BMW are aiming to create a niche with a small 4x4 off-roader coupe. Aiming for less sales than the X3, the X4 will be more adventurous with its looks, influenced by the X-Coupe concept seen in 2001 at the Detroit Motor show. Designed to target affluent, design conscious buyers looking for a life-style vehicle. A long nose, low roofline lead to chunky rear wheel arches, which hint at the X4’s crossover nature, while the rear glass hatch covers a substantial load area for a car of this size. Underneath it uses the conventional mechanics of the X3. This means the innovative xDrive 4WD system will delivery the power to the wheel with the most traction in slippery conditions. Smaller and lighter than the X3, it will be more manoeuvrable, while still maintaining the SUV’s off-road ability. The X4 will also benefit from the latest range of valvetronic engines in 2.2 and 3.0-litre petrol, while diesel will have the choice of 2.0 and 3.0 litre Turbo’s. A M-Power version will not be made, instead the flagship will be a 4.0-litre petrol V8 set to appear in the next generation M3. Transmissions will be offered in 5 and 6 speed automatics, as well as manual gearbox with 6 speed.
The X4 will be the first coupe off-roader offered by a mainstream manufacturer therefore, will have lack of direct competition. Due on sale the end of 2007, the X4 should debut at the Detroit Motor Show as BMW predicts the US will be a lucrative market for this vehicle.
The X4 will be the first coupe off-roader offered by a mainstream manufacturer therefore, will have lack of direct competition. Due on sale the end of 2007, the X4 should debut at the Detroit Motor Show as BMW predicts the US will be a lucrative market for this vehicle.
