Background
BMW X4 (F26) was the first generation of the X4 and the model that brought BMW’s Sports Activity Coupé concept to the premium mid-size segment. Introduced in the spring of 2014, the new X4 combined the technical foundations of the BMW X3 with a sporting coupé-style body inspired by the larger X6. The result was a vehicle combining an elevated driving position, intelligent all-wheel drive and the dynamic appearance of a sporting coupé.
Sporting coupé design
The X4’s most distinctive feature was its sloping roofline, giving the car a noticeably sportier appearance than a conventional SUV. Compared with the X3, the X4’s body was 36 millimetres lower, while the front seats were positioned 20 millimetres closer to the road. Muscular wheel arches, a rising shoulder line and distinctive rear lights further emphasised its dynamic character.
X3 engineering and xDrive
The BMW X4 was based on the technical platform of the second-generation X3 (F25). All versions featured intelligent xDrive all-wheel drive, which continuously distributed power between the front and rear axles according to driving conditions. Variable sport steering and Performance Control were also fitted as standard, helping to provide precise handling on winding roads.
Six different engines
The original engine range consisted of three petrol and three diesel engines, with outputs ranging from 184 to 313 hp. The most powerful petrol version was the X4 xDrive35i, whose 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-six produced 306 hp. At the top of the diesel range was the xDrive35d, delivering 313 hp and 630 Nm of torque and accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds.
Sportiness and practicality
Although the X4 prioritised sporting proportions, it retained a five-seat interior and sufficient luggage space for everyday use. Boot capacity was 500 litres, expanding to a maximum of 1,400 litres with the rear seats folded. Drivers could also benefit from BMW ConnectedDrive features and a range of advanced driver assistance systems.
The M40i flagship
In 2016, the BMW X4 M40i joined the range, bringing the X4 into the BMW M Performance family for the first time. Its 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-six produced 360 hp and 465 Nm. M-specific chassis tuning, a sports exhaust system and distinctive styling details highlighted its sporting character. The M40i accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds.
More than 200,000 cars
Production of the BMW X4 began in 2014 at BMW Plant Spartanburg in South Carolina, USA. The model quickly established itself within the BMW X family, and the 200,000th first-generation X4 rolled off the production line in January 2018. Production ended that spring as the second-generation X4 (G02) arrived. BMW has not published a definitive final production figure, but total first-generation production exceeded 200,000 cars.
Model in the collection
The BMW X4 (F26) in my collection was produced by Herpa. It represents the first-generation X4 introduced in 2014 and is finished in Mineral White Metallic. The metal model features an opening bonnet and tailgate.
Technical data in brief
World premiere: 2014
Production period: 2014–2018
Production location: BMW Plant Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA
Body style: five-door Sports Activity Coupé
Engines: four- and six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines
Original engine range output: 184–313 hp
Maximum power: 360 hp in the X4 M40i
Transmission: 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic, depending on version
Drivetrain: intelligent xDrive all-wheel drive
Length: 4,671 mm
Height: 1,624 mm
Luggage capacity: 500–1,400 litres
Production: more than 200,000 cars
Special feature: the first mid-size BMW Sports Activity Coupé
Photo of the real car. Photo: Sten-Patrick Kreek