Luxury crossover doesn’t skimp on sportiness
Quiet and quick, and thoughtfully appointed, BMW’s 2015 X4 a stylish alternative to an SUV
One look at a BMW catalogue will reveal that the German automaker has been busy expanding its lineup to ensure that the iconic luxury brand is able to offer a broad enough selection of vehicles to keep their loyal customers in the family.
To that end, BMW recently launched the U. S.- built X4, which represents the latest addition to the company’s Sports Activity Coupe category of luxury crossover utility vehicles. These vehicles have been designed to offer the consumer a more stylish alternative to the traditional Sport Utility Vehicle ( SUV), and have been engineered to deliver a more dynamic driving experience.
There are two trim levels available, but both utilize the same ultraefficient eightspeed automatic transmission and BMW’s proven xDrive allwheeldrive system.
The X4 xDrive 28i is fitted with a 2.0- litre turbocharged in- line four- cylinder engine that produces 241 horsepower and 258 foot- pounds of torque. The X4 xDrive 35i derives its motivation from a 3.0- litre turbocharged in- line six- cylinder producing 300 horsepower and 300 foot- pounds of torque.
Our tester featured the very smooth and powerful six- cylinder engine, and although the X4 tips the scales at a rather hefty 1,873 kilograms, acceleration remained strong and linear. This was especially true when the driver uses the Driving Experience Control to activate one of the two dedicated sport modes.
BMW claims that the X4 xDrive 35i is capable of launching from a standstill to 100 kilometres per hour in 5.5 seconds. I have no reason to doubt this claim, as the X4 has plenty of hustle.
Oversized disc brakes supported by the latest in ABS braking technologies are on board to help rein in this four- wheeled dynamo. During my evaluation these big binders were tested by a sudden downpour, an errant deer, and crazy Vancouver pedestrians and commuters. The X4’ s braking system was quick to react and very consistent when called into action.
The X4’ s styling is similar to that of the groundbreaking X6 albeit in a smaller scale, as the X4 is based on the X3’ s platform. The X4 however, is slightly longer ( 14 mm) and lower ( 54 mm) than the X3, but width, wheelbase and track are the same for both vehicles. These enhancements, while seemingly minor, help improve the X4’ s roadholding and the overall stability of the vehicle.
The large, 20- inch wheels, wide performance tires, and sporty suspension give the X4 xDrive 35i a stable ride that inspires confidence in both the driver and passengers.
The design of models like the X4 have been applauded by many for taking the brand in a new direction, but it also puts frowns on the faces of many loyal BMW customers who see these models as a distraction.
I like the look of both the X4 and X6, as they stand out from the many cookie- cutter designs that inhabit the stalls of virtually every garage or parking lot.
If you approach the car from the front it is immediately recognizable as a BMW due to the presence of the twin kidney grill and halo effect head lamps.
The M Sport Line is included as standard equipment on the xDrive 35i and includes the M Aerodynamics package with front and rear bumpers in the body colour and the diffuser insert in Dark Shadow metallic. The sill covers, wheel arch and door trim are all painted to match the colour of the body.
The sculpted, aerodynamic front fascia features oversized air intakes to feed air to the engine and cool the brakes. Their presence also adds a hint of aggression to sell the sport element BMW’s designers were after.
The lower stance of the X4 brings the look closer to that of the brand’s GT models than the X3 or X5, until you see the vehicle’s side profile.
The aerodynamic body of the X4 features a high beltline, gradually sloping roof, and rounded corners. There is a styling character line running alongside the body, that splits at the rear door handle to emphasize the shape and curvature of the X4’ s rear.
The X4’ s passenger cabin is both spacious and comfortable. There is room for five adults, and surprisingly, given the slope of the roof, there is enough headroom for six- footers in the back.
The leather- clad seats offered the perfect mix of support and comfort, especially up front, where twin bucket units with healthy side bolsters did their best to keep me and my passenger in place during even the most aggressive driving manoeuvres.
Fit and finish is impressive, and there are plenty of places to stow small items such as phones, gloves and maps. The rear seats fold down ( 40/ 20/ 40 split) to create an almost perfectly flat cargo area.
Visibility is excellent from the driver’s position, especially with the optional Premium Package which backs up the exceptional side mirrors with front and rear proximity sensors and a rearview camera system.
The three- spoke steeringwheel features paddle- shift levers to permit manual gear selection. BMW’s cockpit designs always place all gauges and switchgear within easy reach of both hand and eye.
The X4 exudes a sportiness that is missing from many utility vehicle designs. I suspect that it will appeal to younger buyers and possibly, empty nesters.