BMW is once again expanding its lineup of sporty crossovers and SUVs by adding an M-badged version of the 2016 X4. Rather than the more traditional X4M that everyone was expecting it to be called, BMW has stirred up its bowl of alphabet soup and called it the 2016 BMW X4 M40i. The name is extra silly, but don’t think that this is just some sort of half-assed M model that is more on the lines of an M sport package car. This machine comes to the table with a new bespoke engine, and it even gets the real ///M badge on the back just like the M235i.
The big news about the X4 M40i is that new motor. It’s a new variation of the N55 straight-six that is found across the BMW family. Coded N55B30T0, this turbocharged 3.0-liter engine is good for 355 horsepower and 343 lb-ft of torque. Rumor has it that this new N55 variant will be tapped to power the upcoming M2 as well.
Aside from the new engine, this is a pretty typical BMW upgrade. The suspension is tightened up, steering has been revised, and the transmission has been tuned to be sportier. The AWD system has been tuned for handling performance and a rearward power balance to retain the feel of a RWD car. There is also a nice big collection of visual changes that include a more aggressive front end, new badging and more.
BMW says the X4 M40i will hit 60 mph in 4.7 seconds, and it will continue until it hits its limited top speed of 150 mph. Check out the new look of this latest M-badge SUV from BMW in our full gallery. You can find the link below.
