The most intriguing spinoff of BMW's compact 3 Series sedan, the X4 combines the ride height of a crossover with a fastback roofline reminiscent of a coupe. BMW refers to it as a sport activity vehicle, but we like to think of it as a high-style hatchback with a dose of ruggedness.
What's New for 2017
The new twin-turbo M40i replaces the 35i as the line's top model. A wireless charging station with built-in Wifi hotspot joins the option list.
Choosing Your BMW X4
The five-passenger X4 offers up to 49.4 cubic feet of cargo space, about the same as leading compact hatchbacks. Unlike those cars, the X4 comes with standard all-wheel drive and a choice of powerful turbocharged engine. The base 2-liter four-cylinder turbo produces 240 horsepower, while the newly available twin-turbo 3-liter six-cylinder makes 355 horsepower. Both engines use an eight-speed automatic transmission, which receives sport tuning and launch control when paired with the six-cylinder.
The lineup is divided in four- and six-cylinder models:
Leather seating is part of the Premium Package, which also includes satellite radio and keyless access and ignition. The Cold Weather Package adds heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and retractable headlamp washers.
The Technology Package includes a head-up display, integrated smartphone apps, and a navigation system (also available separately). You get front parking sensors and a rearview camera with the Driver Assistance Package, while Driver Assistance Plus tacks on a surround-view camera system, active collision mitigation, blind spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. Adaptive cruise control can be added to the package at additional cost.
Rounding out your choices are adaptive full LED headlamps and active suspension dampers for increased stability around curves.
All of the option packages are worthwhile, but indulging in goodies kicks the X4 into a whole different price class. The Premium Package, with its leather interior, is the most essential in our view.