What is this?
Both the BMW X3 and the X4 received a facelift in 2021, a renewal operation that also refreshes the sporty M versions. In the first place we are talking about the new headlights, finely squeezed ones that seem to accentuate the reworked radiator grille. There are no rabbit teeth, as is the case with the new BMW M3 and M4. But the inevitable kidneys have grown. On the M versions they get double bars.
The BMW X4 M also gets a new front bumper, with aerodynamically optimized cooling slots for better ventilation of both the drivetrain and the brakes. But those aesthetic adjustments are hard to see on our pitch-black test sample. Well, from the cool pose and the rear diffuser adorned with two double exhausts, you can immediately see that you are dealing with an M variant. The black design keys and the sound of the exhaust line give away that it is a Competition.
The changes are also limited inside. The facelift of the X3 and X4 gets an upgraded interior with a renewed infotainment system, in the BMW X4 M Competition that results in a central display of 12.3 inches. The digital counter part, also 12.3 inches in size, will also have more options. Of course, the standard equipment of the M top version is a lot more generous than that on the less powerful model variants: sports seats with illuminated M logo, an audio system from Harman Kardon and you name it… The M sports steering wheel with thick rim and red keyboard shortcuts need no introduction anymore.
What is changing?
The BMW X4 M was the first model with the new S58 power source, the pressure-fed six-in-line that would subsequently create a furore in the BMW M3 and M4. In the Competition, the 3-litre block is good for a peak power of 510 hp, the maximum torque has now been increased from 600 to 650 Nm – by means of a new crankshaft. That power is put on the four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. The M xDrive all-wheel drive comes with an actively controlled differential lock between the rear wheels, but still doesn’t have a 2WD drift mode. Well, even without it you burn rubber faster than your tire center can say.
No lack of speed. Aided by an electronic launch function, the new BMW X4 M Competition sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds, still 0.3 seconds faster than before the facelift. The top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h, but shifted back to 285 km/h if you pay extra for the M Driver’s Package. And on the road, the BMW X4 M feels exactly as the numbers suggest: damn fast.
Yes, you feel that the BMW X4 M puts more than 2 tons on the scales. Indeed, the petrol flies through as soon as you kick the in-line six on its tail. And of course a BMW M4 Competition Coupé drives a lot better than this SUV. But its natural balance, aided by both software and hardware, somehow ensures that you get all that power put on the road anyway. You need some space to unleash its full potential, but the reward is commensurate.
Conclusion
The facelift does not add much to the BMW X4 M Competition, although it did not disturb us for a second on the way. Perhaps because we were busy keeping this wildly pulling beast under control. Because despite the SUV body, this is a real M, with a willing engine, fantastic performance and a playful chassis. Packaged in a body that you can use every day.
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