What makes the 2019 BMW X4 stand out? Sports Activity Coupe; A term that the Munich-based automaker crafted for its oddball SUV, the X6, when it went on sale in 2008. According to BMW, an SAV is essentially an SUV that is mixed with the very nature of a coupe. Despite its oddball silhouette and a very uncanny design, BMW managed to gain traction in a new segment with the X6, even in India. Based on the traditional X5, the X6 was a pint bigger than its sibling sitting atop the X range in the Bavarian automaker’s line-up.
Based on the unconventional design of the X6, the X4 was launched in the year 2014. Now, as the name suggests, the X4 was smaller and it was certainly based on the X3. In India, BMW decided to launch the X4, in its second generation, in 2019. So, here’s a glimpse of what makes the rather unconventional Beemer stand out, from our BMW X4 review. So, the biggest USP of the X4 – over the X3, of course – has to be the design. The steep coupe-like roofline, sporty roof spoiler, elegant taillamps, and the large profile makes the X4 stand out and pry eyeballs on the move. The 19-inch wheels fill the arches very well, and the silver cladding that runs across the body looks very modern. But I am not completely satisfied with the front end. Sure, the toothy kidney grille flanked by BMW’s horizontal headlamps, and the wide air inlets exude sportiness, but it doesn’t bode well with the overall profile. However, there are some nice sporty touches thanks to the standard-fit M-Sport kit.
Speaking of the sportier elements, and the all-black cabin layout with contrast red stitching comes as a gulp of fresh air in our beige-obsessed market. On the flip side, the black layout seeps the airiness of the already limited space inside the cabin. Nonetheless, the front seats are very supportive and comfortable while holding the driver in the right places. The driver is surrounded by a 10.4-inch iDrive system and a fully-digital instrument cluster, that offers a plethora of features. Amidst the two diesel and a petrol engine option, the test car we had – the xDrive40i – was powered by 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol that is capable of churning out 248bhp and 350Nm of torque. The power delivery is good and the availability of torque from as low as 1,450rpm makes it a breeze to drive in the city. The eight-speed ZF-sourced automatic is seamless and lightning quick. However, the ride quality is on the stiffer side, resulting in a bone-jarring experience. Despite that, the steering lacks any real feel or communication from the front wheels. So, should you get an X4? If you’re looking for a practical SUV, you’re certainly better off with an X3. However, what makes the X4 really stand out is the fastback design and the way it turns heads on the move. And that’s the sole reason you wouldn’t miss one on the road. To read our full BMW X4 review, be sure to tune in to autoX.