2019 BMW X4 revealed

BMW has taken the covers off its second-generation X4 fastback SUV, announcing more space and improved aesthetics for the X6’s baby brother.

Built on the brand-new bones of the BMW X3 SUV, the BMW X4 range will have seven models from launch, including the x4 xDrive20i, xDrive30i, M40i, xDrive20d, xDrive25d, xDrive30d, and M40d.

The M40i flagship will be powered by a 265kW/500Nm 3.0-litre turbocharged six-cylinder capable of thrusting the car to 100km/h from a standstill in a claimed 4.8-seconds. Meanwhile its diesel-chugging counterpart, the M40d, will crank out a stout 240kW and 680Nm and zip to triple-digit speeds in 4.9 seconds.

At the opposite end of the powertrain spectrum, the xDrive20i will generate 135kW/290Nm from a four-cylinder 2.0-litre turbo petrol. Diesel engines range from the base xDrive20d 140kW/400Nm 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder, through to the aforementioned M40d’s 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbo.

The SUV ‘coupe’ (termed a “Sports Activity Vehicle” by BMW, and few else) has grown between generations, with an increase of 81 millimetres in overall length, a 54 millimetres longer wheelbase, an extra 37 millimetres of width and a 3-millimetre drop in height. BMW also claims the new X4 has an ideal 50:50 weight distribution.

With the current X4 suffering from an awkwardly top-heavy design, the squatter proportions and modest height clip should help it channel more of the larger X6’s brutish look.

Enlarged kidney grilles are the most striking design change, with the X4 receiving an ‘evolution not revolution’ makeover. Despite the similarities and the relative youth of the current X4 (which only launched in 2014), the 2019 X4 is entirely new.

Customers will be able to spec the X4 in one of three different style lines: xLine, M Sport X, or M Sport – each coming with a model-specific 19-inch alloy wheel. M Sport X? It’s a new designation for BMW, and the X4 will be the first to flaunt it. Think of it as a regular M Sport pack, but with more of an off-road slant to its styling.

Inside the cabin, the X4’s infotainment system will feature BMW’s latest iDrive6 system.

There is no word on what models will be sold in Australia as yet, nor any indication of when we can expect them. However, with the current X4 already on sale here and selling in respectable volumes (it outsold Benz’s GLC Coupe in 2017), you can be certain the X4 M40i will be at the top of BMW Australia’s wish list.