2015 BMW X4 SUV unveiled | video

BMW has expanded its niche-busting range of models with the unveiling of the new X4 SUV in Geneva this week. Like the bigger X5-based X6 SUV, the X4 takes the conventionally-bodied X3 and adds a sloping roofline and sharpened styling to create what BMW describes as a Sports Activity Coupe.

Teased in thinly-disguised concept form at last year’s Shanghai motor show, the X4 will go head to head with the Range Rover Evoque, Mercedes-Benz GLA, Audi Q3 and the upcoming production version of the Lexus NX concept.

The production X4 rides on the same 2810mm wheelbase as the X3, but is 14mm longer overall at 4671mm, 36mm lower at 1624mm and the same 1881mm overall width.

Helping passengers fit within the 36mm lower roofline is a 20mm lower front seating position and 28mm in the rear, and unlike the bigger X6 there’s standard seating for three in the rear. The rear bench splits 40/20/40 and cargo capacity is just 50-litres shy of the X3 at 500-litres. 

European X4 models are all-wheel drive and are available with either 20i, 28i or 35i petrol and 20d, 30d and 35d diesel drivetrains, but Australian specifications will have to wait until its local arrival later this year. The X4’s pricing is expected to sit above the X3’s $59,000-$76,500 local lineup.

This reporter is on Twitter: @Mal_Flynn

Watch the desktop version of the BMW X4 launch video here.