BMW X4 M

BMW X4 M – Overview

The BMW X4 is currently in its second generation. The first was launched in 2014, and it was successful as most SUV-type vehicles are today. In 2018, the second generation arrived, and the BMW X4 shares the same platform and features similar styling to the BMW X3.

This current BMW X4 is codenamed G02, and the BMW X4 M was introduced a year later in 2019. A model year update has been revealed as well, and like the BMW X4, the BMW X4 M has been given a styling upgrades for 2022. The BMW X4 M features the superb S58 3.0-litre inline-6 turbo powerplant that is used across the Bavarian’s M lineup, and like in all these halo cars, this engine is the best part of the car. 

In fact, the S58 was first used in the BMW X3 M and this BMW X4 M before the new BMW M3 and BMW M4 was launched. Like the BMW X3 that was developed alongside it, the BMW X4 uses BMW’s Cluster Architecture (CLAR) platform. CLAR features aluminium and high-strength steel for a lower weight and higher body rigidity. The former is mostly why the new BMW X4 is 50 kg lighter than the previous model.

The G02 BMW X4 has 2 M models : the BMW X4 M and BMW X4 M Competition. In the first generation, the halo modeel was a ‘soft’ M version, the BMW X4 M40i, which returns in this generation, although it is, obviously, no longer the pinnacle of the range.

BMW X4 M – Exterior

By now we are very familiar with BMW’s niche marketing, and it is obvious that the wider market that isn’t made of enthusiasts are highly accepting of the car. The BMW X4 is a vehicle with a sloping coupe-like roofline for ‘added elegance’, and thus the marque gives it the SAC moniker, which means Sports Activity Coupe.

For the 2022 mid-life facelift, the BMW X4 M has been given subtle nips and tucks all around. The front kidney grille is slightly larger and are a single unit now. Headlamps are 10mm flatter, and they are adaptive LED units as standard, with an option for BMW Laser Light. At the rear are full LED tail lights, with the signature quad exhausts accommodated in a gloss black lower apron; BMW specifically says they designed it in the shape of an anvil.

Malaysia only gets the BMW X4 M in Competition guise. The BMW X4 M competition rides on 21-inch wheels that is shod with 255/40 and 265/40 rubbers, front and rear respectively, with options for an M-forged wheels. The 892M Star Spoke design saves 2 kg per wheel, and another option is the 765M 5-spoke wheel. Both are finished in burnished Jet Black.

Exclusive to the BMW X4 M Competition model are the M Marina Bay Blue metallic and M Sao Paulo Yellow. Frozen Marina Bay Blue from from BMW’s individual range is also available, as are the M Carbon Black and M Brooklyn Grey.

BMW X4 M – Interior

At first launch, the BMW X4 M had an interior that was stylish and sophisticated. Like the lower non-M siblings, the BMW X4 M was a familiar blend of classy materials and friendliness, with an additional layer of performance paraphernalia.

In the facelift, the BMW X4 M has an interior that is more differentiated. Inside, there is a great resemblance to the BMW M3 and BMW M4, especially around the centre console. The latest M gear selector, with all the accompanying gubbins like the Drivelogic rocker switch and BMW Controller engine start button, are found here.

The M Sport front seats, with standard extended Merino leather upholstery, can be had with four colour combinations. There is an option from the BMW Individual specification bin for extended Merino leather in Tarfuto as well.
All air-conditioning vents wear a new galvanised finish, while all around the interior trim pieces feature a soft Rhombicle aluminium finish. 

There is an option for open-pore ash wood trim too for owners who prefer something more earthy. As for driver interfacing, the chunky leather multlfunction steering wheel now has contrasting stitching. The instrumentation behind the wheel features the M View configuration that can display M-specific content, as well as key information from specific applications. Android Auto is now integrated here in this facelift alongside Apple CarPlay. There is also an option for a heads-up display.

BMW X4 M – Features

This latter optional pack adds additional features like intersection warning, city braking, emergency lane assistance, and improved steering for the lane guidance assistance. There are visual add-ons for this pack too, which is a 3-dimensional overview on the instrument panel which shows which systems are active, and which ones are available. 

Another option offered is the Parking Assistance Plus, which adds completed lines as the car is reversing. On the driving side of things, the level of stability control intervention and torque distribution can be selected by the driver via the the buttons and knobs on the ‘control island’.

BMW X4 M – Powertrain

The BMW X4 M Competition also has the same factory, but power has been bumped up to 510 PS at 6,250 rpm, with 650 Nm of twist between 2,750 – 5,500 rpm. This brings the BMW X4 M Competition from standstill to the century in 4.0 seconds.

In all versions of the BMW X4 M, the S58 is mated to an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission, and power goes to all four wheels. BMW’s all wheel drive system is called M xDrive, with a bias towards the rear axle, and it features the Active M differential.

BMW X4 M – Driving Performance

In this respect, it is sportscar-like. During any kind of spirited driving, the BMW X4 M exhibits plenty of grip going into corners, and a lot of traction coming out of them. The heavy body is well controlled, but a smooth, almost perfect road is needed. The hard suspension does not take kindly to mid-corner bumps, highway bumps – any kind of bumps, really. 

BMW X4 M – Ride Comfort

The slope of the roof does not intrude on headroom more than is necessary, and even tall passengers will find this space more than adequate. It is not as voluminous as the BMW X3 M by any mean, and will not carry as much luggage, but the space for both humans and items are enough.

BMW X4 M – Fuel Economy

BMW X4 M – Conclusion