BMW X4 xDrive 35i (2014) Review

The new BMW X4 has arrived in South Africa and we put this sports activity vehicle to the test.

So what exactly is the BMW X4? BMW claims this new model slots between the X3 and the excellent X5. Visually it resembles a shrunken X6 – which to most onlookers is not a bad thing. Despite my initial reservations about the coupe SUV looks, my Melbourne Red X4 looked very classy. The X4 isn’t well known at all, so expect a few double takes from onlookers.

Engine, Performance and Economy

That still doesn’t explain what it is though. What I can tell you is that it drives rather well. Power comes from the tried-and-tested 3.0-litre turbocharged six cylinder which pushes out 225 kW and 400 Nm. This engine does duty in the 335i M Performance edition and the M235i coupe we had not so long ago.

Interestingly, this X4 engine has an interesting party trick. Gently accelerate, then come off the throttle and there’s quite an obvious whistle from the turbocharger. I can’t recall any other BMW products having this. Put your foot down, and the distinctive six cylinder engine note satisfies aurally. Performance is brisk, with the 0-100kph time sitting around the 5.5 second mark. It’s not too shabby on fuel either for a big performance all-wheel drive SUV either, with the trip computer reading out 12.2L/100km. If you’re worried about fuel consumption, then simply put the car into Eco Pro mode.

Ride and Handling

It’s quick in a straight line and it handles well when you throw it into the corners too. I’d go as far to say as the ride is distinctly sporty and entertainingly fun to drive. The car does feel a little bouncy though and a quick glance through the options list shows you can get Electronic Damper Control, which should sort things out.

For those of you who’d normally dismiss a vehicle like this as a city slicker, the BMW X4 comes with xDrive and 204 mm of ground clearance, making it useful on gravel and rough surfaces.

Interior and specification

Unlike the BMW X6 which was lashed for being a four seater, the X4 has five usable seats. I can happily say I tried them out as I was the designated driver for four friends to the Franschhoek Uncorked Wine Festival. Rear headroom is a little right for taller folk, but the back three passengers managed and weren’t uncomfortable on the journey. The boot space is smaller than expected, and the BMW X4 comes standard with a power-operated bootlid. For an extra amount of cash, you can opt for the smart boot, which opens when you wiggle your foot under the rear bumper.

The interior is typically BMW, with the latest version of iDrive and a very neat infotainment screen which offers superb clarity. The 2014 Range Rover Sport we had not so long ago has such an average display and it pales in comparison to the BMW X4 unit. The entire interior was clad in a white theme, with the seats having splashes of red. The headrests have an embossed X logo in them too – a nice touch.

The test car came equipped with a heads-up display, outstanding Harmon Kardon audio, all-round camera system which makes parking a breeze (watch the same system here), very attractive daytime running lights, Xenon headlamps, cruise control, auto headlights and rain-sensing wipers. It also came with the BMW M Sport package, which gives it sportier wheels and an aggressive body kit.

Summary and conclusion

The BMW X4 is the answer to a question no-one was asking. While many will dismiss this as BMW trying to cash in on a genre that doesn’t exist, it’s actually quite a good product. Logic should dictate getting an X3 which offers a little bit more space for less money, or going all out and trying to buy a BMW X5 – a superb product in all aspects. There’s just something about the BMW X4 though, I can’t put my finger on it, but I think it’ll prove popular. Personally, I’d go the sensible route and opt for one of the diesel-powered versions.

Second Opinion

The BMW X4 is an attempt at a stylish, mid-life SUV, much like Range Rover’s Evoque. It lacks the outright appeal of the Rangie, but takes top spot dynamically at the expense of ride comfort. – Ashley Oldfield

BMW X4 xDrive 35i quick specs

We like:
. Good looking and unique
. Useful ground clearance and all-wheel drive ability
. Great choice of engines

We dislike:
. Rear headroom is a little cramped
. Options list can push the price up considerably – spec carefully!

Also consider:
Range Rover Evoque
BMW X3
Porsche Macan