BMW X4 M40i hit or miss?

Last year I had the privilege of sampling the BMW X3 M40i which I absolutely adored. With the addition of an M badge on the back and an M-Performance tweaked engine under the bonnet, the car produced an engaging and thrilling experience. So what about the BMW X4 M40i then? One would think that it will offer the same experience seeing as though it is essentially the same recipe, right?

I am not convinced and here’s why. I enjoy the styling of the traditional SUV designs produced by the German automaker, like the X3 and X5, even the recently launched X7 with its noticeably large, kidney grille. However, I feel that their coupe-like offerings such as the X4 and X6 are not as pleasant to the eyes. This could be a result of me having issues with my eyes and require the use of contact lenses, nevertheless, I found the new X4 M40i lacking in terms of styling.

The front-end looks very similar to that of the new and locally built X3, it is muscular, square and modern and the front doors also look like those found on the new X3, both qualities that I like but as you move towards the rear, I become doubtful. The updated X4 does look much better than BMW’s first attempt, but personally, I believe the rear end is too upright. The side profile looks fine but viewed from other perspectives it tends to look odd. A plus point for me is, once opened, the boot reveals 525-litres of luggage space and increases to around 1 430-litres when you fold the rear passenger seats down.

Once inside of the X4, things get much better. My test unit was fitted with a caramel-like interior colour, silver inlays and a contrasting black dashboard. The look and feel of the interior are, I will affirm – unrivalled within the segment. The reason behind that statement, the Audi Q5 interior, although really good feels a bit clinical while the Mercedes-Benz GLC interior feels a bit dated. The technology inside is also quite noteworthy. Wireless Apple CarPlay and a wireless charger are just some of the standout features. I was also able to employ active-lane keep assist and blind-spot alert which are helpfull safety features.

Now what about that M40i badge, is it a 4.0-litre? In short, no, the BMW X4 M40i is powered by a twin-power turbo 3.0-litre straight six. This powertrain develops a respectable 265 kW and 500 N.m of torque, distributing power to all four wheels via a smooth 8-speed steptronic gearbox. The power delivery is impressive and accelerates like a bat out of hell, 0-100km is achieved in around 4.8 seconds. Offering all the pops and bangs that one would expect from a vehicle of its nature, it is the auditory experience providing the heart racing experience.

The ride quality is surprisingly very compliant given the sporty characteristics. In comfort mode, the M40i quiets down and becomes somewhat civilized. However, it is only in the Sport+ mode which unlocks all of the BMW’s potential. After my week-long stint with the car I can conclude that I really enjoyed it, it is fun to drive but retains a serious undertone which needs to be respected. I will confess that I am not a fan of the styling but for those who are, I will find it to be an overall very pleasing package.

If you can afford the R1 143 679 price tag, then the M40i will most definitely bring a smile to your face, if you just want a quality SUV that looks different to the rest in its segment, the 20d or 30d offerings from BMW will do the job just fine.