BMW X4 M40i is the Performance Mini-SUV We Never Asked For

BOLD RIDE

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Posted by George Kennedy   

                             

 

It was only a matter of time. BMW loves to roll out M performance version of pretty much anything it makes, so you had to know that a version of the X4 compact crossover was going to hit the streets wearing the letter once reserved for only the most pure performance machines. This is no bare-bones E30 M3, though–this is the 2016 BMW X4 M40i.

 

The X4 M40i joins the Audi SQ5 and upcoming GLC450 AMG in the head-scratchingly burgeoning mini-performance-SUV segment. The base vehicle is the X4, a model already of questionable utility or purpose, and fits it with a tuned-up version of the 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six. It makes 355 horsepower and 343 pound feet of toque, which represents an increase of 55 horsepower and 43 pound feet.

Power is sent through an 8-speed transmission to xDrive all-wheel drive. The full setup allows the X4 M40i to get from zero to sixty mph in just 4.7 seconds. Compare that to the X4 35i, which used to be the quickest variant, at 5.2 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 130 mph, but can be increased to 150 mph.

 

The M designation is more than just being about straight-line power. The M40i provides improved cornering with the help of increased front wheel camber, stiffer springs and stronger anti-roll bars. The M40i also features 19-inch wheels, with the option of 20’s.

No word on pricing or availability. A BMW X4 35i starts at just under $50,000, so if you want a high-performance version of the X4 cute-ute, be ready to hand over likely $55,000-$60,000. When we get official word on pricing and availability, we’ll pass it along.