First launched in 2014, the BMW X4 established itself as a pioneer of the premium SUV-coupé segment, blending the practicality of an SUV with the sporty lines of a coupé. The latest generation, launched in 2018 and refreshed in 2022, brings sharper design cues, advanced technology, and a broader range of efficient, electrified powertrains. The X4 is positioned as a stylish, upmarket alternative to traditional family SUVs rivalling the Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupé and the Audi Q5 Sportback. However, its engaging driving dynamics and premium, driver-centric interior make it feel more performance-oriented than those models.
The BMW X4 is a well-rounded premium SUV-coupé that delivers driving enjoyment, refinement, and standout looks. While its coupé silhouette comes at the expense of some practicality, the X4 compensates with strong performance, advanced technology, and a high level of standard equipment. It’s not the cheapest option in its class, and it doesn’t have the breadth of powertrain options seen in rivals, but it’s a bold and appealing car if it suits your needs.
Jack is an experienced motoring journalist who has been covering the latest new-car releases for the last 10 years.
Read bioNew BMW X4 prices start from £52,460 for the entry-level xDrive20i M Sport, with high-spec M40i or M40d models reaching over £65,000.
All variants come generously equipped, so there’s little need to add expensive options unless you desire further personalisation or technology upgrades.
On the used market, 2018-on X4s are available on AAcars.com from around £20,000, meaning there are some extremely appealing bargains to be had if you don’t mind an older or higher-mileage model.
The BMW X4 offers a choice of petrol and diesel engines, all turbocharged and most featuring mild hybrid technology for improved efficiency. The core range includes the xDrive20i (184bhp, 2.0-litre petrol), xDrive30i (245bhp, 2.0-litre petrol), xDrive20d (190bhp, 2.0-litre diesel), xDrive30d (286bhp, 3.0-litre diesel), and the high-performance M40i (360bhp, 3.0-litre petrol) and M40d (340bhp, 3.0-litre diesel) models.
All engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic gearbox, delivering smooth and responsive shifts. Performance is brisk across the range: the xDrive20d accelerates from 0–62 mph in 7.9 seconds, while the M40i achieves the same in just 4.9 seconds.
The X4 rewards keen drivers with agile handling and a planted, stable and sporty feel that’s unusual for an SUV.
The xDrive all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in all weathers, while the variable sport steering ensures precise control. The ride is generally composed, although M Sport models with larger wheels can feel firm over poor surfaces.
The range of engines delivers strong acceleration and refined cruising abilities, with diesel variants excelling on longer journeys thanks to their torque and efficiency. The mild hybrid systems subtly assist with low-speed responsiveness and help to reduce fuel consumption in city traffic – but don’t expect any X4 to be especially frugal.
Although an SUV, the X4 is engineered for driver engagement, with a chassis that feels taut and responsive. Body roll is well contained, and the steering offers good feedback for a car of this type.
Adaptive M suspension (standard on M models, optional elsewhere) allows the driver to tailor the ride from comfort to sport, making the X4 a versatile choice for both daily commutes and spirited weekend drives.
The sloping roofline and low driving position lend a sportier ambience, but rearward visibility is somewhat compromised. Parking sensors and a reversing camera come as standard to mitigate this.
Open the door and you’re greeted by a high-quality cabin with a driver-focused layout.
Premium materials abound, with soft-touch plastics, standard leather upholstery, and tactile switchgear creating a luxurious environment with a distinctively BMW high end feel.
The dashboard is dominated by a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with BMW’s latest iDrive interface, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, DAB radio, and navigation as standard.
There’s ample legroom for front occupants, and the sporty, supportive seats provide excellent comfort on long journeys. The rear seats, while accommodating adults, are slightly less spacious due to the coupé-style roof, especially when it comes to headroom, though legroom is highly competitive. Isofix mounts are fitted on the outer rear seats for buyers who may need them.
The X4 offers 525 litres of boot space with the seats up, expanding to 1,430 litres with the 40:20:40 split-folding rear bench folded flat. The powered tailgate and low loading sill make loading straightforward, although the sloping rear window does eat into overall capacity compared to a conventional SUV.
Cabin storage is generous, with large door bins, a well-sized glovebox, cupholders, and a central armrest compartment.
All X4 models are well-equipped, even in entry-level trims. Standard kit includes triple-zone climate control, heated front seats, LED headlights, keyless entry and start, parking sensors, a reversing camera and a suite of advanced driver assistance features. Higher trims add adaptive LED headlights, a panoramic glass roof, upgraded Harman/Kardon audio systems, and extended leather upholstery. Wireless smartphone charging and BMW’s gesture control interface are available on selected models.
The BMW X4 is offered in two primary trims: M Sport and M Performance (M40i/M40d).
The M Sport trim gets 19-inch alloy wheels and an aerodynamic body kit that includes sporty front and rear bumpers. Exterior highlights include high-gloss Shadowline trim, LED headlights and taillights, rain-sensing wipers, and heated, electrically folding door mirrors. It also gets M Sport suspension, with selectable driving modes such as ECO PRO, Comfort, and Sport. Inside, you’ll find sports seats with part-Alcantara or Vernasca leather upholstery, an M leather steering wheel, aluminium Rhombicle interior trim with Pearl Chrome accents, and ambient lighting, plus triple- zone climate control and electric front seat adjustment with driver memory.
The M Sport trim also includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster paired with a 12.3-inch central touchscreen running BMW iDrive 7.0, supporting navigation, real-time traffic, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, DAB radio, and USB connectivity. Safety and driver assistance features are comprehensive, with front and rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, multiple airbags, and ISOFIX child seat mounts.
The M Performance trim, available as either M40i or M40d, adds 20-inch or optional 21-inch alloy wheels in unique designs, an M Sport differential for the rear axle, and exclusive M Performance styling elements such as Cerium Grey highlights, distinct grille and mirror caps, and adaptive LED headlights. It also has M Sport brakes with blue-painted callipers, and variable sport steering.
Heated leather front seats come as standard, with heated rear seats available as an option. Other premium touches include a Harman/Kardon sound system, a panoramic glass sunroof and keyless entry with a hands-free tailgate. Infotainment builds on the M Sport’s offerings with the addition of a head-up display, gesture control, and wireless charging for compatible smartphones.
Colour choices range from classic Alpine White, Black Sapphire, and Mineral Grey to more expressive options like Phytonic Blue, Flamenco Red, and Brooklyn Grey.
For those looking to personalise their X4 even further, the BMW Individual programme allows for extensive unique features, with exclusive paints and interior finishes.
The BMW X4 shares its platform with the X3 and earned five stars in the Euro NCAP safety tests.
The most recent Euro NCAP evaluation for the X4 took place in 2017, where it achieved remarkable safety ratings: 93% for adult occupant protection, 84% for child occupant protection, 70% for vulnerable road users (pedestrian safety), and 58% for safety assist. These were for the previous model, but the current car is an evolution of this and should have a very similar crash performance.
It features a comprehensive suite of standard safety systems, including multiple airbags, autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and traffic sign recognition.
BMW enjoys a strong reputation for reliability and customer satisfaction, supported by great build quality and an extensive dealer network. The X4 also benefits from regular over-the-air software updates to keep technology current.
Official WLTP fuel economy figures for the X4 range from 32-52 mpg, depending on engine and drivetrain.
The xDrive20d diesel achieves up to 52 mpg, while the petrol M40i returns closer to 32 mpg. Plug-in hybrid variants offer even lower fuel consumption and emissions for urban drivers or company car users. CO2 emissions range from 139 g/km (xDrive20d) to 199 g/km (M40i).
Annual road tax (2025/26) varies by model, with most X4s incurring the standard rate of £180, plus an additional supplement for cars costing over £40,000. Insurance groups are higher than many rivals, typically between 34 and 44.
BMW offers service packages, and warranty cover is three years with unlimited mileage.
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