2023 BMW X4 Review: Style Uber Alles
The BMW X4 is yet another example of the modern phenomenon that is coupe-style SUVs. This compact luxury crossover SUV is the vehicle you go for if you love the car-like handling characteristics of the BMW X3 but you prefer a shapelier body design. Sure, you lose out on practicality; there's less rear headroom and reduced cargo space, but none of that matters when you're chasing style. Under the hood, the range-topping X4 M40i features a powerful turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder that churns out 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The interior is typically well built, and the tech and safety levels are on point too. The X4 tries to combine fashion and practicality in one package and goes up against competitors such as the Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe and athletic Porsche Macan. In this BMW X4 review, we see if style is enough to convince the average buyer.
What's the Price of the 2023 BMW X4?
Luxury at this level will cost you some money, but the X4 won't completely break the bank. The X4 xDrive30i starts with an MSRP of $53,400 in the USA, which excludes tax and registration. Both BMW X4 trims are also subject to a destination fee of $995. Stepping up to the more powerful M40i will see the price of the 2023 BMW X4 climb to $64,650.
BMW X4 competitors like the Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe start at $52,500 (2022 pricing), while the Porsche Macan starts at $57,500. As you can see, the MSRP of the BMW X4 is very similar to its main rivals.
2023 X4 Exterior
Dimensions
| Length | Wheelbase | Height | Max Width | Front Width | Rear Width | Curb Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 187.6 in | 112.8 in | 63.8 in | 75.5 in | 63.8 in | 65.6 in | 4,178.0 lbs |
2023 X4 Performance
2023 BMW X4 Handling and Driving Impressions
The identity crisis that is the exterior of the BMW X4 flows onto the road. This car is clearly an SUV-type creation, and it has the curb weight to prove it, yet at the same time, it handles like a much smaller and lighter car. The 2023 X4, in its base configuration, is an impressive machine; it offers an excellent balance between soaking up road imperfections and delivering a confidence-inspiring drive that borders on that of a premium sedan. For those that want a sharper, more driver-focused experience behind the wheel, we'd suggest going with the M40i. This trim features adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers, variable sport steering, and M Sport brakes with blue calipers, making it the more convincing driver's car.
2023 X4 Interior
2023 X4 Trunk and Cargo Space
Warranty
| Basic | Drivetrain | Corrosion | Roadside Assistance | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 Years / 50,000 Miles | 4 Years / 50,000 Miles | 12 Years / Unlimited Miles | 4 Years / Unlimited Miles | 3 Years / 36,000 Miles |
Verdict: Is the 2023 BMW X4 A Good SUV?
The premium compact SUV segment is filled with several competent offerings, but what sets the BMW X4 apart from most is its evident focus on looking good. The BMW X3 is just as good a car and is even more practical, but the X4 is undeniably better-looking. The new BMW X4 SUV sacrifices rear headroom and cargo space for this privilege but still provides more cargo space and overall practicality than the Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe. The X4 also has a range of excellent engines, and we think the six-cylinder mill in the M40i is an absolute gem. On the road, the X4 offers great road manners and is especially fun to drive in M40i specification, but it isn't as driver-focused as the Porsche Macan. On the inside, the BMW's interior has a premium feel and is well built, but it can come across as a bit demure to some. Either way, it's filled with tech, and there's a solid list of safety features included as standard. If style trumps practicality, as it often does in the world of premium cars, then the X4 isn't a bad choice.
What 2023 BMW X4 Model Should I Buy?
The BMW X4 is not a sports car, so we'd save the money and go for the xDrive30i. With 248 horses under the hood, this SUV will be quick enough for most, and with the money you save from dodging the M40i, you can spend a few bucks on making this model even more luxurious. If we had the money, we'd spend it on the Premium Package, which includes heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and comfort keyless access. We'd also go for the premium Harman Kardon sound system. With these options and the destination fee, the total works out to $56,340.