News: BMW unveils sporty X4 SUV, son of larger X6
Macan and Evoque, watch out!
HOT ON the heels of the Porsche Macan and Range Rover Evoque comes a rival in the shape of this, the new BMW X4.
Built on the same platform as the BMW X3, the new four-wheel-drive model is a sporty SUV that resembles a scaled-down version of the larger BMW X6.
Like that car, the X4’s sporty intent is signalled by a muscular, coupé profile replete with oversize air intakes and arch-filling alloy wheels. Inside, occupants sit lower than in the X3. In addition, the X4 has more equipment as standard including an automatically opening tailgate, front and rear park distance control and Xenon headlights.
Three engines ‒ all diesel ‒ will be offered at launch: a 187bhp 2-litre, and a 3-litre available in 254bhp and 307bhp forms. With standard-fit Launch Control the range-topping X4 xDrive 35d sprints from 0-62mph in 5.2sec, but with a light foot can return 47.1mpg, and 157g/km CO2.
Thanks to its sports suspension, Variable Sport Steering and BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel drive system that apportions power to the wheels as required, the X4 is claimed to offer a sportier drive than the X3.
The new car will arrive in showrooms this July priced from £36,590 for the xDrive 20d SE, about £5,000 more than the equivalent X3.
