2024 BMW X4 M40i

　　

2024 BMW X4 Review

byChristian WardlawCorrespondent

　　Christian Wardlaw has worked in the automotive industry since 1994. He has written nearly 10,000 car-related articles and tested and reviewed more than 2,000 vehicles over the course of his career. Chris is a correspondent at zzdcar and was the first editor-in-chief of zzdcar.com in the 1990s. He has also contributed to Autotrader, CarGurus, J.D. Power, Kelley Blue Book, NADAguides, New York Daily News Autos and WardsAuto. His mom claims that his first word was “car,” and Chris believes that Miata is always the answer.

　　, rating written byChristian WardlawReviews 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.

　　Based on the BMW X3, the 2024 BMW X4 is a slightly longer and lower small luxury crossover SUV featuring a sloping rather than squared-off roofline. The point of the X4 is its sportier and more distinctive design, but it comes at a cost to passenger and cargo room. In addition, you'll pay thousands of dollars more to buy an X4 instead of a similar X3. Otherwise, aside from minor equipment differences, these BMWs are the same thing wrapped in different packaging.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2024 BMW X4 M40i 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 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

　　$203/mo  for X4 M40i

　　X4 M40i

　　M40i 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) (Most Popular) - $66,400 MSRP

　　vs

　　$183/mo

　　Avg. Midsize SUV

　　

zzdcar spotlight: What's the difference between the X3 and X4?

Mainly, the differences between a BMW X3 and BMW X4 relate to styling and interior space. For example, the X4 provides almost half an inch of extra front-seat legroom but loses nearly an inch of headroom. In addition, rear passenger headroom in the X4 gets a 1.6-inch haircut, and legroom shrinks by nearly an inch. You might decide these losses aren't a big deal, but don't forget to consider cargo space. The X4 has 10.2 cubic feet less room for luggage behind the back seat and is 12.2 cubic feet smaller when it comes to maximum volume. Lastly, the X4 needs another 1.7 inches of lengthwise clearance to fit into your garage.

　　

Competitors to consider

If your heart is set on a coupe-style crossover SUV like the BMW X4, there are several similar alternatives. They include the stylish Audi Q5 Sportback, Infiniti QX55 and redesigned Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe. If you're willing to go electric, the Genesis GV60, Tesla Model Y and Volvo C40 Recharge are all stylish models as well. Before you buy, though, be sure to read our full Expert Rating of the BMW X4.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.

　　Average

　　7.5

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

7.5/10

　　How does the X4 drive? We tested the xDrive30i. It doesn't sprint off the line with a whole lot of verve, but once you're rolling there's plenty of zip. Our four-cylinder test car didn't break any records on its way to 60 mph in 7.6 seconds, but we like the eight-speed transmission's responsiveness.

　　The X4's brakes react quickly and are smooth and easy to use in regular driving, but handling is its biggest strength. With its standard M Sport suspension (the regular suspension is a no-cost option), our X4 test car felt solid and composed through quick corners and curves. The steering loads up well in Sport mode during curves. It's well weighted but still sharp and accurate, inspiring confidence when breezing through twistier sections of road.

　　

Comfort

8.0/10

　　How comfortable is the X4? The X4's seats are firm, supportive and great for long stints behind the wheel. Multiple adjustments for the front seats include thigh extenders and inflatable side bolsters, ensuring a good fit for most body types.

　　While the X4's ride is taut, it shrugs off rough roads reasonably well. It's also pretty quiet. There's a touch of wind noise, but the smooth ride, zesty engine and hushed interior make it easy to drive the X4 deceptively fast. It's easy to exceed the speed limit without realizing it.

　　Continue reading zzdcar Expert Rating below