Photo: CarPix
Just a little over a month ago, we were the first to confirm that BMW will be building an M Performance model of the X4, called the X4 M40i. Now, our spy photographers caught up with the first ever prototype of the car and it’s our pleasure to introduce it to you.
As you can see, the X4 M40i seems to be wearing roughly the same M Sport package up front, as the regular model. The camouflage used on the front fascia makes it hard for us to discern between the curves and look for details but overall, the same two air intakes are present on the sides of the front bumper as well as a wider one down the middle.
On the sides, the model designation badges are covered with camouflage as well on the front doors and the M logo on the front wing is also carefully taped up. Even the side sills have been wrapped up.
Round the back is where we’re expecting more changes to be visible. That’s because the M performance model will have a new engine under the bonnet, shared with the upcoming M2 that will need a little more ‘breathing room’ that the regular X4.
If on the xDrive35i model, the twin tailpipes are not positioned to the sides of the rear spoiler but both of them on the left side, on the M40i we’re expecting them to grow in number (4 tailpipes will likely be used) and migrate in pairs to the sides (two on each side). As you can see, the rear bumper of this car even has the cutouts there but they are housing just one tip each for now.
Speaking of the powerplant, our reliable source inside BMW claims that it will be a 3-liter upgraded, turbocharged unit developed on the same platform as the N55HP unit on the M235i. However, it will have close to 370 HP and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque and a similar inline architecture.
Production of the X4 M40i will begin in December 2015 as a 2016 model, with a projected end of production being scheduled in March 2018. That means this will not be a limited-production car and it will take on the likes of the Macan S.
On the sides, the model designation badges are covered with camouflage as well on the front doors and the M logo on the front wing is also carefully taped up. Even the side sills have been wrapped up.
Round the back is where we’re expecting more changes to be visible. That’s because the M performance model will have a new engine under the bonnet, shared with the upcoming M2 that will need a little more ‘breathing room’ that the regular X4.
If on the xDrive35i model, the twin tailpipes are not positioned to the sides of the rear spoiler but both of them on the left side, on the M40i we’re expecting them to grow in number (4 tailpipes will likely be used) and migrate in pairs to the sides (two on each side). As you can see, the rear bumper of this car even has the cutouts there but they are housing just one tip each for now.
Speaking of the powerplant, our reliable source inside BMW claims that it will be a 3-liter upgraded, turbocharged unit developed on the same platform as the N55HP unit on the M235i. However, it will have close to 370 HP and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque and a similar inline architecture.
Production of the X4 M40i will begin in December 2015 as a 2016 model, with a projected end of production being scheduled in March 2018. That means this will not be a limited-production car and it will take on the likes of the Macan S.
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