BMW X4
Used Car Review

Overview

Thinking about a premium SUV that refuses to follow the crowd? The BMW X4 might be exactly what you’re looking for. This distinctive coupe SUV combines the practicality of an SUV with the sleek styling of a sports coupe, creating something truly unique in the premium crossover market. It’s designed for drivers who want to stand out while enjoying BMW’s renowned driving dynamics and luxury credentials.

From the moment you see it, the X4 divides opinion in the best possible way. Its sloping roofline and muscular stance give it an athletic presence that traditional SUVs simply can’t match. Rivals like the Mercedes GLC Coupe and Audi Q5 Sportback offer similar concepts, but the X4 pioneered this segment with its bold design language. Inside, you’ll find BMW’s latest technology and premium materials that create a driver focused environment.

The X4 delivers on its sporting promises too. Whether you choose the efficient 20d diesel or the punchy M40i petrol, the driving experience feels engaging and refined. It handles with more precision than traditional SUVs while offering better ground clearance and all weather capability than a regular saloon. While it sacrifices some practicality for style, the X4 rewards you with exclusivity and presence that makes every journey feel special.

What's the BMW X4 Like to Drive?

The BMW X4 offers a compelling range of engines that balance performance with efficiency. The entry level 20d diesel produces 190 horsepower and delivers strong torque for effortless cruising, achieving 0-60mph in 7.9 seconds. For those wanting more excitement, the 30i petrol engine provides 252 horsepower with a 0-60mph time of 6.3 seconds. At the top of the range, the M40i delivers 382 horsepower and rockets from 0-60mph in just 4.8 seconds, offering genuine sports car acceleration in a practical SUV package.

Where the X4 truly excels is in its driving dynamics. The steering is precise and well weighted, giving you confidence through corners that most SUVs can’t match. The adaptive suspension keeps body roll well controlled while maintaining ride comfort over longer distances. All models come with xDrive all wheel drive as standard, providing excellent grip in all weather conditions. The result is a vehicle that feels more like a raised sports car than a traditional SUV, making it genuinely enjoyable to drive on both city streets and country roads.

Inside the BMW X4: Comfort & Features

Step inside the X4 and you’re greeted by BMW’s high quality interior design that feels both modern and luxurious. The dashboard features the latest iDrive infotainment system with a crisp 10.25 inch display that’s intuitive to use. Material quality is excellent throughout, with soft touch surfaces, precise switchgear, and available leather upholstery that feels genuinely premium. The driving position is commanding yet sporty, with supportive seats that work well for both daily commuting and longer road trips.

The cabin is impressively quiet, with excellent sound insulation that keeps road and wind noise to a minimum. Standard equipment includes dual zone climate control, wireless charging, and smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The sloping roofline does impact rear headroom compared to the regular X3, but front seat passengers enjoy generous space and comfort. Higher specification models add features like heated and ventilated seats, ambient lighting, and a premium Harman Kardon sound system that enhances the luxury experience.

The BMW X4 succeeds in its mission to offer something different in the premium SUV market. Its distinctive styling sets it apart from more conventional rivals, while the driving experience delivers the engaging dynamics that BMW is famous for. The interior quality is excellent, and the range of engines provides options for different priorities, from efficiency focused diesels to performance oriented petrols.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run a BMW X4?

As a premium BMW, the X4 comes with correspondingly premium running costs that reflect its upmarket positioning. The diesel engines offer the best fuel economy, with the 20d achieving up to 42mpg in real world driving, helping to keep fuel bills manageable. The petrol engines are less efficient but still reasonable, with the 30i returning around 32mpg in mixed driving. Insurance groups range from moderate to high depending on the engine choice, with the powerful M40i commanding higher premiums.

The main consideration is the initial purchase price, which starts from around £45,000 for the entry level model and can exceed £65,000 for a well equipped M40i. This puts it firmly in premium territory, though car finance options can help spread the cost. Depreciation is typical for a luxury German SUV, though the X4’s unique styling helps it hold value better than more mainstream alternatives. Servicing costs are in line with other premium BMWs, and the build quality is generally reliable when properly maintained.

BMW X4 Practicality & Boot Space

For a coupe SUV, the BMW X4 offers surprisingly good practicality. The 525 litre boot is generous enough for family holidays or weekly shopping trips, and the 40:20:40 split folding rear seats allow you to carry longer items when needed. Inside the cabin, there are plenty of storage compartments for phones, wallets, and drinks. The high driving position gives excellent visibility in traffic, while the compact dimensions make it manageable in tight car parks.

Where the X4 shows its limitations is in rear passenger space. The sloping roofline reduces headroom for taller adults, making it less suitable for regular rear seat passengers compared to conventional SUVs. However, for couples or families with younger children, the X4 provides adequate space for everyday use. Its unique positioning among used BMW cars makes it ideal for buyers who want SUV versatility without the bulk of larger models like the X5 or X7.

The BMW X4 carves out its own niche in the premium SUV market by prioritizing style and driving dynamics over pure practicality. It successfully combines the elevated driving position and all weather capability of an SUV with the sporting character and distinctive looks of a coupe. The result is a vehicle that feels special and exclusive, backed by BMW’s reputation for build quality and engineering excellence.

You choose the X4 because you want something different from the usual SUV crowd. Its bold styling, engaging driving experience, and premium interior make it a compelling choice for buyers who value individuality. While it may not be the most practical or economical option in its class, it offers a unique blend of attributes that’s hard to find elsewhere. For drivers seeking a premium SUV with genuine personality, the X4 delivers an experience that’s both distinctive and rewarding.