BMW introduced the X4 as a Sports Activity Coupe in 2014 with its forward-thinking design that confronted the status quo with boldness and versatility. Now in its second generation, the luxury coupe continues to break boundaries and deliver the thrills of driving to enthusiasts with more than 200,000 units delivered so far. In the local market, the BMW X4 comes in a single locally assembled xDrive30i M Sport trim, priced at RM 348,322 (on-the-road with SST exemption, without insurance). 

Undoubtedly, the coupe has a whole bunch of amazing features to entice buyers, but it misses out on a few important things as well. If you are thinking to make the X4 your new four-wheel companion, you can check out its pros and cons here.

Pros

Eye-catching athlete

The BMW X4 boasts muscular dynamics and a commanding presence on the road. On the front end, we can see a  larger BMW kidney grille flanked by adaptive LED headlights with an integrated high beam assistant. Complementing the striking grille is a long bonnet, low windscreen with acoustic glass, and a coupe-style roofline. At the rear, the sporty and dynamic appearance of the SUV is elevated by slim, wrap-around 3-D tail lights. Also, included in the kit are M Sport brakes and 20-inch M light-alloy Double-spoke rims in style 699M with mixed tyres.

The sportier proportions of the coupe are also impressive. Figuratively, the car measures 4,752 mm in length, 1,918 mm in width, 1,621 mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 2,864 mm. 

Sportier driving dynamics

Powering the X4 xDrive30i M Sport is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder gasoline engine that churns out a maximum power output of 252 hp and a peak torque of 350 Nm. The engine is mated to an 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission enabling faster gear changes. It comes with shift paddles on the steering wheel and a Launch Control function. On the performance front, the luxury coupe can hit the century sprint in 6.3 seconds on its way to achieve a top speed of 240 kmph. BMW claims combined fuel consumption of 7.8 litres per 100 km (12.8 kmpl).

With a best-in-class Cd value of 0.30, the BMW X4 comes with all-wheel drive, superior steering precision, agile handling, and significantly improved ride comfort.

Features galore

The feature-packed cabin of the X4 xDrive30i M Sport comes with a free-standing 10.25-inch Navigation System Professional with Touch Sensitive Control Display, mated to BMW ConnectedDrive, a head-up display, and voice control system. There is also a 12.3-inch Multifunctional Instrument Display with Black-Panel Technology. 

Included in the goodies is a three-zone air conditioning system with separate controls for the rear seats, a large Panorama Glass Roof, Harman Kardon 16-Speaker Surround Sound System, power-adjustable sports seats wrapped in Vernasca leather, M steering wheel, M door sills, “aluminium rhombic” trimmings, six airbags, rearview camera, cruise control with brake function, dynamic brake control, parking assistant and an attentiveness assistant. 

In addition, a driving assistant system is also available with lane departure warning, lane change warning, and front collision warning with brake intervention, crossing traffic warning rear and rear collision prevention.

Cons

Slightly cramped second row and boot space

Although the sloping roofline helps the coupe in standing out in the crowd, the styling has a downside. It not only results in slightly compromised headroom for the rear passengers but also leads to less boot space. 

No manual gearbox

Another deal-breaker aspect could be the unavailability of manual transmission as some of the enthusiasts like greater control over the vehicle. Shifting gears manually also has a safety advantage, especially in bad weather. 

Should You Buy One?

If you are looking for a car that makes a lasting first impression and price is not a concern, the BMW X4 is a tempting option. It is packed with high-end features inside and out and offers a sportier driving experience. And, if you don't mind the lack of manual gearbox and a little cramped rear space, the X4 xDrive30i M Sport is undoubtedly worth a go. 

Also read: BMW 330i M Sport vs Mercedes-Benz C300 AMG Line: Which German sports sedan should you choose?