2016 BMW X4
New for 2016
For 2016, the BMW X4 adds a standard 16-speaker harman/kardon® to the xDrive35i trim.
A Break from the Norm
In search of a SUV that truly emphasizes the "sport" in sport utility vehicle? Then look no further than the 2016 BMW X4. When it comes to new model types, the Bavarian automaker has never been shy about venturing into uncharted waters. The X4 is a welcome break from the norm, providing BMW's trademark handling mixed with coupe-like styling and an added dash of utility. Can't decide between a high-riding SUV or a sporty coupe? The 2016 X4 gives you the best of both worlds so you don't have to.
Powertrains and Performance
The 2016 BMW X4 is offered with two sporty and efficient powertrain options.
The X4 xDrive28i gets a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that’s shared with numerous other BMW models. It produces 240 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, and can launch the X4 to 60 mph from a standstill in six seconds flat.
Also shared with other BMW models, the X4 xDrive35i’s 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six pumps out 300 hp and 300 lb-ft, enough for a 0 to 60 mph time of 5.2 seconds.
Both X4 models feature an eight-speed automatic transmission, BMW’s “xDrive” all-wheel drive system, and a start-stop function that shuts off the engine while the vehicle is stationary to save fuel. The top speed of both models is 130 mph.
On the efficiency side, the four-cylinder X4 has an EPA fuel-economy rating of 23 mpg combined (20 mpg city, 28 mpg highway),* while the six-cylinder model loses 1 mpg in each category.
Features and Trims
BMW calls the X4 a coupe because of its low roofline, but it still has four full-size doors and a tailgate like a conventional crossover, with seating for five inside.
Regardless of which engine you choose, the X4 comes with a choice of two trim “lines”—M Sport and xLine—that add their own unique styling pieces.
From there, standard equipment includes a 40/20/40 split-folding rear bench seat, eight-way power-adjustable front seats, automatic climate control, a three-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel, and BMW’s iDrive control system.
There are also several option packages with more convenience and tech features. These include the Cold Weather package, which adds a heated steering wheel and seats, a Lighting package with full LED illumination, and the Technology package, which includes features such as real-time traffic information, a head-up display, and BMW Online connectivity.
In addition, notable individual options include Dynamic Damper Control adaptive suspension, Harman Kardon® surround sound system (which is now standard on xDrive35i), parking assist, and navigation.
Design
The main reason for buying an X4 over its X3 sibling—or any other SUV or crossover—is its flashier styling. Modeled on the larger X6, the X4 combines traditional SUV styling cues with the steeply-sloped roofline of a sporty coupe. That’s why BMW calls it a “Sport Activity Coupe.”
At the front, there’s a bold grille flanked by fog lights and BMW’s signature “halo” headlights, and the wheel wells are aggressively squared off. At the back, though, the X4 has a profile unlike virtually any other SUV: a Mustang-like fastback rear window.
That decreases headroom a bit, but in every other dimension the X4 is just as spacious inside as a normal SUV. The seats are also mounted a bit lower to give the driving position a sportier feel, although the high ride height SUV buyers love is preserved.
The interior itself features BMW’s typical attention to detail, with a straightforward layout and high-quality materials. For infotainment control, an iDrive knob sits on the center console and there are redundant audio, cruise, and Bluetooth® controls on the steering wheel.
Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2016 BMW X4 includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, hill-descent control, and a full array of airbags.
In addition, park-distance control and a rearview camera are available in the Driver Assistance package, and the Driver Assistance Plus package adds BMW’s Active Driving Assistant, blind-spot monitoring, and speed limit information.
Bottom Line
The 2016 BMW X4 is a luxury crossover that quite literally thinks outside the box. It offers all of the features and capability of its BMW stablemates, but with styling that sets it apart from the crowd.
Test-drive one for yourself by visiting or contacting us at BMW of Silver Spring.
*EPA-estimated figures only. Your actual mileage will vary.
**MSRP Shown. Price excludes destination and handling.
Image: BMW (European model shown)