Test Drives

BMW X4: Sleek Crossovers In The Trend

Crossovers are here to stay, whether we like it or not. They are simply so popular among buyers that they might actually remove the need for some other body styles. The result is the fact that just BMW now has loads of CUV and SUV options, ranging from the X1, all the way up to the X7. This kind of versatility leaves room for at least two SUV coupes – the X6 and the X4. The X6 has been present for a while now and it has been an expensive luxury option, but the X4 offers similar styling for noticeably less money. Let’s see if it’s worth it.

 

Source: http://images.caricos.com/b/bmw/2015_bmw_x4_m_performance/images/1920x1080/2015_bmw_x4_m_performance_3_1920x1080.jpg
Source: http://images.caricos.com/b/bmw/2015_bmw_x4_m_performance/images/1920×1080/2015_bmw_x4_m_performance_3_1920x1080.jpg

At A Glance

Upside

  • Design
  • Maximized space usage
  • Powerful engines

Downside

  • Outdated interior

 

Source: http://image.trucktrend.com/f/83904312+w660+h495+cr1/2015-bmw-x4-m-performance-parts-exterior-rear-three-quarter.jpg
Source: http://image.trucktrend.com/f/83904312+w660+h495+cr1/2015-bmw-x4-m-performance-parts-exterior-rear-three-quarter.jpg

Design 5.0 / 5.0

The X6 is not the only styling role model for the X4. The second one is the M4. Accidentally, aside from the i8, these are the two most distinguishable BMW models. Thus, the X4 is just beautiful!

The front is, despite the overall size, pretty massive. The kidney grille holds the central position and it is flanked with adaptive LED headlamps, which come as standard equipment on any X4.

The side shows sculpted doors that add to aggression and beautiful 19” wheels of stunning design. On cars with bright colors the plastic cladding around the wheel arches makes the hole look rather big and thus the wheels look smaller.

However, by far the best thing about the X4 styling is its side outline. The X4 is simply one beautiful coupe, despite its high stance.

 

Source: http://cdn.pinthiscars.com/images/bmw-x4-interior--4.jpg
Source: http://cdn.pinthiscars.com/images/bmw-x4-interior–4.jpg

Interior 4.0 / 5.0

Four people can sit relatively comfortably in the car. The people in the front will have no complaints, but the ones in the rear will definitely know that this is basically a coupe. Legroom is relatively acceptable for a car of this class, but headroom is scarce for taller passengers and even more restricted than in the X3. Adding another passenger in the middle of the rear bench makes the X4 a cramped car.

The boot is also smaller than in the X3. However, it provides you with plenty of space in front, which balances out the cons. Also, access to the boot is one of the best in class.

It’s a BMW so attention to detail is great. The materials are also of high quality. However, the interior design is a bit outdated by now. We’ve seen it in several other BMW models and it is far less unique that the ones in competing models. On the other hand, this could be a good thing for the people who love the styling.

Source: http://image.trucktrend.com/f/83904234+w660+h495+cr1/2015-bmw-x4-m-performance-parts-exterior-rear-view.jpg
Source: http://image.trucktrend.com/f/83904234+w660+h495+cr1/2015-bmw-x4-m-performance-parts-exterior-rear-view.jpg

Driving 4.5 / 5.0

There are two options in Singapore – the xDrive35i and the xDrive28i. The latter has a 2.0 turbo engine with 241 hp and 350 Nm of torque, which allows it the sprint to 100 km/h of just 6.4 seconds. The more powerful one packs a 3.0 I6 engine and it gives 306 hp and 400 Nm of torque. Well that’s the one we tested and the sprint to 100 km/h takes just 5.5 seconds. Both engines are connected to an eight-speed automatic and it works like a charm, as does the xDrive AWD system. It keeps the car in track in any conditions and ensures the grip is at the highest level.

The BMW X4 has a bespoke steering and suspension. It is far sportier than the X3 and even when in the Comfort mode, the ride can be a bit stiff on bad roads. When the road is in great condition, the X4 provides a smooth and effortless ride.

The Verdict 4.5 / 5.0

The X4 is an amazing car. The styling is stunning, the engine is just perfect, the transmission complements the engine and the suspension makes the car really interesting to drive. The interior might be the worst part of the car due to two reasons. The first one is the familiar, so somewhat dated styling and the second one is the lack of space in the rear. However, despite its familiarity, the interior styling is good-looking. As for the space, if you want more of it, you shouldn’t be looking at the coupe in the first place.

 

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