With the unveiling of the BMW X4, the Bavarian luxury carmaker has finally staked its claim in the rapidly growing premium crossover segment.
Looking much like a micronized version of the X6, the BMW X4’s profile takes in a sweeping roofline echoed by strong character lines on the flanks that, in themselves, bridge a prominent set of wheelarches.
The familial face, comprising a more horizontally orientated take on the twin-kidney grille into which the swept-back headlamps flow, sits atop an aggressively styled deep front valance with distinctive spotlamps.
The rear aspect takes in BMW’s now-signature L-shaped brakelamps and a pseudo-diffuser rear apron with a single exhaust port for what is likely a smaller-engined version pictured here.
As befitting its model nomenclature, the X4’s dimensions are 14 mm longer and 36 mm lower than those of the X3.
The cabin doesn’t represent a massive departure from that of the X3, bar a couple of model-specific trims options. According to BMW, dropping the X4’s 40:20:40 split rear backrests will serve up around 1 400 mm of utility space.
At the time of the reveal, BMW has stated that a total is ix powerplants will be offered globally. The diesel line-up will be represented by a 2,0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel (140 kW/400 N.m) and a brace of 3,0-litre, six-cylinder, turbocharged units in two states of tune; a 190 kW/560 N.m mid-ranger and a range topping 230 kW/630 N.m version.
The petrol units will comprise a pair of 2,0-litre, turbocharged, four-cylinder units developing 135 kW/270 N.m and 180 kW/350 N.m and a 3,0-litre turbo inline-six with 225 kW and 400 N.m on tap.
The entry-level diesel will reportedly be offered with a choice of six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmissions, while the rest of the pack will get the self-shifter as standard.
BMW’s initial press release states that all of the above models will feature a sporty suspension set-up and will employ the company’s xDrive torque-apportioning all-wheel-drive. Much like the Mercedes-Benz GLA, xDrive-equipped models will also feature a vehicle schematic display in their iDrive modules that show a compass, as well as the status and workings of the all-wheel-drive system.
The local model line-up has yet to be confirmed, but we can expect the X4 to hit our shores during the fourth quarter of the year.