BMW X4

Overview:

After setting the Australian auto market on fire, the BMW's X series is all set to ignite the Malaysian market as well. Showcased as a concept in Auto Shanghai in 2013, followed by its debut at the Geneva Motor Show, the BMW X4 xDrive 28i has debuted in Malaysia. Based on the platform of X3, the X4 is classed in a new segment of Sports Activity Coupe. This compact crossover SUV with coupe roofline comes in two version: the xDrive 28i and the xDrive 28i M Sport. The silhouette of the X4 is unique in itself with a muscular built and an instantly recognizable presence. The muscular bumpers and broad shoulders shows the presence of X trait in it. The sport leather steering wheel and sporty gear shifter creates a dynamic impression on one's mind. The Harman Kardon surround sound system packed in the M sport version delivers an experience of a concert hall. The Twinscroll turbocharger with valvetronic, double-VANOS and high precision injection all in the same engine helps unleash the brutal 245 hp between 5000 to 6500 rpm. With the ability to clinch a top speed of 232 km/h, this monstrous crossover is capable of reaching 100 km/h in just 6.4 seconds. The TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder 1997cc petrol engine is capable of delivering a peak torque of 350 Nm between 1250 to 4800 rpm. A full colored Head-Up Display projects every single driving information. The contact less opening of the tail gate is another new feature introduced in the X series. This is achieved by just waving the foot under the rear bumper and the sensor would respond accordingly. Comfort Access system equipped in the car enables the driver to start/stop the engine without using the key. BMW does not lack in the safety and security department as well. The crossover is equipped with driver, curtain,side as well as passenger airbags ensuring complete protection during collision. Apart from the standard ABS/EBD that are common for cars of this segment, it also has traction control and stability control system.

Mileage and Fuel Economy:

With the implementation of ECO PRO Mode to the vehicle there has been a considerable reduction in fuel economy by 20 percent. The energy management system in the vehicle includes the combined effect of electrical power steering, regenerative braking and star/stop function. Through the amalgamation of these technologies, BMW X4 has succeeded in achieving an overall mileage of 13.69 km/l.

Power:

Just like the other cars in the BMW X series, the X4 churns out a terrific 245 hp between 5000 to 6500 rpm and a maximum torque of 350 Nm between 1250-4800 rpm, all thanks to its 2.0-litre TwinPower Turbo 4 cylinder petrol engine, setting it apart from its rivals.

Acceleration and Pickup:

The excellent aerodynamics and 8-speed Steptronic sport transmission of the mighty X4 makes it reach a top speed of 232 km/h, and claims to grab the figure of 100 km/h in just 6.4 seconds which is an outcome of its Turbocharged 245 hp engine.

Exterior:

The elegant silhouette of the X4 itself creates a sense of uniqueness in the car. The broad haunches and the wide open air inlets in the front, gives a beastly look to the crossover. The sporty bumpers makes it the vehicle of the X genes. Bulgy wheel arches both on the rear as well as front adds to the spaciousness of the car. The chrome tinted exhaust lines in the rear adds some audacity to the compact crossover. The signature kidney grills on the nose is something that BMW never misses to add in any of its segment. LED head lamps touching the signature kidney grilles is the alteration that is done in the new crossover. A glance to the side gives us a clear evidence of a coupe trait in the new X4. The side lines flowing to the rear makes the crossover a bit more sleek.

Exterior Measurements:

The L X W X H dimensions of the crossover are 4671mm X 1881mm X 1624mm, with the wheelbase reaching a figure of 2810 mm. Broadness of the vehicle with a track width of 1616 mm makes it superior on the space front.

Interior:

The sporty leather interior of the new crossover gives a clear evidence of the perfection it is made with. Sport leather steering wheel and sporty gear shifter creates a dynamic imprint in ones mind. The ergonomically arranged control knobs and the large control display ensures maximum convenience to the driver. Broad styling of the crossover creates ample space to the driver as well as to the passengers. Though the rear bench may look like an accommodation for 2 due to the coupe roofline, but it can easily accommodate a total of 3 passengers with maximum comfort providing ample head and shoulder room. Dirt-repellent and water repellent, all weather floor mats are also available in the standard version.

Interior Comfort:

Apart from a couple of cup holders and cool storage areas the brand has also concentrated on the comfort of driver providing a couple of features like the tilt steering owing to which the driver can adjust the wheel according to his/her area of comfort. Paddle shift controls are also equipped, in order to have an effortless driving. The seats are electronically adjustable. Climate control in the car cocoons you in any harsh climate. The comfort access system ensures easy opening of the door as well as starting the engine without using the key. Ski and snowboard bags allows you to transport 4 pairs of skis or 3 snowboards without messing up the car.

Interior Measurements:

Despite of its coupe trait the X4 has plenty of space inside. With its standard 40:20:40 split folding rear seats the X4 has got a roomy characteristic all the way and can go up to a space hike ranging from 500 litres to 1,400 litres.

Engine and Performance:

Both the standard and the M sport versions have common engine traits. The amalgamation of Twin scroll turbocharger, double-VANOS and high precision injection in the same engine allows it to deliver a maximum power of 245 hp at 5,000-6,500 rpm. The twin power 4-cylinder 1997 cc petrol engine of the X4 makes it to boost out a maximum torque of 350 Nm at 1,250-4,500 rpm. 8-speed Steptronic sport transmission of the X4 makes it to complete the magnificent 100km/h in just 6.4 seconds. Reaching to a top speed of 232 km/h, the sport mode in the crossover is built to breath out maximum power.

Stereo and Accessories:

Harman Kardon Surround Sound System in the M sport package brings to you a theatrical experience. With a pack of 16 speakers- seven mid range, seven tweeters and two centre bass, the brand provides to you a quality sound that you would be delighted to experience. With original BMW accessories you can customize your X4 as per your style. An audio playback with built in speakers and monitor comforts you during long travels. The tablet DVD system has portable 7 inch screen which can be attached to headrest ports. The center console also comes with an efficient 8 inch screen.

Wheels:

The 19 inch M light alloy wheels in Double-spoke style 622 M available in the standard and M sport version has a tyre specification of 245/45 R19 at the front and 275/40 R19 to the rear.

Braking and Handling:

Equipped with ABS/EBD the brakes used in the X4 are ventilated disc type both at the rear as well as to the front. The combination of McPherson Strut suspension at front and Multi-link suspension to rear allows a calm and stable ride all through the journey. Variable sport steering with Servotronic allows a smooth and agile control over the vehicle making it achieve a turning radius of 6 m. BMW's xDrive four-wheel drive system ensures to cope with varied road conditions.

Safety and Security:

The compact crossover SUV comes with a couple of good safety factors that include airbags at driver, passenger and side locations. A couple of stability systems enables the car to encounter challenging road conditions. Parking sensors and reverse camera guides you to escape the hustle with in a fraction of seconds. Apart from these all the smart entry system allows easy access to the door. The reinforced aluminum structure of the X4 keeps it guarded from sudden impacts. Remote locking and engine immobilizer ensures a good percentage of security. The driving assistant feature provide lane departure warning and pedestrian warning systems. The stop&go function controls the speed of the vehicle during downhill. Active Cruise Control maintains a constant speed by automatically matching the speed of cars driving around it. All the above feature makes this crossover a segment leader.

Pros:

The interiors are pleasant
Handling is quite impressive
For a sports coupe, the mileage is pretty good

Cons:

Space could have been better managed
A bit bulky exterior
The console is not very luring