BMW X4 2018 uncovered ahead of Geneva

BMW has raced out the second-generation version of its X4 mid-size crossover – set to make its public debut at the Geneva motor show in March – hot on the heels of launching the mechanically related X3 wagon in Australia in November.

With a local launch earmarked for June, BMW is expected to start deliveries of the new-generation X4 in the third-quarter of this year.

Looks wise, the new X4 boasts a sleeker body style and beefier stance compared with its X3 cousin, which more closely aligns it to the bigger models in the Bimmer line-up such as the X5 and X6.

The biggest changes in second-generation form however, are dimensional, with the new X4 now longer and wider, shorter and lower than before.

The German crossover has grown 81mm from bumper-to-bumper to measure 4752mm, and the overall width has also been increased by 37mm; now 1918mm all up. BMW also stretched the wheelbase 54mm to a total 2864mm, and dropped the height by 3mm to now measure 1621mm tall.

Pricing will be announced closer to the X4’s launch, but expect around a ,000 premium over the X3.

This translates to 27mm more legroom for rear-seat passengers, an extra 25 litres of luggage space (525L in total), and, according to BMW, better handling.

By way of new aluminum and high-strength steel components, BMW has shaved 15 to 50kg off the X4’s weight, depending on the variant, and with a 50/50 weight distribution, it would stand to reason that the new X4 steers and grips better than its predecessor.

European-spec models will get the same three petrol and four diesel powertrains as the X3, but BMW Australia is yet to reveal such information for the local market.

The Australian X3 range kicks off with a 140kW/400Nm 2.0-litre turbo-diesel, moves up to an 185kW/350N turbo petrol and 190kW/620Nm oil-burning six pot, before topping out with the 265kW/500Nm inline six petrol engine.

Pricing will be announced closer to the X4’s launch, but expect around a $10,000 premium over the X3 that starts at $64,800 before on-roads.

Would the extra space sway you to buy an X4 over the X3? Tell us what you think in the comment section below.