BMW X4
Generations Timeline, Specs and Pictures
BMW introduced a facelifted version for the X4 just three years after introducing the second-generation’s model.
After successfully revolutionizing the automotive industry with the SAV-Coupe X6, BMW introduced a smaller brother named X4, which appeared in 2014. In 2018, the carmaker introduced a second-generation for it and then refreshed it in 2021. Thus, it matched the exact timetable with the other compact-sized SAV (Sport Activity Vehicle), the X3. Both vehicles shared the same CLAR (Cluster Architecture) platform with their bigger brother X5 and other sedans.
BMW introduced a new front bumper design with a single section frame kidney-grille adorned by a mesh design. Its adaptive Matrix LED headlights were standard and flattered by 10 mm (0.4”) than on the non-facelifted version. On the sides, all versions came fitted as standard with specific side-sills, finished in light gray. At the back, the X4 featured LED taillights with a 3D design and horizontal lines to emphasize the car’s width. The apron sported wide free-form tailpipe trims.
Inside, BMW installed a 10.25” wide format infotainment screen above the center stack, with an option for a 12.3” display, in the same free-floating look. All versions featured a three-zone automatic climate control for more comfort on the rear seats. The redesigned center console featured a new shape for the gear-selector and the iDrive’s rotary knob.
Under the hood, the most significant upgrade was the electrification, which brought a new 48-volt system. All engines showed better fuel efficiency. Apart from vehicles fitted with internal combustion engines only, the carmaker also installed a plug-in hybrid drivetrain in the X4.
The second generation of the BMW X4 was revealed in 2018 and brought a refreshed design, as well as new features.
The front of the car looked very similar to the one of the previous X4, however, the small differences made it look even more aggressive and modern, like the bigger front grille with a 3D look.
The back of the car looked completely new, with its new taillights that were used on the BMW 8-Series and 3-Series being placed at the extreme edges.
While the X4 had a high loading lid, once inside, the cargo area offered 525 liters. What’s more, the rear seats were foldable and the space could increase considerably.
Opening the trunk lid was easier by pressing the BMW Logo instead of the old fashioned way we were used with.
The practical sports coupe had improved driving dynamics, having a double wishbone setup, a widened rear track and a perfect 50-50 front to rear distribution.
The ride height was lowered, thus the X4 had a lower center of gravity. The car could easily take turns at high speeds with its astonishing degree of handling.
Users could choose between from the standard model of 190 hp to the top of the range, the 354 hp M40i.
The interior was made with great to touch materials, visually very modern with its virtual digital cockpit technology developed by BMW. The seats were very comfortable and offered great support.
The passengers in the back though should not be very tall, as the roof line is low. The middle seat could only accommodate a child if comfort was desired.
The second Sport Activity Coupe in BMW’s history was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show 2014 in its production form after being introduced as a concept around a year earlier.
The new model featured styling cues that fitted perfectly within the BMW range at the moment, with the headlights connected to the kidney grilles, massive air intakes and a front bumper that subtly concealed the usual ‘X’ all SUV-like Bavarian cars do. On the engine front, all units were EU6 compliant and all of them were available with the automatic 8-speed gearbox, only one being offered with a manual, the entry-level xDrive20d model. For the first time on one of their models, the Germans decided to offer a balanced selection of both diesel and petrol engines, some countries getting only one choice, like the UK where only diesel models were initially put up for sale. Performances were impressive as the near 2-ton car, in its most powerful version, the xDrive35d, could do 62 mph in just 5.2 seconds. The X4 also was fitted with the latest onboard technology from BMW, as part of the ConnectedDrive system.