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Expert Rating

BMW X4 M

(2019 - present)

Expert Rating

New car score:

46
%
E

Used car score:

43
%
E

Expert Rating report card

Media Rating:

53
%
E

Safety Rating:

59
%
D

Eco Rating:

38
%
D

Reliability Rating:

56
%
D

Running Costs:

11
%
E

How are our Expert Rating scores calculated?

Expert Rating

New car score:

46
%
E

Used car score:

43
%
E

Expert Rating report card

Media Rating:

53
%
E

Safety Rating:

59
%
D

Eco Rating:

38
%
D

Reliability Rating:

56
%
D

Running Costs:

11
%
E

Summary


The BMW X4 M is a mid-size SUV/crossover and the performance-enhanced version of the regular second-generation X4 coupé-SUV. First arriving on UK roads in 2019, the X4 M is effectively the X3 M SUV in a less boxy shape, featuring a sloping roofline and a liftback tailgate.

Like the X3 M line-up, the X4 M range consists of three models – the petrol-powered 360hp ‘M40i’ and diesel-engined 340hp ‘M40d’, and the range-topping 510hp ‘M Competition’ trim grade.

Auto Trader explains that BMW’s X4 M aim was simple, “to take the basic X4 model and make it as monstrous to drive as the M4 sports car“, and several UK motoring outlets conclude that the German brand has succeeded. Carwow comments that the X4 M is “more agile than an SUV has any right to be.”

That said, reviewers cite the same issues that hindered the X3 M’s review scores. James Brodie of Auto Express argues that the car’s suspension is “rock hard”, while others say that the car’s powerful engines lack character.

Should you want to opt for the X4 M’s raked rear-end styling over the X3 M’s boxy SUV looks, you will have to contend with its more expensive price tag, too. As Carwow concludes, the “X3 M Competition is cheaper, more practical and every bit as good to drive.”

As of December 2024, the BMW X4 M holds a poor New Car Expert Rating of E, with a score of just 46%. It scores top marks for reliability, but is not as good anywhere else. Its safety score is only average (and its Euro NCAP safety rating has now expired due to age), while its CO2 emissions and running costs are high.

X4 M highlights

  • High-quality interior
  • Strong performance
  • Intuitive infotainment

X4 M lowlights

  • Rather rigid ride comfort
  • The X3 M is cheaper and more practical
  • Uninspiring engine soundtrack

Key specifications


Body style: Medium SUV/crossover
Engines:
petrol
Price:
From £65,735 on-road

Launched: Summer 2019
Last updated: Summer 2021
Replacement due: TBA


Media reviews


Reviews, road tests and comparisons from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.

Auto Express

+

Auto Trader

+

Carwow

+

Heycar

+

The Sun

+

Top Gear

+

Safety rating


Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

Overall score: 5 stars
Date tested: December 2017
Date expired: January 2024
Read the full Euro NCAP review

Adult protection: 93%
Child protection: 84%
Vulnerable road users: 70%
Safety assist: 58%

Notes on safety rating

The BMW X4 family, including the X4 M, shares its safety rating with the near-identical X3 SUV, which was assessed by Euro NCAP back in 2017 and awarded a five-star rating. Rather than physically crashing several X4s, Euro NCAP would have required BMW to submit specific data to show that the changes made to the X4’s roofline would not affect how it performs in an accident.

However, this rating expired in January 2024 and is no longer valid as the car no longer meets the standards required for such a rating. This is normal practice, as Euro NCAP reviews its ratings on most cars annually with most ratings expiring after about six or seven years.

However, if you are comparing a used X4 M to vehicles of similar age, whose ratings will have probably also expired, its safety rating score is still useful.

Eco rating


Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP

No eco rating

As of December 2024, the BMW X4 M has not been assessed by Green NCAP.

Reliability rating


Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

All data based on MotorEasy average workshop costs for extended car warranty claims

Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

The BMW X4 family (including the X4 M) has a poor reliability score of 53%, according to workshop and warranty data provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our partner, MotorEasy. This score applies to the current (2018 onwards) X4 as well as to older models.

The biggest concern for X4 owners is the engine. Although there have been very few warranty claims, the average repair bill is an eye-watering £3,700. Other repairs, for suspension, electrics and braking, have been very cheap.

If you own a BMW X4 M or are interested in buying a used X4 of any variety, you’d do well to make sure that any used car warranty you buy has adequate cover for engine failures and faults.

Running cost rating

Clear Vehicle Data logo close crop

Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data

Fuel consumptionAverageScoreVariationScore
Petrol models26 mpgE25 – 26 mpgE – E
CO₂ outputAverageScoreVariationScore
Petrol models245 g/kmD244 – 260 g/kmD – D
Insurance groupAverageScoreVariationScore
All models48D46 – 48D – D
Service and maintenanceCostScore
Year 1£755E
Year 2£1,679D
Year 3£2,591D
Year 4£2,811D
Year 5£3,679D
Overall£11,515D

The BMW X4 M is an expensive car to own and run, according to whole-life cost numbers provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our data partner, Clear Vehicle Data.

Fuel economy, which is your main cost each month, is poor. Your annual bills for servicing, insurance and road tax are going to be high as well.

Similar cars


If you’re looking at the BMW X4 M, you might also be interested in these alternatives.

Alfa Romeo Tonale | Audi RS Q3 | BMW X3 MCupra Ateca | Jaguar E-Pace | Mini Countryman John Cooper Works | Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 | Porsche Macan S | Volkswagen Tiguan R


More news, reviews and information about the BMW X4 range at The Car Expert

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The BMW X4 M is a performance-enhanced coupé-SUV with serious pace, but reviewers take issue with its rigid ride comfort and practicality.BMW X4 M