2022 BMW X4 M

Explaining the 2022 BMW X4 M to the uninitiated is no simple task. The X4 is based on the X3, BMW's best-selling crossover model, but swaps the X3's conventional roofline for one described as coupe-inspired. The X4 M is the highest performing distillation of this concept in the luxury compact crossover segment, bundling coupe style with crossover practicality. Borrowing the same twin-turbocharged inline-six engine found in the M3 Sedan and M4 Coupe, this engine comes in two flavors producing up to 503 horsepower, making the X4 M a nuclear-powered family carrier.

With a fresh face for 2022, the X4 M directly competes with the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 Coupe and Porsche Macan GTS. The Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio also springs to mind here, though it more directly rivals the X3 M. We drove the BMW X4 M when it first arrived for the 2020 model year, and our most glaring complaint went to the overly firm suspension. BMW's engineers say it took customer feedback into account, and the 2022 facelift should address our concerns about the stiff ride. After being handed the keys to a 2022 X4 M for a week, we can say our criticism has softened, but not entirely.

Sharing its face with the X3 M and a sloping roofline that is reminiscent of the X6, the X4 M is a sporty and purposeful SUV. The grille is now larger than before but stops just short of being called vulgar (like the M4 and iX), while the slimmer LED headlights look sharper than the 2021 model's. The vertical front air intakes are perhaps a bit overdone, but the X4 M is positioned as a high-performance, emotional purchase, so these design choices aren't a shock. Plus, those vents are functional to keep the engine cool. At the back, there are long, sleek taillight clusters between a subtle M rear spoiler and not-so-subtle quad-exit tailpipes. 20-inch alloy wheels, Shadowline exterior trim, an aerodynamic kit, and a power panoramic moonroof are all standard. The optional Competition Package includes larger 21-inch wheels and extended Shadowline exterior trim.

The X4 M is designated as a compact luxury SUV. It's not small, but neither is it as large or tricky to park as an X6. Its dimensions include a length of 187.5 inches, making it 7.5 inches shorter than the X6 M. The X4 M measures 75.9 inches in width, 63.8 inches in height, and its wheelbase spans 112.8 inches. The SUV's curb weight is 4,597 pounds and the weight distribution is a perfect 50/50. That's not light, but it ceases to be an issue with so much power underfoot.

The X4 M can now be specified in four new colors for the 2022 model year. These are Sao Paulo Yellow, as we tested it, and three metallics including Carbon Black, Brooklyn Grey, and Marina Bay Blue. The metallics all carry an extra charge of $550 but the yellow is free. The only other no-cost color is Alpine White, while the metallic range includes Black Sapphire, Dark Graphite, and Toronto Red. As mentioned, any metallic color will cost you $550. We think the X4 M looks best in Toronto Red, and even better with the optional 21-inch wheels in Jet Black.

For 2022, BMW saw fit to make the X4 M even quicker than it was before, not that it was slow last year. The quicker 0-60 time comes courtesy of increased torque outputs. The 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine now produces 473 horsepower and 457 lb-ft of torque as standard, or 503 hp/479 lb-ft if you go for the Competition model. That's a 13 lb-ft increase on the base model and a substantial 37 lb-ft jump for the Competition. As usual, all that power is transferred to the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system, biasing power rearward. The standard X4 M will now complete the 0 to 60 sprint in 3.9 seconds, down from 4.1 seconds previously. For the Competition, the sprint time drops from four seconds to just 3.7. It's quicker than competitors like the pricier Porsche Macan GTS which needs 4.1 seconds when equipped with the Sport Chrono package. Both the Alfa Romeo Stelvio QV and Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 Coupe are quicker on paper, but we'd chalk that up to BMW being conservative on its numbers. The X4 M will eventually hit an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph, or 177 mph with the optional M Driver's package equipped.

The 3.0-liter turbocharged S58 six-cylinder engine has impressed us through all the years we've had access to it, and now it has been retuned by BMW to generate more torque this year. The standard model makes 473 hp and 457 lb-ft of torque, up from 442 lb-ft previously. For the X4 M Competition, the gains are even better. It now produces 503 hp and 479 lb-ft, the latter figure up from 442 lb-ft last year as well. Changes made to the six-pot this year include the use of the forged lightweight crankshaft from the M3 and M4. A fairly high red line of 7,200 rpm - at least for a turbocharged engine - means that you can enjoy the best of both worlds in the X4 M, as we discovered on our test drive.

This engine provides plenty of torque low-down in the rev range, but the acceleration doesn't die off when you reach the redline. Whether you prefer to be wafted down the road by a wave of low-down torque or are in the mood to thrash the six-pot, it'll respond to both desires with aplomb. As an added bonus, the S58 engine barely sounds turbocharged, reminding us of the raspy note from the E46 M3's naturally aspirated S54 engine.

The engine is still linked to an eight-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters and launch control. Sport Mode eliminates what little turbo lag there is lower in the revs, and the X4 M's ability to get up to speed on the highway or pass slower traffic is deeply impressive. BMW offers three modes for the transmission alone, letting drivers choose between smooth shifts or razor quick changes. The transmission approaches dual-clutch levels of shifting speeds, yet is smooth and unobtrusive when left to do its own thing.

No one can question the X4 M's performance credentials. This family crossover can approach speeds that just 20 years ago were the preserve of supercars, both in a straight line and through the corners. Unfortunately, there's a price to pay for that face-stretching handling; the ride is brutal. BMW's engineers tell us the X3 M and X4 M are softer for the 2022 model year, and they are not lying. Yes, the suspension no longer makes our head bounce around uncomfortably, but it's still not what we'd call compliant. We highly recommend test driving the X4 M on a rough stretch of road before you buy. In the Comfort suspension setting, the car can lull you into thinking the ride is tolerable on smooth highways. Put the suspension into Sport Plus and run it down a cobblestone road; if you hate it, we think the lesser X4 M40i could be right for you.

Like most modern M cars, the X4 M overwhelms its driver with endless customization options. There are Comfort, Sport, and Sport Plus modes for the steering feel and suspension, Efficient, Sport, and Sport Plus settings for the engine, and two modes for the AWD system. That doesn't even include the three transmission modes and the active sports exhaust system. Setting it up perfectly takes some time, but you can then save your ideal settings onto one of two red M buttons on the wheel. We had our M1 button set in the sportiest modes for everything except the suspension, which we left in full comfort.

With the AWD system set to sport, the traction control shuts off, allowing the X4 M to perform impressive tail slides. The front wheels reel you in right before making a big mistake, making it easy to drive the X4 M quickly without fear of getting it wrong. Aside from the bouncy ride, our only other complaints address the steering and the brakes. While sharp and precise, BMW's steering is less communicative than Alfa Romeo or Porsche. As for the brakes, they can bring the X4 M down to a stop in a big hurry, but they can sometimes feel grabby in stop-and-go traffic.

Despite the extra performance delivered by the 2022 BMW X4 M, it actually returns slightly better gas mileage than last year's model. That said, it's no economy champ. The 2022 model will return 15/20/17 mpg city/highway/combined according to official EPA ratings, a 1 mpg increase across all cycles relative to the 2021 version. We only averaged 14.2 mpg during a week of driving. The 17.2-gallon gas tank will enable a range of around 292 miles in mixed driving conditions, but that'll drop to around 258 miles if you mostly do city driving.

The improvements to the X4 M's interior are immediately evident when you slide into the M sport seats. There's a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen display that is positioned above new ventilation outlets and new controls for the climate control system. On the center console, there are new controls inherited from the latest M3 and M4. BMW loves offering multiple driving modes and settings, but the two M steering wheel buttons simplify matters somewhat. Quality remains a highlight of this cabin, something BMW has done consistently well for some time now. And, while an X3 has more rear headroom, the X4 is still quite spacious. M front sport seats with power bolsters, a panoramic moonroof, multi-zone climate control, and an M-specific digital gauge cluster are just a few of the many standard features.

Just like the X3 M on which it's based, the BMW X4 M is strictly a five-seater vehicle with no option for a third row. Even if BMW offered one, occupants in the third row would need to have their heads amputated. The X4 M is what BMW calls a Sports Activity Coupe, meaning the rear roofline is sloped like a two-door coupe. This has a noticeable impact on interior space. Front legroom is slightly longer in the X4 M versus the X3 M, but headroom is reduced by over an inch in the front seats and the rear. Getting into the X4 M's rear seat is more difficult than a conventional SUV since the roofline is so low. Rear legroom is reduced by over an inch as well. Rear visibility is impacted too, meaning it's not just the back-seat passengers that suffer for the driver's design choices. If you value passenger volume over exterior styling, the BMW X3 M is the more logical choice.

The X4 M's excellent perceived quality isn't misleading. The materials not only look good, but the cabin is genuinely well screwed together and free of annoying squeaks and rattles. BMW has also used softer plastics even lower down in places that you won't often touch. An Anthracite headliner, carbon fiber trim, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel are standard. By default, the seats are finished in Black Vernasca leather, but the dark environment is lifted by silver accents and colorful M stitching on the steering wheel. For $1,000 more, you can upgrade to extended Merino leather upholstery, an option that automatically adds nicer M sport seats for $950. The color choices here are Black, Tartufo, Adelaide Grey/Black, and Sakhir Orange/Black. Black Alcantara with Black Merino leather and Midrand Beige contrast stitching is the final upholstery option, but it requires the Competition Package so adds a hefty $7,000 to the price.

Besides the standard carbon fiber, you can specify Fine Wood open-pored Ash Grain, Smoke Grey Aluminum Rhombicle, or Individual Piano Black Finish inlays.

At 18.5 cubic feet, the X4 M doesn't have a huge trunk by general SUV standards. That's over 10 cubes less than you'd get in the more conventionally-styled X3 M, so you'll have to decide how much you value form over function. You won't struggle to accommodate a week's worth of groceries or a good couple of carry-on suitcases, though, so the X4 is hardly a chore to live with. With the 40/20/40-split folding rear seats folded, cargo space grows to 50.5 cubes, greatly trailing the X3 M with 62.7 cubes.

Interior storage space is pretty good as well. Dual cupholders are provided for both front and rear occupants, as is a well-sized front-seat center console. Door bins are provided front and rear, and there's a locking glovebox.

As it sits on top of the BMW X4 food chain, the X4 M comes fully loaded with comfort and convenience features from the outset. Both M front sport seats have two-way power side bolsters and three-stage heating. For the driver, there's a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster with M-specific graphics as well as a memory system for the seat and exterior mirror positions. A multi-zone climate control system keeps the cabin comfortable no matter what's happening outside, or you can choose to let fresh air in via the power panoramic sunroof. The multi-color ambient lighting system gives the interior a sophisticated atmosphere at night. The X4 M also comes with an advanced memory key, push-button ignition, rain-sensing windshield wipers, a power tailgate, and a universal garage door opener.

In the wrong hands, over 500 hp can quickly get you into trouble, so it's encouraging that the X4 M comes with multiple safety features. Included as standard are a rearview camera, front/rear parking sensors, active blind-spot detection, lane departure warning, and forward collision warning. Digging into the options list reveals add-ons like a head-up display, heated rear seats, and BMW's gimmicky but crowd-pleasing gesture controls.

Though it does not have BMW's latest iDrive 8 software found in the iX and i4 electric cars, the X4 M is far from outdated in the dashboard. BMW iDrive 7 is still quite advanced, with modern features such as wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto; the latter can even display maps in the head-up display. Other cool features include Amazon Alexa integration, remote access via the My BMW app, updated BMW Maps with Connected Parking and improved real-time navigation traffic data, plus gesture controls as part of an optional package. A Harman Kardon surround sound system comes standard on the X4 M, with 16 speakers and a 600-watt amplifier.

Among compact luxury SUVs, J.D. Power rated the 2022 BMW X4 highest with a score of 86 of out 100. This includes a stellar 89/100 rating for quality and reliability. The X4 M is obviously a more complex machine than the non-M X4s, but it's clear that the X4 is a quality product. At the time of writing, the NHTSA listed two recalls for the 2022 X4 M for relatively minor issues including a non-illuminated license plate and incorrect tire label information. However, last year's model was subject to four recalls for two separate issues with the rearview camera whereby images were reduced or missing, a potential fuel leak, and loss of braking assist.

Like other BMWs, the X4 M comes with a competitive four-year/50,000-mile limited warranty and four years of roadside assistance. BMW has also been generous enough to include three years or 36,000 miles of complimentary scheduled maintenance for customers in the USA.

No BMW X4 M safety review has yet been conducted by either the NHTSA or the IIHS. However, since the X4 shares a platform and other components with the X3, shoppers will be encouraged that the latter SUV earned only Good crashworthiness reviews from the IIHS for the 2022 model year. The X4 should perform similarly well if it is evaluated.

An array of safety technologies should keep X4 M occupants safe if the worst happens, or help the driver to circumvent a collision in the first place. As expected, the SUV comes with dynamic stability control and hill descent control. The airbag count totals six and includes front side airbags and head airbags for occupants in all outboard seating positions.

The Active Driving Assistant bundles together forward collision warning, speed limit information, active blind-spot detection, and lane departure warning. Automatic city collision mitigation and braking are standard too. The X4 M also gets front/rear parking sensors, dynamic cruise control, post-crash braking, fatigue/focus alert, accident detection and preparation, automatic high beams, and BMW Assist eCall with an SOS button. There are several options that enhance safety and driver-assistance like a head-up display, parking assistance, an extended traffic jam assistant, a lane control assistant, and an evasion aid.

The 2022 BMW X4 M is a highly specialized vehicle, making it a tough recommendation for the average SUV buyer. We are happy to see BMW take customer feedback into account, softening the suspension for the 2022 model year. However, we don't believe BMW went far enough with this change to please families who plan to use the X4 M every day on rough roads. Sure, the X4 M offers blistering performance, but we would have more fun driving an M3 Sedan or M4 Coupe.

Price agnostic shoppers in the high-performance crossover segment will find a lot to love here, including a sweetheart inline-six engine, blistering performance, and eye-catching styling. That being said, Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 Coupe offers similar performance and an uncompromisingly stiff ride too, with only the Alfa alternative giving buyers a truly supple suspension in the right mode. If comfort is more important, we recommend stepping down to the X4 M40i, or spending up on the softer (and larger) Jaguar F-Pace SVR. And if you're completely sold on the X4 M but want more space, the X3 M offers an identical driving experience for $3,500 less. We'd go for the X3 M, since it's more practical.

The price of the BMW X4 M starts at an MSRP of $73,400, excluding a $995 destination charge in the US. To unlock over 500 hp, the Competition Package will add $7,000 to the bill. With all the extras and including the destination charge, the X4 M will cost you just shy of $89,000.

The 2022 BMW X4 M is available in just a single trim. Its 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine produces 473 hp and 457 lb-ft of torque, or 503 hp and 479 lb-ft with the Competition Package. An eight-speed automatic gearbox is standard and comes with paddle shifters. Launch control, an M sport differential, an adaptive M suspension, and the xDrive all-wheel-drive system round out a mightily impressive performance SUV. No other configurations are available, unlike the M3 which comes with a rear-wheel-drive option too.

Not one to blend in with the crowd, the aggressively styled X4 M rides on 20-inch alloy wheels, or 21s in Competition spec. It has LED headlights, moody Shadowline trim, and an aerodynamic kit. Most other road users will only ever see the back of the X4 M which is embellished with an M rear spoiler and M quad tailpipes.

The cabin perfects the balance of sportiness and luxury that BMW excels at. Leather upholstery is standard, and the front seats are heated and have power side bolsters. Multi-zone climate control and an ambient lighting system are standard. Ahead of the driver, there's a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, and to the right is another 12.3-inch screen, the latter responsive to touch. Both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, as is a 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.

Safety equipment includes six airbags, lane departure warning, active blind-spot detection, and a rearview camera, with all forming part of the base price.

Most shoppers will only care about the popular Competition Package, and why not? It may cost $7,000 but it unleashes the best of the X4 M with 503 hp and a 0-60 time of only 3.7 seconds. You also get 21-inch wheels, an M sport exhaust system, M sport seats, M seat belts, and extended Shadowline trim.

Of course, the base model X4 M is plenty fast enough on its own, so you could skip the Competition Package and enhance it with the $1,700 Driving Assistance Professional Package. This adds radar-based assistance including an evasion aid and a lane control assistant. The $2,250 Executive Package, meanwhile, gets you automatic parking assistance, gesture control, a head-up display, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel. Together, these two packages represent pretty decent value.

For $2,500, the M Driver's Package raises the top speed and gets you a one-day professional driving class at BMW.

The BMW X4 M comes in two flavors; standard and Competition. Since we can't think of any crossover race classes, it's tough to imagine anyone needing the $7,000 Competition Package (unless money is not an object). Yes, it dials up the output to 503 hp, but the base car has plenty with 473 hp. You are better off spending that $7,000 on comfort features, such as the upgraded M seats with Merino leather for $1,950, the Driving Assistance Professional Package for $1,700, Executive Package for $2,250, and ventilated seats for $350. From there, we'd spec Toronto Red for $550. As-described, our ideal X4 M rings in at $79,850 (compared to $86,145 for our Competition tester). To save an additional $3,500, we'd pick the X3 M over the X4 M.

The only Porsche Macan that comes close to matching the X4 M's performance is the GTS. Starting at $79,900, it's pricier but also down on power at 434 hp, relative to the base X4 M's 473 hp. You also have to shell out another $1,220 on the Porsche to get the Sport Chrono package which will bring down the 0-60 time from 4.3 to 4.1 seconds, at which point the X4 M is still quicker. In the Porsche's favor is more feelsome steering, a phenomenal dual-clutch automatic gearbox, and a wonderful chassis. But the X4 M handles well too, is cheaper, has a bigger trunk, and enjoys more features as standard like that panoramic moonroof and a better sound system. The Porsche looks good and has the dynamic edge in some respects, but the X4 M is more car for less money.

By comparison, the more practical X3 M is $3,500 less expensive than the X4 M. It may not be as flashy to look at, but the X3 M is far from a boring SUV. It's got the same power and performance yet is more comfortable for rear-seat passengers. The X3 M also has a 28.7-cubic-foot trunk, over 10 cubes bigger than the X4 M's trunk. Many will also prefer the X3 M's less divisive styling, as the X4 M looks a bit strange from certain angles. To drive, both SUVs are difficult to tell apart, which is to say they're thrillingly quick. Both have rather firm suspension setups, though, so a test drive is necessary to ascertain if you can live with them. We'll go for the more sensible but just as enjoyable X3 M.