5
Standard Features: 19-inch wheels; all-wheel drive; an 8-speed automatic transmission; an automatic start-stop gas saving feature; driving modes: economy, pro, comfort, sport and sport plus; power folding heated mirrors; power front seat with a 2-position driver’s memory; a navigation system; an oversized sunroof; a manually operated tilt/telescopic steering wheel; a power tailgate; dark oak wood trim; split folding rear seats; and an automatic climate control system
Optional Features On Test Vehicle: red leather; Convenience Package: comfort access keyless entry, lumbar support and a SiriusXM 1-year subscription Driver Assistance Package: blind spot and lane departure warning; Driver Assistance Plus; Parking Assistance Plus: parking assistant plus, active park distance control, a rear view camera and surround view camera; Premium Package: a heated steering wheel, head up display, and gesture control; Dynamic Damper Control; 20-inch tires; and wireless charging
Other Trim Levels:
M40i AWD
Standard Audio On Test Vehicle: a 205-watt, 12-speaker AM/FM/HD/CD with satellite radio
Bluetooth Connectivity: Yes
Apple Connectivity: Yes
Powertrain Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles
Standard Engine/Horsepower: 2.0-liter twin-turbo, 4-cylinder/248-hp
Recommended Fuel: Premium
Standard Fuel Mileage: 18-city/25-hwy
Why:
The beefed-up looking baby
X6 makes this year’s vehicle a standout in the crossover/SUV segment. This is due
to the stretched proportions, wider stance and standard 19-inch wheels. Both 20-inch and 21-inch wheels are available on
the X4.
BMW’s midsize
German utility vehicle, which broke the mode for car designs a few years ago,
has been overhauled to include such features as a three-zone ventilation
system, a larger heads up display system, a 10-inch touchscreen navigation
screen, a panoramic moonroof and redesigned front seats.
Like
BMW customers have come to expect, the all-new X4, which is only available in
an all-wheel drive configuration, is a driver oriented vehicle despite being classified as a
crossover.
The vehicle is available with two powertrains. For those seeking a more performance oriented X4, an all-new M40i has joined the line up. The M40i distinguishes itself from the X4 we reviewed, adding a gutsy 355-horsepower engine to complement the vehicle’s sporty styling. We can only imagine the thrill that would have been added to our driving experience had we got our hands on the M40i, which also adds throatier sound.
The vehicle is available with two powertrains. For those seeking a more performance oriented X4, an all-new M40i has joined the line up. The M40i distinguishes itself from the X4 we reviewed, adding a gutsy 355-horsepower engine to complement the vehicle’s sporty styling. We can only imagine the thrill that would have been added to our driving experience had we got our hands on the M40i, which also adds throatier sound.
And, as one would expect, this hatchback-like BMW is available with the latest safety driving aids, too. Those features
consist of everything from a radar-activated stop-and-go cruise control system
to a lane keep assist system to a traffic jam assistant system.
But:
The stylish curved rear window can easily impair the vision of the driver, when
backing up or changing lanes. Also the
hatchback-like, curved roofline also limits the rear headroom for tall adults.
Moreover,
the seating of the X4 mimics that of many other BMW crossovers we’ve reviewed.
Despite the array of seat adjustments, with the 10-way power driver’s seat and
front seat leg extender, the seating is just too firm for our taste.
Lastly,
as more automakers are experimenting, with interior lighting, we noted that the strip of lighting embedded in the doors seemed mismatched and out of
place with the color theme of the interior. In our opinion, BMW needs to take a page from its
German competitor, Mercedes-Benz, in terms of interior lighting. Mercedes-Benz
interior lighting seems to be more cohesive, giving one the feel and look, as
if they’re a part of a video
game.
Verdict:
For buyers seeking
a stylish utility vehicle, with German engineering and an athletic physique,
the all-new X4 should be on one’s shopping list. The design of the almost
coupe-like styling stands out from the crowd of today’s ‘me-too’ crossover designs.
The
second generation X4 provides many of the luxury amenities, driver safety aids
and sporty driving characteristics that will draw consumers to this utility vehicle. There are competitors with a lower pricing point, as a result of the option of a front wheel drive configuration. However, for those seeking performance and an engaging driving experience, they should steer toward an all-wheel drive configuration. In fact, a few of the competitors in this niche segment offer more horsepower in some of their pricier trims.
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