2019 BMW X4 Expands With More Interior Space, Tech
CARS.COM — BMW’s lineup of “sports activity coupes” (read: fancy way to say SUV) gets another update with a complete redesign of the X4 for 2019. This is the second generation of the X4, which originally debuted for the 2015 model year. It keeps much of the same shape and aesthetic, with a rearward-swept fastback shape that makes it look like a cross between an SUV and a wagon/hatchback. The X4 is closely related to the X3, which got a redesign for 2018.
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Two versions of the X4 will be offered: the xDrive30i and the sportier M40i. Most of the exciting changes to the X4 happen on the inside, where it takes a big leap forward in technology.
Exterior
There are some nip-and-tuck trim changes along the exterior that add a little visual flair along the sides. The X4 has also grown slightly: It’s now 3 inches longer and 1.4 inches wider. Full LED headlights (including daytime running lights) and taillights are standard on both models.
M40i models get some unique, sporty touches, as well, with high-gloss black accents, different front and rear diffusers, and side skirts.
Interior
The cabin has been thoroughly modernized with a new look and added technology. A 10.25-inch touchscreen that sits atop the dash is standard. The new X4 also features standard navigation and the newest iDrive system, which includes improved voice recognition. The navigation comes with a few extra goodies, including an on-street parking information system that will show colors indicating the probability of finding parking in select areas. Gesture control is also newly available. An available head-up display is now 75 percent larger — the largest available in this class, according to BMW.
The options list also includes a wireless implementation of Apple CarPlay. That means you won’t have to plug in your phone to use the smartphone-mirroring system, which we’re big fans of.
BMW says the added length and width of the X4 means there’s more occupant room than before, and the climate control system now has three zones instead of two. There’s 18.5 cubic feet of cargo room behind the rear seats, which expands to 50.5 cubic feet with the 40/20/40-split folding rear seat down.
Under the Hood
The two trims are also broken up by their powertrains. The xDrive30i features an engine that’s new to the X4 but used widely in other BMW models, a 248-horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that makes 258 pounds-feet of torque. The M40i has a carryover engine, a 355-hp, turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder that makes 365 pounds-feet of torque. An eight-speed transmission and all-wheel drive are standard for both trims, though in the M40i it has a rear-wheel-drive bias for a sportier feel. An M Sport suspension is standard for both models.
Safety
Standard safety equipment has also expanded to now include forward autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian detection and speed limit information. The X4 will also offer adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, blind spot warnings, and cross-traffic alerts front and rear.
The 2019 X4 will hit dealerships in July with a starting price of $51,445 for the xDrive30i and $61,445 for the M40i; all prices include a $995 destination charge.
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