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BMW X4 (F26) — UK review

BMW X4 (F26) Review (2014–)

Coupe Looks, SUV Versatility, and BMW Sport DNA

BMW UK review Since 2014 By the True Motion Auto editorial team

Vehicle Overview

Vehicle SegmentCompact Luxury Coupe SUV
Body Style5-Door Coupe-Styled SUV
Release Year2014
Trim/Variant ReviewedX4 xDrive30d M Sport (also available: xDrive20i, xDrive28i, xDrive35i, xDrive20d, xDrive35d)

Key Specifications (xDrive30d)

Engine3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6 Diesel
Transmission8-Speed ZF Automatic
Power Output258 hp @ 4,000 rpm
Torque560 Nm @ 1,500–3,000 rpm
DrivetrainAll-Wheel Drive (xDrive)
Dimensions4,671 mm (L) × 1,881 mm (W) × 1,624 mm (H); Wheelbase: 2,810 mm
Weight~1,840–1,950 kg (Kerb)
Fuel Tank Capacity67 liters
Fuel Economy~5.9 L/100 km (combined WLTP for diesels)
Boot Space500 L (seats up) / 1,400 L (folded)

Exterior Design

Sloped fastback-style roofline mimics a coupe silhouette

Shares front-end styling with X3, but features a wider, sportier rear

Pronounced wheel arches, sculpted sides, and signature BMW twin-circle headlights

M Sport trim adds aggressive bumpers, blacked-out trim, and larger alloy wheels

A bold and niche design choice aimed at style-conscious buyers

Interior, Comfort & Materials

Based on X3 cabin but with more driver-focused angles and M-style details

High-quality materials, soft-touch dashboard, aluminum or wood trim

Sports seats with adjustable bolstering in M Sport models

Rear headroom reduced due to coupe roof, but legroom is ample

Elevated driving position provides commanding view despite sporty profile

Features & Infotainment

Standard iDrive 6.5" display; optional 8.8" with navigation

Rotary controller with direct-access buttons

Bluetooth, USB, and AUX as standard; optional Wi-Fi hotspot

Optional upgrades

Harman Kardon sound system

Head-Up Display

Surround-view cameras and parking assistant

Gesture control (in later models)

Safety & Ratings

Standard Safety Features

ABS, DSC, airbags, stability assist

xDrive AWD enhances stability in all conditions

Crash Test Ratings

Euro NCAP (X3-based)★★★★★

Excellent structural protection; strong safety assist score

Optional driver-assist features

Adaptive cruise control

Lane departure warning

Forward collision warning with pedestrian detection

Driving Performance & Handling

xDrive30d: 0–100 km/h in ~5.8 seconds

Strong mid-range torque and refined power delivery

xDrive provides excellent grip, especially in poor weather

Adaptive M suspension allows Comfort or Sport tuning

Steering is precise; less body roll than expected from an SUV

Overall more dynamic than the X3, though not as agile as sedans

Fuel Efficiency / Range

xDrive30d Efficiency: ~5.9–6.2 L/100 km (combined WLTP)

Petrol variants~7.2–8.5 L/100 km
Real-World Range850–1,000 km on a full tank (diesels)

EfficientDynamics tech includes auto start-stop, brake energy regen, and coasting modes

Practicality & Everyday Usability

Boot capacity500 L – slightly less than X3 due to sloped rear

Power tailgate standard; split-fold rear seats increase flexibility

Rear headroom affected by coupe roof — tight for tall adults

Isofix mounts in rear; rear doors narrower than X3

Still usable as a family car with compromises on access and visibility

Warranty & Maintenance

Original Warranty (Europe)3 years / unlimited mileage

Maintenance

Dieseloil service every 20,000 km or annually

Condition-Based Service (CBS) system monitors wear

Typical costs

Brake pads, tires (19–20" rims), and suspension wear

Turbo/intercooler checks on high-mileage diesels

On-Road Price & Value for Money

Original MSRP (UK, 2014): £35,000 – £47,000

Used Market (UK, 2024): £11,000 – £20,000 depending on trim and mileage

More expensive than X3, but justifies price with unique design and added features

Comparison with Rivals (2014–2017)

ModelPower0–100 km/hBootPrice (2014)
BMW X4 xDrive30d258 hp5.8s500 L£45,000
Audi Q5 3.0 TDI245 hp6.2s540 L£43,000
Range Rover Evoque SD4190 hp8.0s420 L£40,000
Porsche Macan S Diesel258 hp6.1s500 L£47,000
X4 stands out inHandling, coupe styling, and strong diesel torque
Falls short inRear seat comfort and cargo space vs boxier rivals

Pros & Cons

Pros

Stylish coupe-like design sets it apart from standard SUVs

Powerful and efficient diesel engines

Sporty handling with xDrive confidence

High-quality, well-equipped interior

M Sport trims offer aggressive looks and extra features

Cons

Less rear headroom and boot space than X3

Higher entry price and running costs

Ride can be firm on large wheels

Not for traditional SUV buyers prioritizing utility

Overall Rating

Rating★★★★☆ (4.3 / 5)

A design-driven, driver-focused SUV that offers unique appeal and performance in the compact luxury space.

Final Verdict

The 2014 BMW X4 (F26) carves out a niche for buyers who want SUV practicality with coupe flair. It doesn’t match the X3 in rear-seat or cargo utility, but offers better looks and more engaging dynamics. If you value style, badge prestige, and all-weather ability, the X4 is a strong contender.

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Pros & cons

Pros
  • Raised driving position and practical cabin layout
  • Useful family-friendly versatility
  • Premium badge appeal and refined cabin ambience
  • Good fit for UK buyers who choose the right trim
  • Strong shortlist candidate when total costs are checked
Cons
  • Final value depends heavily on trim, options and finance price
  • Larger wheels can reduce ride comfort and raise tyre costs
  • Availability, standard equipment and pricing may vary during the year

Final verdict

True Motion Auto verdict

The BMW X4 (F26) is a credible option in the UK market if it matches your priorities. The smartest approach is to decide what matters most - comfort, space, efficiency, performance, image or technology - then compare the exact trim against two or three rivals on the same route and the same finance basis. Choose the version that feels easiest to live with, not simply the one with the longest equipment list.

Buyer checkpoints

Buyer checkpointTrue Motion Auto view
Best forDrivers wanting a raised driving position and useful family practicality, premium materials, image and comfort.
Body styleSuv/Crossover
Powertrain focusPetrol, diesel or hybrid depending on model year and trim
UK ownership noteCheck insurance group, VED, charging or fuel costs and service-plan pricing before buying.
VerdictWorth shortlisting if its size, running costs and equipment match your daily use.

Frequently asked questions

Is the BMW X4 (F26) good for UK roads?
Yes, provided the trim and wheel size suit your roads. Always test the car on rough urban surfaces as well as a faster road.
Should I buy new or used?
New can make sense with strong finance support and full warranty. Used can be better value if depreciation has already taken effect.
What should I check before ordering?
Check live UK pricing, standard equipment, insurance group, VED, servicing costs, delivery times and warranty terms.
Is it suitable for families?
That depends on rear-seat access, boot shape and child-seat fit. Test those items in person rather than relying only on figures.
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Specifications, prices and equipment were current at publication and vary by model year, trim and market. Verify final details with a franchised dealer before ordering. Read how we review cars and our editorial policy.