What's the news?
BMW has revealed in full its sportiest interpretation yet of the X4 SUV, badged 'M40i'. That number on the end indicates that this is not a full-on M car, but instead an M Performance vehicle, which is created under the mantra 'sporty credentials combined with everyday practicality'.
Exterior
The most obvious hint that you're looking at an X4 M40i from the front (and not one of the almost identical looking M Sport models) is the use of 'Ferric Grey' for detailing, as on other BMW M Performance vehicles such as the M235i Coupé. This metallic finish is found on the door mirrors, the kidney grilles up front and in the large outer air intakes in the front bumpers. It can also be seen on the tasty 20-inch alloy wheels fitted to the car in these pictures, though our information is that they're optional. At the rear, the only giveaway (other than the 'X4 M40i' badging) is the new exhaust system, which has a single round pipe on each side of the bumper.
Interior
Inside, there's a tasty looking M leather sports steering wheel with gearshift paddles and plenty of M badging, plus 'X4 M40i' emblazoned on the door sills and within the main instruments. Standard features include BMW's 'Professional' satnav and leather upholstery.
Mechanicals
Although the X4 M40i's engine borrows a few choice components from the BMW M4 Coupé, it has more in common with the 3.0-litre straight-six petrol unit found under the bonnet of the X4 xDrive35i. However, it has been modified to withstand 'more enthusiastic' use thanks to a forged steel crankshaft and a separate oil cooler. The boost pressure is higher and hence maximum power increases from the xDrive35i's unit's 306hp to 360hp, produced between 5,800- and 6,000rpm. Peak torque also jumps, from 400Nm to 465Nm, the latter on tap from just 1,350rpm all the way around to 5,250rpm. The 0-100km/h sprint takes a faintly ludicrous 4.9 seconds and top speed is limited to 250km/h. The official fuel consumption figure is 8.6 litres/100km and an emissions rating of 199g/km isn't bad considering the performance. The engine is bolted to BMW's eight-speed Steptronic automatic and power is distributed to all four wheels.
On top of all that there's a new sports exhaust with a bypass valve, plus an uprated chassis with firmer springs and anti-roll bars, increased camber on the front axle and adaptive damping as standard.
Anything else?
At the time of writing, no Irish market information is available, but given that BMW Ireland only offers diesel X4s on its pricelist we don't expect there to be a stampede of buyers wanting this range-topper... Hence, we presume that the X4 M40i will not officially go on sale in this part of the world.