Overview

What's New for 2021

BMW builds the X4 in two trims: 30i and M40i.

The 30i starts around $52,000. Exterior highlights include 19-inch wheels, run-flat tires, curve-adaptive LED headlights, rain-sensing wipers, power-folding mirrors, and a panoramic sunroof, a power liftgate. There are driver safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, front and rear parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Inside the cabin, occupants enjoy premium leatherette upholstery, one-touch automatic windows, 14-way power front seats, driver's seat memory, a split-folding rear seat, keyless entry and ignition, tri-zone climate control, wood trim, a leather steering wheel, 12 speakers, navigation, Bluetooth, a 10.3-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and a WiFi hotspot.

The M40i, which retails for about $62,000, is for drivers wanting sharper driving dynamics, with a larger engine, sport-tuned suspension, adaptive dampers, gloss-black exterior accents, a hands-free liftgate, front-seat power lumbar, and metal trim.

There is a separate model based on the X4 called the X4 M, which costs about $74,000 and has even more driving performance.

BMW built its reputation building sports sedans with excellent handling. Today, the German automaker makes SUVs as well, all of which are amongst the most exciting to drive in their respective size classes. The X4 has two high-revving, turbocharged engine choices and a front-strut/rear-multi-link suspension similar to the one in the superb BMW 3 Series sedan.

The 30i has a 248-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine that makes 258 pound-feet of torque, and it's paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel-drive. Drivers can shift gears manually using paddle shifters. The EPA estimates fuel economy of 25 mpg combined. The engine provides smooth power delivery, with quick acceleration and good throttle response.

The M40i has a 382-horsepower turbocharged six-cylinder that generates 365 pound-feet of torque, and it gets an estimated 23 mpg overall. The engine transforms the X4's driving experience, with significantly more oomph for various driving situations.

The X4 uses premium fuel and has a 17.2-gallon fuel tank.

Inside, the BMW X4 feels like a sports sedan, which is good news for drivers. The front seats have deep bolsters and high-quality leatherette trim. Both front seats have 14 ways of power adjustment, and the driver's seat comes with memory settings for two users. The high ground clearance means ride height is better than that of a car, while a thick steering wheel and low dashboard provide a sporty environment. The 30i has relaxed interior styling, with wood trim and a neutral color scheme, while the M40i employs more dark colors, contrast-stitching, and metal accents to accentuate its performance potential.

The X4 has similar front-seat space to the X3, and although the rear head- and legroom lose about an inch of space due to the more dramatic roof design, it's still comfortable. The X4's hatchback liftgate is large, but standard cargo space is just 18.5 cubic feet. That's typical for a fastback four-door 'coupe' SUV, but it's a lot less than the X3's 28.7 cubic feet. The rear seat can fold down to make 50.5-cubic-feet of space.

Apple CarPlay is standard, though Android Auto is not, so non-iPhone users don't have the same breadth of connectivity options. The infotainment system is operated not by touch but rather by a console-mounted wheel, and it's easy to use.