Test Drive the BMW X4 Series | BMW

BMW X4 | BMW X4

A New Generation of Sporty SUVs That Deliver a Thrilling Driving Experience

Test Drive the BMW X4 Series

Introducing the BMW X4, a new SUV with a coupe-like exterior design and sportier performance. Just three months after its announcement in March, the opportunity to get behind the wheel has arrived. The stage for this test drive is Bilbao, a city in northern Spain near the French border. We bring you an impression from Fumio Ogawa.

Text by OGAWA Fumio

A Relationship Akin to the 3 and 4 Series

The keyword for this trend is not Sports Utility, but Sports Activity. That is BMW's assertion. The "X4"X4", which follows the X6, combines style and performance, representing a new generation ofSUV.

The X4 is a model that belongs to the lineage of the "X6" and shares its platform with the "X3". However, its seating position is slightly lower, and BMW highlights its "driving sensation akin to a coupe" as a selling point.

"Although the "3 Series GT" has already been introduced to the market (launched in early summer 2013 in Japan), that model emphasizes functionality with its long wheelbase and spacious interior. The X4 is a product for those who prefer a more urban lifestyle," says Friedrich Mieslinger, who was in charge of development.Launched in Japan in early summer 2013

In terms of figures, the wheelbase is 2,801mm, with a body measuring 4,671mm in length, 1,881mm in width, and 1,624mm in height (European announcement values). Compared to the X3, it is 14mm longer and 36mm lower. It might be said to have a relationship similar to that between the sedan "3 Series" and its coupe derivative, the "4 Series". Furthermore, various elements have been incorporated to create a sporty impression.

The silhouette is particularly noteworthy. The roof length is short, with the peak height positioned around the driver's head in the front seats. From there, it slopes dramatically towards the rear. This effectively creates a coupe-like image of a compact cabin, emphasizing the driver and the joy of driving.

The model driven in Spain was the X4 xDrive 35i, equipped with a 3-liter, 6-cylinder engine. It boasts a maximum output of 306ps at 5,800-6,400rpm and a maximum torque of 400Nm at 1,200-5,000rpm. Driving on various roads, from winding routes to highways, left a strong impression of exhilarating acceleration and reliable handling.

BMW X4 | BMW X4

A New Generation of Sporty SUVs That Deliver a Thrilling Driving Experience

Test Drive the BMW X4 Series (2)

A Unique Character Distinct from SUVs and Sedans

BMW defines the market for the X4 as the "premium mid-segment." The company emphasizes that this premium positioning is supported by a rich lineup of engines, a four-wheel-drive system, and comprehensive standard equipment.

While BMW Group Japan states that "specifications for the Japanese market are undecided," the gasoline engine options include the 3-liter 6-cylinder, two versions of a 2-liter engine (184ps and 245ps), and three types of diesel engines. The "xDrive" four-wheel-drive system, featuring a center differential with electronically controlled clutch, will be available on all models.

Another characteristic that underscores its premium status is the interior. The test vehicle, possibly due to the M Sport package, featured sports seats upholstered in white leather with red stitching. Beyond their excellent support and comfort, the visually distinctive appearance creates a cabin that makes you forget you are in an SUV.

Settling into the driver's seat, which is 20mm lower than the X3's, and gripping the thick-rimmed steering wheel, one can experience a unique character distinct from both SUVs and sedans. Driving through the streets of Bilbao, Spain, it felt like this level of ride height and overall ambiance is just right for an on-road SUV.

Furthermore,BMW ConnectedDriveis a user-friendly feature. It covers safety aspects, such as transmitting an SOS in emergencies, as well as comfort features like navigation controlled through voice interaction with a call center, though these are optional.

BMW X4 | BMW X4

A New Generation of Sporty SUVs That Deliver a Thrilling Driving Experience

Test Drive the BMW X4 Series (3)

High Stability and Comfortable Ride on Any Road

The X4 complements the scenery of Bilbao, a city renowned for its architecture. Its balanced style, blending elegance and sportiness without standing out awkwardly on European roads where SUVs are less common, is likely the reason. While driving, it was common to notice occupants of other cars looking at the X4 with interest.

Bilbao, once a thriving industrial city known for steel and shipbuilding, now has a population of about 350,000, similar to Asahikawa City in Japan, which ranks around 50th. Currently, it focuses on the tertiary sector, featuring works by world-renowned architects. The city center is home to offices, surrounded by residential areas with many high-rise apartments. Beyond that lie mountains and the coast. Roads, well-maintained and free of surface damage, wind through this complex terrain.

Due to the frequent rain, lush vegetation covers the land, creating intricate and beautiful patterns of various greens. In the mountainous areas, there are courses combining straights and curves, perfect for sporty driving. The X4 xDrive 35i, initially perceived as urban, reveals another facet of its charm in such settings.

On the highway, the drive is remarkably stable. Its straight-line stability is high, throttle response is sharp, the ride is comfortable, and the suspension is firmly tuned. Despite the steeply sloping rear, the hatch opening is not small, yet noise intrusion is well suppressed. The well-cushioned seats absorb vibrations, and occupant support is excellent.

The comfortable impression remains unchanged on winding roads. Rather than sharpness, a strong sense of stability prevails, instilling confidence even on unfamiliar routes. On uphill sections, selecting the Sport mode via the in-car switch allows for a sportier drive. This is achieved by maintaining higher engine revs with ample torque and quickening the car's response when turning the steering wheel, enabling it to corner with less input.

"While the basic design is the same as the X3, we have increased body rigidity by 7 percent and modified the damping characteristics to achieve a sportier feel," confirms Mieslinger, as mentioned earlier.

BMW X4 | BMW X4

A New Generation of Sporty SUVs That Deliver a Thrilling Driving Experience

Test Drive the BMW X4 Series (4)

Another Character Line Emphasizing the Rear Wheels

"The X6 combines the robustness of an SUV with the elegance of a coupe. Its overall image is defined by proportions with a compact cabin and large wheels at the four corners. Furthermore, styling elements such as the six-light greenhouse (cabin with rear quarter windows) and the squared-off wheel arches characterize the SAV concept that follows the X6."

Jacek Fröhlich of BMW Design explained at the Bilbao hotel where the test drive was held.

BMW is increasingly expanding its lineup with highly personal models like the "2 Series" and "4 Series," aiming to cultivate new markets for those seeking a youthful feel. The era when SUVs capable of off-road driving were sufficient for an active image has passed; the X4 responds to a market where lightness and agility are prioritized.

From the large, metallic kidney grille to the headlamps that shine with complex reflections, the character lines along the body that suggest a flowing sense of speed towards the rear, and the addition of another character line to emphasize the presence of the rear wheels – a new approach for this model – the X4 strongly projects its unique character.

Scheduled for introduction in Japan within 2014 (according to BMW Group Japan PR), this model is likely to be popular in Japan as well.