[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he all-new 2015 BMW X4 is a bigger hatchback version of the X3 and if you found that one appealing, this crossover four-door “coupe” will make you salivate with anticipation.
The X4 basically rides on the same platform as the popular X3 and it was designed for style and performance rather than utility. It’s in the league of competition as such other small luxury crossovers as the Range Rover Evoque, Porsche Macan and the new Lincoln MKC.
The large air intakes on the front end and the character lines in the front apron, the signature BMW twin headlights and front fog lights (both optional with LED technology) give the X4 a strong visual presence on the road. The roofline reaches its highest point above the driver and then drops smoothly to the trailing edge of the tailgate, a design characteristic of a classic sport coupe.
The BMW signature line that usually runs along the flanks of models is split on the X4. The first section rises from the front wheel arches to the rear door handles, while the second part of it draws the eye to the muscular design of the rear wings. The rear end completes with L-shaped LED lights and diffuser- look styling.
For power, there’s a choice of three gas engines and three diesels. Base power is a turbocharged 240 hp 2.0-liter four cylinder in the X4 xDrive28 (48/52/55). For more power, the turbocharged 3.0-liter 300 hp straight-six X4 xDrive35i (26/41/34 mpg) is a nice option. A four-cylinder 190 hp engine unit is also available. The X4 comes standard with xDrive all-wheel drive. All are mated to an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission with paddle shifters. The xDrive28 clocks 0-60 mph in 6.0 seconds, while the xDrive35i does it in 5.2 seconds.
Available is BMW’s EfficientDynamics technology package that minimizes fuel consumption and emissions with such features as the Auto Start Stop function and Brake Energy Regeneration. Also available as an option are fourth-generation reduced rolling resistance tires.
The new X4 is loaded with technology, including a full-color BMW Head-Up Display, the anti-dazzle High Beam Assistant and Driving Assistant Plus including Lane Departure Warning, Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function, preventive pedestrian protection and a Collision Warning system that will apply the brakes with anything up to maximum stopping power as required. The optional ConnectedDrive Services lets you sign up for innovative items such as Real Time Traffic Information (RTTI).
Pricing
The 2015 BMW X4 is priced from $45,625 for the xDrive28 model to $48,925 for the xDrive35i.
[author image=”http://www.samaonline.org/Ron.jpg” ]Ron Beasley is the automotive editor for Miami’s Community Newspapers. He may be contacted by calling 305-662-2277, ext. 261, or by addressing email correspondence to LetsTalkCars@aol.com.[/author]
