Following the X6, the Coupe-like SUV "X4" Arrives | BMW

BMW X4 | BMW X4

The Coupe-Like SUV "X4" Arrives, Following the X6

Just as they announced the minor change model of the "X3",BMWhas unveiled the "X4," which adopts a coupe-like exterior design. As the name suggests, the X series signifies an SUV, and the even-numbered model name indicates it is the "younger sibling" to the "X6," which fuses SUV and coupe characteristics. Let's take a closer look at the details of this stylish SUV, focusing on the differences from its base, the "X3."

Text by SAKURAI Kenichi

Lower Seating Position Than the X3

Minor Change to the X3Following the "X3's" minor change, BMW's new SUV, the "X4," is a mid-sized SUV that follows in the lineage of the "X6",3 Series", belonging to the same D-segment as models like the. It is roughly the same size as the X3, which serves as its base. However, as its appearance suggests, the X4 has a lower ride height and a coupe-like form with a smooth descent from the roofline to the rear of the tailgate. This is the X4's greatest feature and its greatest appeal.

Looking at the side profile, the character line that runs from the front fender to the rear door handle, and the two character lines designed to bulge over the rear fender, are striking. The adoption of these two character lines is, in fact, a first for BMW.

Meanwhile, the front face, with its wider headlights connected to the kidney grille, emphasizes its relationship with the X3. However, it is characterized by the incorporation of a sporty image, such as by enlarging the intake openings.

Like the X3, LED headlights can be optionally equipped, and door mirrors with integrated LED turn signals are also used. The taillights are clearly differentiated from the X3. While retaining the same L-shape as a basic design, they adopt a sleek, horizontal design.

The body size is 14mm longer and 36mm lower than the X3 for the European model. The dimensions are 4,671mm in length, 1,881mm in width, and 1,624mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,810mm, the same as the X3.

With a 36mm reduction in ride height, the driver's seating position is also 20mm lower. The rear seats can accommodate three passengers, so despite its coupe-like design, the X4 remains a five-seater. The standard 40:20:40 split-folding rear seat backrests allow for versatile cargo space arrangements.

The interior design, including the dashboard and center console, is identical to the X3. It features BMW's signature driver-oriented design with a center console angled towards the driver, conveying sportiness and a high-quality feel. Safety features, such as the full-color head-up display, glare-reducing high-beam assistant, and driving assistant plus, are also inherited from the X3.

BMW X4 | BMW X4

The Coupe-Like SUV "X4" Arrives, Following the X6 (Part 2)

A Diverse Range of Power Units Offered

The powertrain lineup includes three gasoline and three diesel engines. All gasoline engines areBMW'srenowned twin-turbo units. The "X4 xDrive20i" is equipped with a 2.0-liter inline-4 engine producing a maximum output of 135kW (184ps), and the "X4 xDrive28i" features a 2.0-liter inline-4 with a maximum output of 180kW (245ps). The "X4 xDrive35i" is powered by a 3.0-liter inline-6 engine delivering a maximum output of 225kW (306ps).

The diesel engines include a 2.0-liter engine for the "X4 xDrive20d" with a maximum output of 140kW (190ps), a 3.0-liter engine for the "X4 xDrive30d" with a maximum output of 190kW (258ps), and a 3.0-liter engine for the "X4 xDrive35d" with a maximum output of 230kW (313ps). These are also all equipped with variable geometry turbochargers, making them twin-turbo units.

Except for the "X4 xDrive20d," which offers a 6-speed manual transmission, all models are paired with BMW's 8-speed automatic transmission, called Steptronic. The "X4 xDrive20d" achieves favorable fuel economy figures of 18.5-19.2 km/liter in combined mode, with CO2 emissions (combined) of 141-138g/km.

While the hardware, such as the powertrain and 4WD system, as well as comfort and safety features, are comparable to the X3, the X4's distinct appearance, unlike the overtly SUV-like X3, is likely to strongly appeal to urban users who find the X6 a bit too large but still desire an SUV experience.

BMW's clear strategy of segmenting its model lineup, assigning odd numbers to basic designs and even numbers to coupe-like or stylish designs, represents a clever approach that is a step ahead of other premium manufacturers.