Never too soon: BMW’s X4 gets a redesign after just four years on the market
The sporty SUV sees improvements in the same manner as its function-oriented X3 sibling. By Richard Leu
Oh, the time has already arrived for the X4’s renewal?
True, the X4 has been on the market for only four years, and models usually last 6-7 years in one generation before being renewed.
However, BMW has decided to forward the second-generation X4 quite prematurely, probably due to the state of the competition.
Seen here in official pictures before making its world debut in Geneva next month, the all-new X4 has a bolder exterior appearance with the same sloping roof line of its predecessor. Note the horizontal rear lights that are now slimmer.
Although the main rival is the Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe, the X4 will have the additional task of stealing some attention from punters of the Porsche Macan and Range Rover Evoque.
What kind of improvements does it get?
As the X4 is more like a sporty derivative of the function-oriented X3, the improvements mirror those of the donor vehicle.
In common with today’s X3 (which has just been launched in Thailand in third-gen form), the X4 gets a bigger body for more passenger and cargo room. The wheelbase, in particular, has grown by 52mm.
The interior of the X4 is shared with the X3 and includes a redesigned fascia with a free-standing infotainment screen.
Likewise, the materials are claimed to be higher in quality than before.
After launching in the X2 for the first time, BMW’s M Sport X trim now comes to the X4 and includes grey cladding around the vehicle and coloured stitching for the interior.
In spite of the enlarged package, the X4 is 50kg lighter than the outgoing model because of the use of more lightweight materials.
Any novel engines being introduced?
Included are all the usual suspects, ranging from the four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, up to a 360hp performance-oriented six-potter for the so-called M40i. New to the line-up is the diesel-powered M40d developing 326hp.
Although no announcement has been made, the X4 is expected to spawn a hotter M model for the first time. With about 450hp, the X4 M would contend directly with the GLC63 and Macan Turbo Performance Package.
But the core-selling model for the X4, particularly in the Thai market, is expected to be the 20d armed with a 190hp 2.0-litre diesel-turbo, eight-speed automatic and xDrive four-wheel drive. There’s also a 184hp 2.0-litre petrol-turbo.
The first-gen X4 was priced at 3,629,000 baht in Thailand for the 20i and an extra 300,000 for the 20d, both in M Sport grade. Expect the new one to cost similarly when sales start just after mid-year, as today’s GLC250d Coupe goes for 3,999,000 baht.