2023 BMW X4 M SUV

　　

2023 BMW X4 M Review

byDan FrioReviews Editor

　　Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show). As a contributor to zzdcar, he now likes to keep the volume low and the speed limit legal, providing expert car-shopping advice to drivers looking for the perfect match.

　　We get it. Sometimes the boxed SUV look just doesn't connect. Despite the cabin and cargo space advantages, a boxy SUV doesn't usually satisfy the sports-car itch for many drivers. The BMW X3 is an all-around favorite for its sporty practicality, but drivers who need more visual excitement can look to the X4 or its high-performance alternative, the 2023 BMW X4 M. The latter is the one to get if you want the sauce to back up the style. The X4's design may be polarizing, but it's more palatable when served with up to 500-plus horsepower.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2023 BMW X4 M 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.78 per gallon for premium unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$274/mo  for X4 M Base

　　X4 M Base

　　4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) (Most Popular) - $76,400 MSRP

　　vs

　　$183/mo

　　Avg. Midsize SUV

　　With its turbocharged 473-horsepower six-cylinder engine and sport-tuned adaptive suspension, the X4 M is mechanically identical to the X3 M. It drives and handles the same as well: quick, agile and responsive, especially for a compact SUV. Where they differ, of course, is aft of the rear doors. The X4 M's raked rear end makes for a sleeker profile but comes at the expense of cargo space and rear visibility. Drivers seeking maximum performance can opt for the Competition model, which generates 503 hp and sprints from 0 to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds.

　　After styling updates and a slight power increase last year, the X4 M carries into 2023 with no changes. That's a shame because BMW has started rolling out its newest infotainment system in some models. Along with software updates, the new system features a "floating" display that merges the digital instrument panel and the central touchscreen into a seamless curved screen up to about 27 inches wide. (The display is attached to struts affixed to the dash to achieve its floating look.) The X4, however, isn't among the models slated for the new system this year. That said, the current iDrive system, with its 10-inch touchscreen and secondary dial controls, remains an effective and capable technology interface.

　　Overall, the X4 M is a mixed bag. It's a fleet-footed small SUV with sports car style, which gives it some distinction on the road. But it rides rougher than the regular X4 and costs more than the X3 M or Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 43, which both offer more maximum cargo space and rear passenger room. But for drivers who prefer a bit more style over sensibility, the X4 M's limitations are a fair trade.

　　

Which X4 M does zzdcar recommend?

With its additional power, racing-style seats and upgraded leather, the X4 M Competition model is tempting. But its larger 21-inch wheels amplify an already stiff ride, so consider this only if you can compromise comfort for increased performance. Instead, we'd pick the standard X4 M with the Driving Assistance Professional package for its partial self-driving features, and we'd add ventilated seats and wireless device charging from the à la carte options list.

　　

BMW X4 M models

The 2023 BMW X4 M comes in two trims: the standard X4 M and X4 M Competition. Both are powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine. In the X4 M, it makes 473 horsepower and 457 lb-ft of torque, while the X4 M Competition gets a bump in both horsepower and torque (503 hp, 479 lb-ft). The engine pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.

　　X4 M

　　The standard model comes well equipped with: 

　　20-inch wheels Adaptive sport suspension Adaptive LED headlights Power liftgate Panoramic sunroof Leather upholstery Dual-zone climate control Heated front seats Ambient cabin lighting Front and rear parking sensors 12.3-inch touchscreen Navigation system Harman Kardon premium audio system Apple CarPlay (wireless) and Android Auto smartphone integration Satellite radioThe X4 M also comes standard with a number of BMW's driver aids and safety features, including:

　　Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios) Blind-spot warning (alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot) Rear cross-traffic warning (alerts you if a vehicle behind you is about to cross your vehicle's path while you're in reverse) Lane departure warning (alerts you if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane)X4 M Competition

　　The Competition commands a significant premium over the standard model but offers more power and other upgrades, including: 

　　21-inch wheels Sport suspension tuning Performance exhaust system Gloss black exterior trim Sport front seats Upgraded leather upholsteryThe X4 M is also available with a few notable option packages:

　　Driving Assistance Professional package Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the X4 M and the car in front) Lane keeping system (makes minor steering corrections to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane) Executive package Heated front and rear seats Heated steering wheel Head-up display Wireless charging pad Gesture control for phone and audio functions Automated parallel and perpendicular parking system The X4 M also offers several stand-alone options such as:

　　Upgraded brakes Sport seats Heated steering wheel Ventilated front seats Wireless device charger

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