What is BMW X4?
The BMW X4 is a compact luxury crossover SUV that BMW has manufactured since 2010. BMW markets it as a sports activity coupé (SAC), making it their second model to receive this designation after the X6. This classification emphasizes its unique design that blends SUV utility with the roofline and styling elements of a traditional two-door coupé.
The X4 serves as a sportier, sleeker version of the X3 and shares the same platform and simple styling elements with the third-generation BMW X3. The vehicle trades some practicality for a sloping rear roof that creates a more athletic look. BMW has announced that 2025 will be the final model year for the X4.
BMW introduced the first-generation X4 at the 2014 New York International Auto Show. The vehicle later appeared at the 13th Beijing International Automotive Exhibition 2014 and the 22nd Auto Mobil International Leipzig 2014. The company revealed the second-generation online in February 2018 and began sales in July that year.
The latest X4’s dimensions exceed its predecessor by 81mm in length and 37mm in width. These larger proportions create a longer, lower profile and add more interior space.
BMW offers both petrol and diesel engines for the X4. The entry-level four-cylinder xDrive20d comes with a 2.0-liter unit that generates 187bhp and reaches 0-62mph in 7.9 seconds. The six-cylinder xDrive30d delivers 282bhp and hits 0-62mph in 5.7 seconds. The high-performance M40i model features a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder petrol engine that produces 355bhp. Every X4 comes standard with BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive system and an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The X4’s cabin matches the X3’s high quality but adds a sportier touch. Front passengers get plenty of space and adjustable sports seats, though taller rear passengers might find limited headroom due to the sloping roofline. The boot remains practical despite holding just 45 liters less than the X3.
The vehicle competes with other premium coupe SUVs like the Mercedes GLC Coupe, Audi Q5 Sportback, and Porsche Macan. It appeals to drivers who want an SUV’s commanding position along with dynamic styling and driving characteristics.
The BMW X4 balances performance with practicality through its design and engineering, delivering what BMW describes as “the curves of a coupe and the power of an athlete”.
How to read the BMW X4 model name
BMW’s model names follow a logical system that tells you about the car’s series, performance level, and drivetrain technology. The name “BMW X4” reveals much more than just a model designation.
Let’s break down what the X4 name really means. The “X” shows it belongs to BMW’s Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) lineup. Regular sedans use just numbers like 3 Series or 5 Series, but crossovers and SUVs need this X label to show they’re utility vehicles.
The “4” after the X shows where the vehicle sits in terms of size and market position. BMW uses bigger numbers for larger vehicles. Numbers like 4 usually mean sportier models. This explains the X4’s athletic, coupe-like shape compared to other X models with odd numbers.
The model name gets more specific after the basic X4 part. A name like X4 xDrive30i packs extra details. The “30” used to mean engine size but now shows performance level in kilowatts. Models with “30” deliver between 200-250 kW of power, while “40” means more muscle – between 250-300 kW.
Letters at the end tell you about the engine. An “i” means gasoline engine, “d” stands for diesel, and “e” indicates a plug-in hybrid. So an X4 xDrive30i comes with a gasoline engine in the 30 performance range.
The drivetrain setup shows in the name too. “xDrive” means it has BMW’s all-wheel-drive system, while “sDrive” points to two-wheel drive. Most X4s come with xDrive standard to handle all weather conditions and deliver sporty performance.
The X4 has seen two generations: F26 (2014-2018) and G02 (2018-present). These chassis codes don’t appear in showroom names but help identify specific generations for technical work and parts.
BMW created this naming approach to make sense worldwide. The system needs to work as they add new vehicles and technologies. These names must work in all global markets so customers quickly understand what each BMW designation means.
What do the numbers and letters in BMW X4 mean?
BMW’s model names work as a code that tells you key details about each car. Breaking down these names gives you great insights into the car’s size, power, and how it drives.
First digit: Series or size class
The first number in a BMW model name shows where the car fits in BMW’s lineup size-wise. Bigger numbers mean bigger cars. Take the X4 – it sits in BMW’s compact to mid-size range. This numbering system works the same way for all BMW cars, with higher numbers meaning bigger cars that usually cost more. In BMW’s SUV family (X series), the X4 is bigger than the X3 but smaller than the X5.
Next two digits: Performance level
The next two numbers used to show engine size, but that’s changed now. These days, they tell you the power output in kilowatts (kW). The X4 xDrive30i’s “30” means it puts out between 200-250 kW. The “40” in BMW X4 M40i packs even more punch at 250-300 kW. This system helps you quickly compare power across different models, no matter what engine they have.
Letters: Engine and drivetrain type
BMW uses letters to show what’s under the hood:
- “i” means it runs on gas (injection)
- “d” tells you it’s diesel
- “e” means it’s a plug-in hybrid
The “M” badge shows up on BMW’s sportiest cars, either as pure M models (X4M) or M Performance versions (X4 M40i). “M” comes from “Motorsport” – these cars get special treatment from BMW’s racing division to boost performance.
xDrive and sDrive explained
“xDrive” and “sDrive” tell you about the car’s drive system. xDrive is BMW’s smart all-wheel-drive setup. It keeps an eye on road conditions and wheel speeds, sending power to the wheels that need it most. When things get slippery, xDrive quickly shifts power around to keep you going.
“sDrive” means the car has two-wheel drive. Most sDrive BMWs power the rear wheels, but some newer models like the 1-Series power the front wheels instead. xDrive gives you better safety and handling in tough conditions, but you’ll pay a bit more at the pump and at purchase.
The X4 comes with xDrive standard on every model, which shows BMW’s focus on all-weather capability and sporty handling. The system makes the car handle better by splitting power between all four wheels and adjusting power delivery in corners.
How BMW X4 fits into the BMW naming system
BMW’s X4 holds a special place in their vehicle lineup as part of the Sports Activity Coupe (SAC) category. The larger X6 first introduced this designation that helps distinguish these models from regular SUVs through their sleek rooflines and sporty looks.
The X series makes up BMW’s complete SUV range. It starts with the compact X1 and goes up to their flagship luxury model, the X7. BMW built this lineup after seeing how popular their first SUV became – the X5, which they launched in 1999.
The X4 carves out its own identity as the X3’s coupe version. Both share similar platforms, but the X4 stands 55mm lower than the X3. It’s also 43mm longer and 27mm wider. These changes give the X4 that stretched, athletic look that defines BMW’s SAC design philosophy.
BMW follows a simple pattern in their lineup structure. Even-numbered X models (X2, X4, X6) are sportier, coupe-styled versions of their odd-numbered siblings (X1, X3, X5). The X4 fits this pattern by offering a more stylish alternative to the practical X3.
The X4 is a newer addition to BMW’s family. After launching the X5 and X3, BMW tested the coupe-SUV waters with the X6 in 2007. They added the X4 in 2014. This shows how BMW expanded their lineup to cover different size segments.
The X4 shares BMW’s CLAR platform with several models, including the current X3 (G01). The first X4 generation (F26) was built on the F25 X3 platform, which shows how closely these models develop together.
BMW’s signature design elements blend with X4-specific features. Like other sporty BMWs, it sports the mesh kidney grille. Performance models such as the X4 M40i show off typical BMW M badges, with their distinctive kidney grille featuring chrome frames and high-gloss black double bars.
BMW’s approach to naming goes beyond just labeling products. Their strategy creates names that make sense as their lineup grows, ensuring global understanding and authenticity.
BMW X4 vs BMW X3: What’s the difference?
BMW’s X4 and X3 show an interesting split in their SUV lineup. These compact luxury SUVs share the same platform but take completely different approaches to design and functionality.
The design tells the whole story. The X3 keeps things traditional with its upright SUV profile and standard roofline that maximizes space inside. The X4 takes a bolder path with its swooping roofline that trades some practicality for looks – a true example of BMW’s Sports Activity Coupe vision.
Size differences between these siblings are subtle but important. The X4 is 43mm longer and 27mm wider than the X3, but sits 55mm lower to the ground. This gives the X4 a sportier stance and a longer, more coupe-like profile.
These design choices create real differences in everyday use. The X3’s traditional shape gives back-seat passengers more headroom and extra cargo space. The X4 sacrifices some of this utility, with a trunk that’s about 45 liters smaller than its practical sibling.
You’ll pay more for an X4 compared to a similarly equipped X3. This premium reflects its status as the more stylish, exclusive option. Both models share the same engines, tech features, and interior quality – the main choice comes down to practicality versus style.
These two models perfectly show BMW’s smart market strategy. They’ve created different versions of luxury transport from the same basic design. The X3 speaks to buyers who want versatility and space, while the X4 catches the eye of those willing to trade some practicality for unique styling.
FAQs
Q1. What are the main differences between the BMW X4 and X3? The BMW X4 and X3 share the same platform but have distinct designs. The X4 features a sloping roofline for a sportier look, while the X3 has a traditional SUV profile. The X4 is longer, wider, and lower than the X3, offering less headroom and cargo space but a more dynamic appearance.
Q2. What does the “X” in BMW X4 represent? The “X” in BMW X4 designates it as part of BMW’s Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) lineup. This classification distinguishes it from traditional sedans and indicates its status as a crossover or SUV model in BMW’s range.
Q3. How does BMW’s xDrive system work in the X4? BMW’s xDrive is an intelligent all-wheel drive system standard in most X4 models. It continuously monitors road conditions and wheel speeds, automatically redistributing power to wheels with the most traction. This system enhances safety and improves driving dynamics, particularly in challenging weather conditions.
Q4. What do the numbers in BMW X4 model names signify? The numbers in BMW X4 model names, such as “30” in X4 xDrive30i, represent performance levels measured in kilowatts. For instance, “30” indicates performance between 200-250 kW, while “40” represents higher performance between 250-300 kW.
Q5. What engine options are available for the BMW X4? The BMW X4 offers various engine options, including both petrol and diesel powertrains. These range from four-cylinder engines in models like the xDrive20d to more powerful six-cylinder engines in variants such as the xDrive30d and the performance-focused M40i, which features a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder petrol engine.