BMW introduces X4 Sports Activity Coupe

BMW confirmed the rumored new X4 Sports Activity Coupe, sort of a smaller BMW X6. According to BMW, the X4, like the X6, combines the performance and capability of a sports-activity vehicle with coupe styling. U.S. versions have a choice of two turbo engines. The xDrive28i has BMW's 240-hp, 2.0-liter four cylinder and costs $45,625 (including destination and handling). The top-of-the-line xDrive35i wears a $48,925 sticker (again including destination and handling) and has the 300-hp, 3.0-liter straight six. Both models have an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddles as well as xDrive, BMW's all-wheel drive system. The xDrive35i should hit 60 mph in 5.2 seconds, the xDrive28i in six seconds flat.

BMW

The 2015 X4 makes its world debut at the New York International Auto Show in April and production begins this spring exclusively at BMW's Spartanburg, S.C. plant.

At 184.3 inches long, the X4 is a half-inch longer than the X3 and 1.5 inches lower. The large front air intakes and LED fog lights below the headlights are meant to lend the X4 a more muscular appearance and lower the visual center of gravity. The roofline reaches its highest point over the front seats before dropping down toward the (power) tailgate.

The interior is trimmed in leather, aluminum and wood. The driver and front passenger sit 0.8 inch lower than in the X3 and the rear passengers 1.1 inches lower. There's 17.7-49.4 cubic feet of cargo space. Standard equipment includes a sports leather steering wheel with paddles, variable sport steering, performance control and rear park distance control. Performance control uses the stability control system to send power to the outside rear wheel in corners for better traction, turn-in and directional stability. M Sport trim adds an aero package and sportier suspension as well as its own steering wheel and 19- or 20-inch aluminum wheels.

BMW

The X4 has an ECO PRO mode and coasting function, both designed to reduce fuel consumption. It adjusts all the on-board systems for maximum fuel efficiency. The coasting function shuts off the fuel when you take your foot off the gas. The X4 also has stop/start.

Several other systems meant to provide more active safety are available, including active cruise control, pedestrian and collision warning, and lane departure warning. Active blind-spot detection and a rearview camera with surround view are optional, as is parking assist; it steers into parallel parking spaces after alerting the driver to a large-enough space.

By Wes Raynal