2018 BMW X4

Pros: Sport-sedan-like handling agility; classy interior trimmings; decent fuel economy for the level of performance; M40i model offers significant performance boost

Cons: Unorthodox body style is much less practical than the similar (and more affordable) X3; stingy levels of standard equipment, and options add up fast; price premium of M40i model

CG Says: The 2018 BMW X4 is unchanged. The X4 is a premium compact crossover SUV. The X4 model roster consists of the turbo 4-cylinder-powered xDrive 28i and the high-performance M40i–which includes a sport suspension, special trim inside and out, and a 355-horsepower turbocharged 3.0-liter 6-cylinder. The X4 is a sporty, fastback-roof version of the previous-generation BMW X3 compact SUV. The swoopy, sloped-roofline body emphasizes style over the cargo space of the X3’s traditional wagon body, thus mimicking the relationship of the larger-sibling BMW X6 and X5. The X4’s ride height is 1.5 inches lower than the X3’s, so its handling is slightly sharper. Otherwise, the mechanicals are mostly the same, including the choice of a turbocharged 4-cylinder or 6-cylinder engine. However, unlike the X3, the X4 is available only with all-wheel drive. Available features include forward-collision warning and mitigation, blind-spot alert, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, park assist, LED headlights, and panoramic sunroof. The X4’s slick styling may wow some shoppers who are willing to pay a premium for it, but for most buyers, the X3’s superior cargo capacity, rear-seat passenger room, and lower sticker prices make it a better choice.