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A new BMW X4 crossover debuts at the New York International Automobile Show this April just ahead of its spring on sale date. Claimed to be a mid-size premium vehicle, the latest Bimmer will be unveiled during the show’s press preview days.
Like the X6 before it, the BMW claims the X4 combines performance and capability with “the style and elegance of traditional coupe.” In reality – once you get away from such marketing babble – it is a 4-door hatchback.
There no doubt about the premium price, though. In the U.S., the X4 will be offered with a choice of two turbocharged engines. The xDrive28i has a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $45,625, including destination and handling. It comes with a 240 horsepower, 2-liter four-cylinder engine that produces peak torque of 260 lb.-ft. (350 Nm) and a claimed zero-to-60 mph time of six seconds flat.
The pricier xDrive35i, MSRP of $48,925 including destination and handling, has a 300 horsepower 3-liter, inline six that has long been in production. Maximum output is between 5,800 and 6,400 rpm and peak torque of 300 lb.-ft. (400 Nm) is between 1,200 to 5,000 rpm. A zero-to- 60 mph acceleration time is said to be 5.2 seconds.
Both X4 models include an 8-speed auto transmission with steering-wheel shift paddles, as well as all wheel drive.
The X4’s body is 1.5 inches (37 mm) lower than that of the BMW X3. The driver and front passenger sit 0.8 in. (20 mm) lower and the rear passengers 1.1 in. (28 mm) lower. The rear seat bench comes with the type of continuously molded side bolsters normally only provided by two individual seats, but offers space for three passengers. Load capacity at 17.7- 49.4 cu. ft. can be used in a variety of ways with the standard 40:20:40-split rear bench.
There is also a standard power tailgate. It is available with the optional “Smart Opener,” which allows it to be opened with a movement of the foot.
All X4s include BMW’s iDrive Controller and central display. When equipped with the optional and pricey on-board navigation system, the new BMW X4 receives the new iDrive Controller with touchpad that allows drivers or passengers to use their finger to write letters for text inputs, such as a navigation destination, for example.
X4 will built in the U.S. Since 1994, the South Carolina plant has undergone four major expansions and produced 6 different BMW models and their variants – 318i, Z3, Z4, X5, X6, and X3. Employment has grown from 500 in 1994 to more than 7,000 today. (See AutoInformed.com on: BMW to Spend $900 Million on South Carolina Plant for New X4 )
The Auto Show runs from April 18-27, 2014 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in Manhattan.
