BMW’s X line-up built for activity
BMW seems averse to the word utility. So it describes its mainstream X line-up as Sport Activity Vehicles rather than SUVs and has devised another designation for the even-number coupe-theme X models. So the X2, X4 and X6 fall under the Sport Activity Coupe moniker.
I’m not really sure about the BMW aversion to referring to the likes of the X3 and X5 as SUVs but I think the Sport Activity Coupe name neatly suits the faster roofline and only mildly compromised practicality of cars like the X4.
The X4 is basically a fastback bodystyle derivative of the X3 retaining the raised stance, powertrain choices and xDrive allwheel-drive capability while gaining a coupe-like silhouette. Each X4 variant carries a roughly
$4000 price premium over equivalent X3 models and provides one more flavour in the ever-widening menu of premium SUV/crossover choices.
In the case of the X4 M40i there is also a very clear focus on performance — the other fastexpanding arena of SUV interest. Powering the M40i is the in-line sixcylinder TwinPower turbocharged 3.0-litre petrol engine that BMW offers in a number of performance applications with 265kW output at 5500rpm and generous mid-range muscle reflected in 500Nm of torque available from 1200rpm.
It six fires into life with a snarl before settling into a throaty idle and it provides that distinctive an enthusiastic straight-six soundtrack under acceleration. There’s no doubting the X4 M40i is quick and BMW’s 0-100km/h claim of 4.8secs is enacted in the real world with rapid overtaking response and a combination of turbo muscle and all-wheel-drive THERE’S NO DOUBTING THE X4 M40I IS QUICK AND BMW’S 0-100KM/H CLAIM OF 4.8SECS IS ENACTED IN THE REAL WORLD WITH RAPID OVERTAKING RESPONSE AND A COMBINATION OF TURBO MUSCLE AND ALL-WHEELDRIVE TRACTION THAT PROVIDES STRONG ACCELERATION OUT OF SLOW CORNERS. traction that provides strong acceleration out of slow corners.
With an eight-speed automatic transmission — including paddleshift — the BMW X4 M40i can also be a relaxed highway performer and the big-torque six-cylinder settles at only 1600rpm when its cruising at 100km/h in top gear. Close ratio downshifts bring urgency at 2000rpm in seventh and 2400rpm in sixth.
Although it weighs 1920kg, it’s possible to coax a respectable fuel consumption number from the powerful petrol wagon. BMW claims combined cycle consumption of 9.2L/100km and my road test averaged 10.1L/100km.
Other parts of the performance equation include a powerful M Sport brake package well suited to the pace and weight of the M40i version and there are 21-inch double spoke M light alloy wheels with mixed size tyres. The Pirelli P-Zeros put a big footprint on the
road with 245/40 R21 tyres on the front and 275/35 R21 sizing at the rear.
The wide tyres provide assured cornering grip and the Adaptive M suspension controls bodyroll very effectively for a taller vehicle and provides a reasonably comfortable ride at city speeds.
Damping, steering assistance, engine and transmission response can be adjusted individually along with the Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Eco Plus drive modes.
The obvious compromise to be made with the X4 involves the faster roofline. It turns out to be a minor trade-off in both rear seat headroom and a 25-litre reduction in cargo space while the rear seats are comfortably shaped.
The M40i model sits at the pinnacle of the X4 line-up above four-cylinder diesel xDrive20d and four-cylinder petrol xDrive30i models. Pricing for the X4 M40i starts at $126,500 (a $4350 premium over the X3 M40i) and the performance appeal is accompanied by a luxurious specification and full safety and driver assist roster.
Standard features that have a direct benefit to the performance driving appeal are the power adjustable M Sport front seats including adjustable side bolsters and lumbar support while the night time driving appeal of the X4 M40i is based on its excellent Adaptive LED headlights and responsive high beam control.
The sports theme is underlined by the M Sport leather steering wheel, textured aluminium trim inserts, Sensatec suede finish on the instrument panel, alloy pedals and an anthracite roofliner.
As the flagship X4 the M40i grade also picks up a 600-watt Harmon Kardon premium audio system and the latest generation Drive control system supported by voice control, touchscreen capability and gesture control.
Features shared with the xDrive30i model include the latest BMW Head-Up display, the Comfort Access keyless entry and engine start system and multi-view camera system with top-down 360-degree view which makes the X4 easy to park in tight spaces.
All X4 models have three-zone climate control, rain sensor wipers, a powered tailgate, 40/20/40 split fold rear seat and 10.25-inch touch display with Professional Navigation.
Options on the test vehicle bumped the price to $131,890.