All the reasons the new BMW X4 will steal your heart

How it drives

First, we drove the X4 xDrive20i (the 2L version) – It offers a smooth, quick-response on acceleration drive, and the car does not feel bulky or too big. It really can’t compare to the X4 M40i though.

The 4L M Performance version is pure joy to drive (and it’s pretty easy on the eyes too!) – From the moment I put my foot on the accelerator of this beast, I was completely besotted with it. It is now on my list of dream cars to own one day.

The drive is unbelievably smooth and so much fun – with specs like a maximum output of 265 kW (squeal), chassis technology that has been systematically refined and honed for the specific requirements of the Sports Activity Coupe and a centre of gravity lower than that of the BMW X3, 19 or 20-inch light-alloy wheels and specially designed M Sport brakes and an M Sport differential, which generates a precise locking effect at the rear wheels to help the car power out of corners with refreshing dynamic flair – I’m sure you can understand why I caught feelings.

Cosmetics and aesthetics

This second generation X4 offers enhanced driving dynamics as well as a new athletic exterior design compared to the previous version. On the outside the car’s sporting instincts are accentuated, and inside you’ll find a customisable ambience, state-of-the-art driver assistance systems and connectivity technologies.

You’ll definitely notice this guy on the road with its muscular presence. Clean lines and modern accents highlight the updated interpretation of the X4 aesthetic.

The exterior length has been increased by 81mm to 4,752mm, 54mm have been added to the wheelbase (now 2,864mm) and an extra 37mm of width (1,918mm). Twin LED headlights with dynamic contours as well as horizontal fog lamps form a new interpretation of the familiar six-eyed face championed by BMW X models.

The interior of the X4 offers a driver-focused layout of the cockpit, low instrument panel and a slightly raised seating position. Redesigned sports seats with contoured side bolsters and knee pads on the sides of the centre console add to the sense of sportiness. There are three full-size seats in the rear offering more legroom than before.

Load space can be expanded from 525 to a maximum of 1,430 litres by folding down the sections of the rear backrest, with its standard 40:20:40 split. And the optional cargo function allows the backrest angle to be individually adjusted, too.

Optional extras include the new Vernasca leather upholstery and an instrument panel in Sensatec trim, three-zone automatic climate control, active seat ventilation, ambient lighting, as well as the Ambient Air package, the BMW Display Key and a panoramic glass roof.

Engine specs and options

The new X4 comes in the variants of two petrol engines and one diesel engine, complete with a duo of BMW M Performance models.

The X4 M40i boasts a six-cylinder in-line petrol engine, with fuel consumption of 9.2 – 9.0 l/100 km; combined CO₂ emissions at 210 g/km, and a maximum output of 265 kW.

The M40d is powered by a 240 kW straight-six diesel unit, with fuel consumption of 6.6 – 6.4 l/100 km and combined CO₂ emissions at 173 – 170 g/km.

The X4 xDrive20d holds a four-cylinder diesel engine, generating 140 kW, with a fuel consumption of 5.6 – 5.4 l/100 km, and combined CO₂ emissions at 148 g/km.

The X4 xDrive20i has a fuel consumption of 7.8 l/100 km, with combined CO₂ emissions at 178 g/km, and an output of 135 kW.

All model variants have an eight-speed Steptronic transmission with shift paddles on the steering wheel and BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive as standard.

Safety features

Safety features of the X4 come in the form of the Driving Assist Plus safety package, which includes the new-generation Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function, the Steering and lane control assist, and the Lane Keep Assist with active side collision protection.

There is also a new Parking Assist Plus feature comprising the Top View, Panorama View and 3D View functions. The Remote 3D View function gives drivers the ability to call up a three-dimensional live image of their vehicle and its immediate vicinity on their smartphone. Also available as an option is the telephony with wireless charging for compatible smartphones.

Costs

X4 xDrive20i

• Standard model: R843,000
• M Sport model: R887,900
• M Sport X model: R887,900

X4 M40i

• Standard model: R1,132,800

X4 xDrive20d

• Standard model: R843,000
• M Sport model: R887,900
• M Sport X model: R887,900

Why I liked it

It’s the perfect hybrid of SUV and sports coupe. It drives like a dream and feels perfectly weighted and the control is excellent. It’s a car you feel safe in while being powerful enough to give you that element of adrenalin. It’s a car for those looking for a bigger bulkier and more spacious car, but who aren’t quite ready to settle for a mom or dad SUV – on the other hand, there’s no reason why mom and dad couldn’t drive this beaut. It’s just versatile like that – appealing to folks of all ages. Clearly, it’s gained my vote!