“And there’s more space than there was in the X-sixth,” one quick glance at the rear row of X4 seats was enough for the obese Nissan owner Patrol to confirm what the BMW representative said at the presentation of the new product. Indeed, despite being almost 240mm shorter and over 100mm narrower than the BMW X6, the crossover is no car for two. That's just the opening tailgate a bit low: the roof is so radically sloping that you sit inside with some caution - you wouldn’t hurt your head.
As in the definition of class X4. A sporty urban four-door (actually five-) coupe-crossover? Emotional "x-third" or reduced "x-sixth"? The base from the first, the form from the second, the provocativeness of fast three-pointers - the Bavarians concentrated all their latest developments in the X4 and aimed at the Macan. Moreover, Porsche gave them a sudden gift - if at the start of sales in Russia the Macan in the S version started from 2.5 million rubles, now its initial cost has increased by 200 thousand rubles. When asked why, in the Russian office of Porsche, they answered succinctly: “We reserve the right to change the cost.”
Suspension EDC
BMW X4, like most models of the Bavarian brand, received a proprietary electronic adjustment stiffness of EDC shock absorbers. You can set the parameters automatically or manually by selecting the appropriate mode: Comfort, Normal, Sport or Sport +. The EDC system reduces wheel load fluctuations, thus providing better tire grip. IN automatic mode damper stiffness is adjusted in real time. Thanks to this system, under heavy braking, the BMW X4 practically does not nod.
The starting price of X4 (sales in Russia have already begun) is 2,314,000 rubles. - this is for the 245-horsepower gasoline X4 xDrive 28i. More powerful benzy new crossover, xDrive 35i (306 hp) - from 2,510,000 rubles. Diesel range also available in two versions: 249-horsepower xDrive 30d (from 2,460,000 rubles) and 313-horsepower xDrive 35d (from 2,714,000 rubles). The latter is the fastest of the X4, reaching 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds (the Macan S does it in 5.4 seconds). The torque of the xDrive 35d is crazy - 630 Nm at 1500-2500 rpm.
But it's not even about prices: the same three-liter diesel BMW X4 can be stuffed with options so that its price tag will soar to 4.6-4.7 million rubles. (the real value of one of the cars we tested). The quota for Macan for Russia is so small that the queue for modification under the letter S has already stretched until next year. This means that the X4 will find its buyer in any case, even if it loses to a competitor from Porsche in a head-to-head collision.
And he is not inferior: fast, reckless, with a quick-witted 8-speed ZF automatic and a cool energy-intensive suspension - not air, unlike the Macan. And, unlike him, the Bavarian is much more suitable for the role of a family car. The portrait of the X4 audience in BMW is seen as follows: these are, for the most part, men - married and with children, and the X4 for them is not the only car in family. "X-sixth", on the contrary, women were more willing to buy.
Dimensions of BMW crossovers:
BMW X3 and X4, built on the same platform, have almost identical dimensions. Differences are only in length - 14 mm in favor of X4. The trunk of the novelty is smaller - the difference is 50 liters. "X-sixth" significantly exceeds the younger models in size. The car also has a larger trunk - its volume is 580 liters versus 500 for the X4.
Inside X4 - almost a copy of the "x-third". Well-assembled, concise, with the obligatory branded system management washer. But it differs in landing - the front seats, like the rear ones, are located a couple of tens of millimeters lower. And, of course, visibility is worse, which is hindered in front by massive pillars in the corners, and behind by a sloping roof and a miniature glazing area.
A very important advantage of the Bavarian over the Macan is the variability of the engine range. On the roads of the Leningrad region, we tested all four modifications and were surprised at how much they differ in behavior. The older petrol variant tends to roll a little more in tight corners and is noticeably heavier, as well as giving the impression of excess power - the same feeling I experienced in the X6M. The top diesel X4 is so impressively fast that all the little things fade into the background, and the 245-horsepower gasoline crossover seemed to me the most balanced - a minimum of rolls, full compliance with expectations, understandable responses. The 249-horsepower diesel is also good.
We assemble our X4 based on the standard xDrive28i (from 2,304,000 rubles):
- EDC suspension stiffness adjustment system - 75,926 rubles;
- Tinted glass - 26,945 rubles;
- Sports seats - 37,963 rubles;
- LED headlights - 172,586 rubles;
- Rain and light sensors - 9,015 rubles;
- Keyless access to the salon - 40,768 rubles;
- Projection display - 75,926 rubles;
- Power seats - 75,926 rubles;
- Dual-zone climate control - 44,874 rubles;
- Harman Kardon Surround audio system - 75,226 rubles;
- Rear view camera - 28,948 rubles;
- Navigation system - 109,782 rubles;
- Leather interior - 123,505 rubles.
- total cost additional options: 897 390 rub.
Initially, they sinned on the suspension - the "junior" gasoline and diesel crossovers were in the M-package. But, as it turned out, it is identical for all four - with electronically controlled shock absorbers of the EDC system. It turns out that it's all about weight? The lightest of the X-fours, the 245-horsepower petrol xDrive 28i weighs 1,845 kg, but that's only 50 kg less than the xDrive 35i. Let's say so, especially since in conditions where the center of gravity of the car is not as low as that of flattened on asphalt sports coupe and this difference matters. The magic of the famous Bavarian letter M is not the reason for everything.
And it was behind the wheel of the xDrive 28i, in the next long turn on the desert roads of the Leningrad region, which are perfect for a test drive, that it finally got through - here it is, a complete, complete image of a truly universal car. Yes, in fact, this is a constructor of ideas from the X3 and X6, but the language does not dare to call the new crossover from BMW a reduced copy of the X-sixth. Rather, on the contrary, there is every reason to believe that this X6 is an enlarged X4.
Because just the “X-fourth” is the most suitable for this form factor of a rearing coupe. In addition, it behaves like a real BMW on asphalt and at the same time not bad off-road: at the risk of quarreling with the fishermen, we still got over the sandy hill and ended up on the shores of the Gulf of Finland. The overhangs are short and ground clearance here, like the X-third, it is 204 millimeters.
Harmonious and not gangster at all, X4 looks like a logical continuation of the Bavarian tone of voice - keeping the brand's history, but no longer provoking a banal associative array, where there are a lot of weapons and dull tinting is obligatory. Or we are changing.
Alexey Butenko
Photo: Dmitry Krotov and BMW
BMW does not seem to rest until it sorts out all the numbers in the designation of its X-series models. Already on the track, as in the case of the X5, after which the smaller X3 appeared, the Bavarians release the X4, naturally after the X6.
Vasily Nailovna,
(C) "Autoclub-Kazan"
Having learned that this time we will have another novelty of the Bavarian concern on a test drive, namely the BMW X4, I could not help but try it out, as they say, in action. Interest in this model was also dictated by the fact that I am the owner of his fellow BMW X3 and it would be nice to compare them.
Let's start. Sitting behind the wheel of the X4, I immediately felt at home, where everything is familiar: the design of the instruments, the front panel, the control knobs - as if I had never changed to another car, in general, everything is the same as in my X3. Therefore, without wasting time on adaptation, I started the car and drove along the city roads. And the first thing that caught my eye was the small rear-view mirrors. Yes and salon mirror It also doesn't help much to keep track of the situation on the road. As a car lady, I can't help but emphasize the sleek design of the exterior mirrors, which looks organic and complements the X4's style, but I would like to get better visibility at the same time. This is the only drawback of the X4, which I noticed during a rather short trip around the city. Otherwise, everything was just fine, the car pleases and responds easily. For example, if you need to speed up, slightly pressed the gas and X4 flew. Stops the car, too, easily and on time. Switching 8AKPP occur imperceptibly. And, by the way, in the corners the car heels noticeably less than the X3, the handling is excellent.
After the test, I was almost certain that after X4 3.0 turbo petrol (306 hp) my X3 2.0 turbo diesel (184 hp) would seem slow. However, I did not feel a big difference in dynamics. Perhaps the fact is that my test took place in a city where cameras are crammed literally at every step and there is practically nowhere to press hard on the gas. And up to 60 km / h, acceleration for these cars is not much different. By the way, the maximum torque of these engines is close: 400 Nm for 35i and 380 Nm for 20d.
I must confess to you that I am not a fan of this type of body, inherent in X6 and now X4. But here it's a matter of taste, for someone, for sure, the X4 looks more beautiful than the X3. And I am sure that X4 will have many admirers among women. For example, pay attention: X5 drivers are mostly men, and among X3 drivers at least half are women. I assume that it will also be with X6 and X4. Surely, many liked the rapid lines of the X6 body, but they were not satisfied with the price and size of the car. Now they have a good choice– X4.
Igor Tolmachev,
(C) "Autoclub-Kazan"
Hi all. It has been a long time since we rolled the last cars of the Bavarian automaker. Today we were given a BMW X4 for a test drive. I want to note right away that this car is a reduced copy of the BMW X6. Well, let's see how it will affect the convenience of passengers. On the front seats, the ceiling height is normal, you don’t touch it on bumps. On the back sofa, the situation is radically opposite. Due to the sloping roof, it seems that it will be uncomfortable for people with large stature to sit there. However, the impression becomes reality. You don’t seem to touch the ceiling due to the fact that the seats seem to be lowered closer to the floor, but, with long trips as a passenger, your legs will start to get tired. All due to the fact that the knees are very high level regarding the seat. You won't be able to stay in this position for long. On the other hand, children usually sit in the back, it will probably be more convenient for them there.
How much comfort will provide us with the first row of seats. Let's start with the driver's side. Usually, many auto experts say that in the Germans everything you need is in intuitive places. But most likely, this BMW X4 is still not made according to these canons of the industry. Firstly, I did not immediately find the “unclenching” of lateral support in the electric seat adjustments. It seems that I'm not so fat, but the discomfort from the fact that you seem to be held in a vise is still present. It was only later that I found these cherished two keys, and then on the front passenger seat. But it was too late, the turn of the steering wheel for me had already passed. It's a shame.
Very pleased with that. sitting on the back sofa, you can adjust the temperature and air flow. It seems that the adjustment is mechanical, just two wheels, like on air deflectors, but the temperature can be very different from the temperature in front. Oh yes, we noticed that in many BMW cars, for some reason, the windows of the rear doors fog up from time to time. With what it is connected, we have not found the answers. Okay, now let's move on to dynamic characteristics this BMW X4. As it is written in the official data, acceleration to hundreds will take only 5.5 seconds from your precious time. Max Speed is 247 km/h. This, for example, is almost the distance to Naberezhnye Chelny, i.e. to this wonderful city on this luxury car can be reached in just one hour. Oh, dreams are dreams. On our curved road, the car confidently keeps turns at a speed of 110-120 km / h, the roll is minimal. And even despite the fact that we have highway tires, we were able to confidently get out of the mud rut. Although, these same tires, called Pirelli, are only suitable for city roads. On the track, when we picked up speed up to 140 km / h, the car began to float on the road, it was felt that the grip was minimal. Therefore, if you buy this car, it is best to buy new kit tires such as Michelin. During my five years of operation of these wheels, there have never been any complaints about handling.
I also want to point out that in this car very well thought out aerodynamics. This can be felt in inclement weather. It rained and drizzled all day during the test drive, but despite these conditions, our car remained clean, like from a car dealership. Aerodynamics was achieved by reducing the exterior mirrors, which affected the inconvenience when parking the car. Not all moments road conditions viewed, although the car has a rear-view camera for this purpose.
That's all for me. I was pleased with the car, even despite the minor inconveniences associated with my height. After all, each person chooses for himself the individual characteristics of his future car. Well, by tradition, I want to remind some motorists that the speed limit on the highways is 90 km / h, if there are no restrictive signs. And Left Lane designed only for overtaking, and not for constant movement on them. Thank you all for your understanding.
Vadim Sadykov,
(C) "Autoclub-Kazan"
How BMW owner, I will postpone the expression of enthusiasm for later and immediately move on to the shortcomings of the X4. Usually, large “burdocks”, rear-view mirrors are placed on SUVs. But in X4 they are relatively small. Yes, they are beautiful, yes, they are good in terms of aerodynamics, but I would like to have better visibility. Moreover, the tailgate has a small glass area, and therefore the interior mirror is also practically useless for tracking traffic situation. Perhaps this main disadvantage X4. Igor and Alfred also noted that the distance between the gas and brake pedals is too small, everything is done as if under a woman's foot. Therefore, it is difficult for a man to get on the right pedal without hitting the left. Personally, I did not have such difficulties.
About what the ceiling is for rear passengers will be low enough, one could guess without getting into the car, but simply by seeing the sloping roof. Space above the heads of X4 passengers is noticeably less than in X3. The manufacturer tried to level this drawback as much as possible: the rear seats are located lower than the front ones. Thanks to this, the distance to the ceiling is now almost the same both in front and behind. Another significant drawback - the car begins to lose directional stability, "float" on wet road at a certain speed. And this is all the more incomprehensible because both in the city and on our test winding road near the M7, the car showed good handling, small rolls in corners. And suddenly, with a simple rectilinear movement in the rain, the car begins to behave insecurely. It seems to me that only the Pirelli tires are responsible for this. For example, Dunlop tires that went to bmw series X, easily coped at highway speeds with a normal wet road without large puddles.
As always, the work of the engine and box at the BMW is gorgeous. The 35i engine is a 3.0-litre turbocharged petrol that produces 306 hp, allowing a 1900 kg car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.5 seconds. At the same time, the characteristics promise a very low consumption of gasoline in the city: 10.7 liters per “hundred”. To be honest, I absolutely do not believe in the achievability of such a figure, but this is what happened according to the results of our test: the BC readings (we did not reset them) decreased from 18.5 to 15 liters. That is, in reality, our consumption during the test was even less. At first it seems unreal: very powerful and fast engine It doesn't seem to be economical. However, any miracles have their own simple explanation: the powerful thrust of the engine is felt almost from idling so there is no need to press hard on the gas. For lovers of accuracy, I will inform you that the maximum torque of 400 Nm is already achieved at 1200 rpm. I won’t talk much about the work of 8AKPP, I will only note that it is noticeably superior to 6AKPP.
BMW is faithful to the chosen strategic line - to be closer and more accessible to customers. First came the X3, a smaller copy of the bestseller X5. Then X1 was released to the market, the cheapest of the BMW cars X series. Now the X6 has " younger brother”, externally very similar to it, but more affordable.
Alfred Mardanov,
(C) "Autoclub-Kazan"
BMW does not seem to rest until it sorts out all the numbers in the designation of its X-series models. Already on the track, as in the case of the X5, after which the smaller X3 appeared, the Bavarians release the X4, naturally after the X6. Outwardly, the cars are very similar to each other, which ... ... is very sad, I will explain why. This is such an unpleasant moment for X6 owners, which can now easily be confused with X4, but, on the contrary, for X4 owners the situation is funny. X5 and X3 are outwardly quite distinguishable in terms of body shape (although I think this is also not for long) and, as they say, the accents are placed, one is smaller, the second is larger and more prestigious. BMW build exceptional cars, but at the same time not without a healthy conservatism. Despite the peppy and gambling disposition, the X4 inside is almost an exact copy of the X3, although there is an element of sportiness. These are super-comfortable seats with electrically adjustable lateral support and a plump M-type steering wheel, which, by the way, is a bit thick in my opinion. I'm not talking about sports automatic box and the very nature of the car, the start and acceleration as if on a roller coaster, is breathtaking. Electronic system exchange rate stability purely BMW, allows you to feel the car and intervenes only when necessary, and not pulling the driver away in advance. honed driving performance amaze, or rather, even just delight, for BMW - this is the standard, which captivates future buyers. It steers perfectly, is comfortable and at the same time does not differ in rigidity, the result of the work of the suspension with electronic control, (not to be confused with air suspension). The sloping rear roof that stole space from passengers and trunk in this case is not an argument at all, let's be honest, this is not family car. This is a car for pleasure, the pleasure of the driver.
After the test, for the sake of formality, we deliberately sat on the back sofa of the X6 in the car dealership, the situation is almost the same: there is more space here. In the X4, the seats are lower, due to this, the headroom is the same as in the X6. There are no prophets in their own country, so I will assume for the Germans that the X2 phenomenon cannot be avoided, time will tell. BMW X4 is supplied to our market with four types of engines: two petrol and two diesel. Petrol power 245 and insane 306 hp, the two diesels are even more interesting at 249 and 313 hp. starting price car from 2,314,000 rubles. No matter what they say, but according to pre-orders, the BMW X4 has already almost chosen the entire annual quota for Russia.
Car provided official dealer TransTechService car center "BMW".
Specifications:
Engine - 3.0 l, turbo (gasoline)
Max. Power - 306 hp /5800 - 6400 rpm
Max. cool torque - 400 Nm / 1220-5000 rpm.
Max. speed (km/h) — 247
Acceleration 0-100 km / h - 5.5 seconds
Fuel consumption:
city - 10.7 l
track - 6.9 l
mixed - 8.3 l
Transmission - automatic transmission 8-speed
Drive full
Own weight - 1890
Length - 4 671
Width - 1 881
Height - 1624
Tires - 245/50 R18
Equipment
Leather interior, heated sports multifunction steering wheel, sports front seats, climate control, rain and light sensor, front and rear parking sensors, rear view camera, cruise control, bi-xenon, Start / Stop system with brake energy regeneration, EUR, 4ESP, PTF, heated mirrors and front seats, satellite anti-theft system, Harman Karbon Surround Sound CD, MP3, DVD, USB, 6.5 color display, ECO PRO button, 6 airbags.
Warranty - 2 years without limitation.
Interservice run 15,000 or 18 months.
The price at the time of the test is 3,344,454 rubles.
The new model in the new line of the Bavarian company BMW x4 is almost a BMW x3, but you can’t transport a dog here. The roof is higher and the back door is wider, it will not work bmw test x4, and a trip to the country with BMW x3. The shortcomings in the spaciousness of the BMW x4 skillfully cover up with dynamics. And let this dude look like a frank tribute to fashion, I like it!
About two tons weighs BMW x4 together with the driver, but the pilot will not notice this either on the autobahn or on a country road.
Yes, driving a BMW x4 feels like a pilot of an almost space mini-ship. These sensations are helped not only by the outstanding performance of our test BMW x4 (0-100 km / h in 5.8 seconds, maximum speed of 234 km / h). Even more impressive is the ease with which the ship rushes forward from any already gained speed.
I drove a BMW x3 and BMW x4 for a while, and the immediacy of the BMW X4 seemed closer to me. The brothers on the platform with almost the same bases, engines and drives, the suspension settings are still slightly different. But it is these nuances that lead to differences.
The BMW x4 came to the test with a 3-liter diesel engine with a power of 249 hp. and an eight-speed well-tuned automatic. Compared to the older diesel at 313 hp. ours is only 0.6 seconds late to accelerate to hundreds - this is a minuscule amount to feel the difference. As there are no driving sensations and dynamics between BMW x4 and BMW x3 with the same engines, their appetites are also close.
BMW x4 hardly faster bmw x3, characteristics and fuel consumption are almost identical, but according to my feelings, the BMW x4 is more manageable, frisky than the seemingly heavier and strained X3.
Where is the all-wheel-drive coupe appeal that mesmerizes me? I've always liked the BMW x6, but it's noticeably more expensive. Of course, the BMW X4 isn't cheap either, with a 249bhp diesel. from 2.5 million rubles
You have to pay extra for the base price for the metallic, xLine package (19-inch wheels, different aluminum parts and upholstery with red stitching). If you add Navi Professional and sports seats the price will go up. And more interesting are options such as adaptive dampers, the Driving Assist Plus package or adaptive LED headlights.
BMW x4: upholstery with red stitching
All in all, the BMW X4 is expensive, a fact that becomes even more surprising when you consider that it is basically just a BMW 3 Series.
I wouldn't take a BMW x3, I just don't need it. All-wheel drive coupe bmw x4, even with less roomy interior attracts more.
There are few cars in this class that can take corners as easily as the BMW x4 does. The reconfigurable sports steering is not too light, but precise and informative. The heavy coupe follows his orders like a Formula 1 car.
Powerful traction in every situation and almost "unbending" neutral steering further enhance the enjoyment of the BMW X4. Only in extreme situations the car gently hints at oversteer before clever ESP kicks in.
BMW x4: agile cornering, precise, direct handling, low body roll, good traction. But it's all on asphalt off-road qualities does not shine, it will not let you down on winter city streets.
There is a slight difference between the BMW X3 and BMW X4 in terms of suspension comfort, both are quite soft, but the BMW X4 with its 19-inch wheels feels more "wooden". And the greater interior space of the X3 is hardly a decisive factor for me. Although the comfort rear seats it is noticeably better.
In the BMW x4, passengers will experience head tightness in the back. How much exactly fits into the trunk of 550 (X3) or 500 liters (X4) practically does not matter. The backrests recline to form a flat, slightly raised floor. Here you can carry skis and kite equipment.
The large width of the tailgate speaks in favor of the X3. But the BMW x4 test is not over yet.
BMW x3: Very quality finish, Very good seats front, poor rear visibility, but there is all the necessary multimedia. The thick steering wheel will tremble if you drive into the markings - it helps those who doze off at the wheel.
But still, driving pleasure is more important for me, the BMW x4 all-wheel drive coupe gives it more than the usual-looking BMW x3 SUV, although for noticeably more money.
BMW x3 test on cold November asphalt 2014
The BMW X4 makes up for its lack of spaciousness with a polished style that puts dynamics first. I want such a car, together we can get closer to the stars.
BMW X4
Specifications| COMMON DATA | BMW X4 xDrive 30d | BMW X4 xDrive 35d | BMW X4 xDrive 28i | BMW X4 xDrive 35i |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions, mm: length / width / height / base | 4671 / 1881 / 1624 / 2810 | 4671 / 1881 / 1624 / 2810 | 4671 / 1881 / 1624 / 2810 | 4671 / 1881 / 1624 / 2810 |
| track front / rear | 1616 / 1632 | 1616 / 1632 | 1616 / 1632 | 1616 / 1632 |
| Trunk volume, l | 500 / 1400 | 500 / 1400 | 500 / 1400 | 500 / 1400 |
| Turning radius, m | 5,8 | 5,8 | 5,8 | 5,8 |
| Curb / gross weight, kg | 1895 / 2410 | 1935 / 2440 | 1845 / 2360 | 1890 / 2405 |
| Acceleration time 0 - 100 km/h, s | 5,8 | 5,2 | 6,4 | 5,5 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 234 | 247 | 232 | 247 |
| Fuel / fuel reserve, l | DT / 67 | DT / 67 | A95/67 | A95/67 |
| Fuel consumption: urban / extra-urban / mixed cycle, l/100 km | 6,6 / 5,7 / 6,1 | 6,7 / 5,5 / 6,0 | 9,3 / 6,3 / 7,4 | 10,7 / 6,9 / 8,3 |
| CO2 emissions, g/km | 159 | 157 | 172 | 193 |
| ENGINE | ||||
| Location | Front lengthwise | Front lengthwise | Front lengthwise | Front lengthwise |
| Configuration / number of valves | R6 / 24 | R6 / 24 | R4 / 16 | R6 / 24 |
| Working volume, cu. cm | 2993 | 2993 | 1997 | 2979 |
| Compression ratio | 16,5 | 16,5 | 10,0 | 10,2 |
| Power, kW / hp | 183 / 249 at 4000 rpm. | 230 / 313 at 4400 rpm. | 180 / 245 at 5000 rpm. | 225 / 306 at 5800 rpm. |
| Torque, Nm | 560 at 1500 - 3000 rpm. | 630 at 1500 - 2500 rpm. | 350 at 1250 - 4800 rpm. | 400 at 1200 - 5000 rpm. |
| TRANSMISSION | ||||
| Type | all-wheel drive | all-wheel drive | all-wheel drive | all-wheel drive |
| Transmission | A8 | A8 | A8 | A8 |
| Gear ratios: I / II / III / IV / V / VI / VII / VIII / z.x. | 4,71 / 3,14 / 2,11 / 1,67 / 1,29 / 1,00 / 0,84 / 0,67 / 3,32 | 4,71 / 3,14 / 2,11 / 1,67 / 1,29 / 1,00 / 0,84 / 0,67 / 3,30 | ||
| main gear | 2,81 | 2,81 | 3,39 | 3,39 |
| CHASSIS | ||||
| Steering | rack-and-pinion with amplifier | rack-and-pinion with amplifier | rack-and-pinion with amplifier | rack-and-pinion with amplifier |
| Brakes: front / rear | ventilated disc / ventilated disc | ventilated disc / ventilated disc | ventilated disc / ventilated disc | |
| Tire size | 245/50R18 | 245/50R18 | 245/50R18 | 245/50R18 |
Just the other day, on the official website of BMW in Russia, the news appeared that sales of the next “off-road coupe” BMW X4 M40i are starting in our country. For those who are not in the know, we are talking about a car in a sports performance M Performance - in the common people "M-ka". As far as we know, we do not have any such machine yet. There is only a price tag. Serious price tag. After looking at it, we decided to find out what the slightly more affordable “almost M-ka” is like - a BMW X4 xDrive35i with an M-package installed
Today it is already difficult to say who was the first in the world to come up with the idea to put a purely passenger hatchback body on a high chassis of an all-wheel drive all-terrain vehicle. The most common point of view is that it was a certain, God forbid, Roy Lunn - a design engineer from a long-forgotten American Motors corporation. His famous AMC Eagle SUV not only significantly delayed the demise of the company, which was already withering in those years, but, as many are sure, laid the foundation for a fundamentally new class of cars - crossovers. I cannot fail to notice that only those who are not familiar with the Soviet system think this way. automotive history, but we're not talking about her now. And not even about the forgotten names of the American auto industry, but, oddly enough, about a fairly new BMW model. Models, in fact, are quite unusual and exceptionally, as they say now, "niche". To explain all its charm and unusualness, I had to start literally “from Adam”. More precisely, from Roy Lann.
Calculation by concepts
After leaving the scene of the extremely rare AMC Eagle SX / 4 model in European regions, almost all companies on all sides of all oceans began to produce crossovers exclusively with a station wagon body. However, there were exceptions, but so rare that even if you list them, you are unlikely to remember what these cars looked like. Such an approach is understandable and logical: the whole ideology modern crossover concluded that it universal car, equally well suited for all life situations and operating conditions. You understand - in the rain, and in the snow, and with luggage, and on the curb opposite the entrance ...
For several decades, the automotive world has been in agreement, which, as you remember, is “a product with complete non-resistance of the parties,” and continued to stamp universal crossovers. Continued until 2008 BMW company did not dare to violate this very non-resistance and launch the first Sport Activity Coupe on the market - the BMW X6 model. Of course, you understand what I'm getting at. “Coupe” this car was named solely for the red word and to make life easier for marketers. From the soplatform "universal off-road» The BMW X5 is distinguished primarily by its steeply sloping roof. Like a coupe or, more correctly, a hatchback.
By the way, until recently, the concept of "four-door coupe" caused sincere bewilderment. They could twist a finger at the temple! Now everything has changed. The experiment that the Bavarians decided on was bold, but the buyers liked the car. I liked it so much that even the sworn Stuttgart competitors did not disdain to borrow such a spectacularly “fired” idea.
Then everything went predictably. If it was possible to make an X6 “coupe” out of a large universal X5 crossover, then why not do the same in the lower grades? Gone are the days when you could get by model range consisting of five or six cars. Such is the feature modern market that manufacturers are constantly forced to look for new niches that have not yet been mastered by competitors. And the niche of the small, well, relatively small Sport Activity Coupe was still free. The Korean SsangYong Actyon (there was one, if you remember) doesn't count. I think that most of the employees of the BMW R&D center were not even aware of the existence of this car. The new "off-road coupe" was made, as intended, from the X3 crossover. All according to the same recipe as before. The undercarriage was practically not touched. The line of offered engines was supplemented by only one position. Even the usual division into "even-odd" was retained.
To whom and why?
The BMW X4 is no longer a novelty. Sales of this model began in our country in the fall of 2014. Premier tests of the "off-road coupe" were published on motorpage more than a year ago. And together with colleagues from the Avtopanorama magazine, we even managed to compare it with the Porsche Macan. But ride the most powerful (to date) petrol version X4 xDrive35i we have not yet been able to. Taking this opportunity, we hasten to fill this gap. What's more, it's worth it.
Talking about this model, we can not avoid comparison with the base X3. From him, we will dance, as from a stove. Remaking the crossover into an "off-road coupe", the Bavarians made it a little lower and longer. Wheelbase remained the same, but, due to more expressive and massive bumpers, the front and rear overhangs slightly increased. The roof clearly sank, especially in the rear. The ground clearance has been reduced by about an inch. I can imagine what the battle was between engineers and marketers. The first, for the sake of more sporty handling, wanted to “press” the car to the road as much as possible. The latter probably insisted that the X4 did not turn into a simple passenger car and would still be perceived as a crossover. But an unusual crossover ...
At the very beginning, I said that the words "crossover" and "practicality" in the modern automotive world have become almost synonymous. IN this case the task was to make not just an impractical crossover, but one that would not even cause thoughts that the owner bought it solely for utilitarian reasons and is going to carry his large family from/to the country house. More than two do not gather - the unspoken motto of the BMW X4. Hence the sloping roof, which lowers the ceiling above the rear sofa to almost critical values, and a relatively small trunk, at least compared to the X3. It is unlikely that he will suit those who seriously intend to transport something more or less significant in their car. Involuntarily, an analogy arises with the long sleeves of the boyar caftans, adopted in ancient Rus'. One glance at a man in such an outfit was enough to understand that he did not have to work with his hands. The maximum is to raise a spoon or a glass.
Probably, there is no point in once again talking about the ergonomics of the driver's BMW seats X4 - here it is almost exactly the same as on X3. We will not measure the width of the cabin with a ruler at the level of the shoulders or ass. Not so important and the distance from the pillow driver's seat to the ceiling - the chair rises and falls in a fairly wide range. For me, even in excess. In my memory, only one person complained that he was cramped in X Four. So he is ten centimeters taller and the same kilogram more solid than me. Personally, I did not like except that the adjustable lateral support for the driver's seat. I'm not fit and athletic enough for her. When you press the corresponding button, invisible servos buzz a little audibly and the rollers under the upholstery massage the back somewhere under the shoulder blades. But at the same time, they do not support me at all. Seats X6, I remember, are designed for more serious dimensions! However, this is also logical: the X4 is undoubtedly a more youthful car. I almost wrote “even more sporty”, but I was careful. With this, everything is not so simple. As the saying goes, options are possible. Here, we will talk about one of the options.
Illusion of superiority
By chance, we got a car in a very interesting performance. "Is it M-ka?" - we exclaimed in one voice, as soon as we saw her. How so? After all, it's not for sale yet. X5 M is, X6 M is also there. And the X4 M shown last year in Detroit is not yet available! “But there is the so-called M-Sport package,” they explained to us at the representative office. Indeed, by adding another 300,000 rubles to the already initially significant price, you can make your X4 outwardly almost indistinguishable from the X4 M, which, let me remind you, few people have seen live yet. I have seen and I can assure you that the resemblance is very great. The most noticeable difference is the shape of the muffler exhaust pipes. On the M version, they are round by default.
In addition to the standard sports package, our X4 was equipped with so many other useful things and beauties that it turned out to be a kind of special version in the “just don’t think that I didn’t have enough for the X6” package. What are the only decorative trims in the cabin, made of real wicker and baked carbon! By the way, for 300 euros apiece! Even on the real "M-ke" there are no such in the database. But that's not all, expensive M-improvements are not only about the design of the car.
Giving out the keys to the car, the press park employee handed me a small metal cylinder with a button on the end. “You’ll press it twice, if anything,” he said, smiling slyly, which reminded me of my company commander, who once, with the same expression on his face, placed the only grenade in our entire platoon on the table in front of me. This time, the "if anything" expression was far less clear, and I demanded clarification. “You will see how the car will go!” It turned out that this is also a kind of detonator - a Bluetooth-activator of some, for me, mysterious, extraordinary capabilities of the car, which is evidenced by a ribbon with the inscription "M Performance" attached to the cylinder.
I can’t say that I don’t like the way the BMW X4 xDrive35i rides. It rides well! Four-wheel drive and 306 Bavarian "horses" under the hood - this is something. They may not make the right impression on the advanced owner of a 500-horsepower supercar, but for everyone else, the capabilities of such a car are clearly redundant. There is no point in specially measuring how accurately the acceleration time “to hundreds” declared by the manufacturer corresponds to reality. It is written on paper: five and a half seconds - one tenth faster than the donor model BMW X3 with the same engine. And, since we are talking about acceleration, as much as a third of a second slower than the diesel X4 35d. About her, in general, a special conversation. Out of habit, it seems just frighteningly harsh. Still, the torque of the flagship diesel for this model is one and a half times more than that of the top gasoline engine. And this whole moment spills out, all 630 Nm, in a fairly narrow and low range - from 1,500 to 2,500 rpm.
Our X4 xDrive35i behaves a little differently. When accelerated hard, the car accelerates forcefully, without a jerk, but with a noticeable increase in traction as the speed increases, as if you are being sucked into a giant funnel of time and space. Personally, at times, I had a feeling of teleportation, when, as soon as you mark a point ahead on the road with your eyes, you instantly find yourself in it, without even having time to estimate the trajectory of movement. I do not yet know how many cameras I happened to collect while moving around the city. I'll find out a little later, when the guys from BMW will carefully put all the sent "letters of happiness" into a separate folder and give it to me in the editor - for payment, please. Guilty, I'll fix it, I honestly trying to control himself!
I like everything, even very much. But if there is a magic button at hand, then one just wants to poke a finger at it and look for good from good. I press it twice, as they said, the LEDs on the cylinders start flashing alarming red, but on dashboard the car itself does not change. But the sound of the engine is immediately transformed. It gets louder and more aggressive. Wow! Judging by the sound, the in-line “turbo-six” under the hood was imperceptibly changed to a V8 with all the ensuing and outgoing consequences. A formidable roar during acceleration, distinct re-gassing to a cut-off when shifting gears ... It seems that the reaction to the gas pedal has become angrier, the suspension is stiffer, and the steering wheel is sharper. It seems to be the key word. To be honest, at first I bought into it myself. Only a little later, after reading the documentation and understanding everything, I realized that I was lied to like a child. When you press the activator button in the settings of the chassis of the car, absolutely nothing changes. Miracle gadget controls only ... solenoid valve exhaust system, which means it only affects the sound and nothing more! But the illusion, I repeat, is good.
It has long been noticed that it is worth changing just one, but clearly tangible by the driver, parameter, as it will seem to him that the car went differently. When I was working in a tuning workshop, we, I confess, often just changed the spring on the gas pedal, and then, in front of a blue eye, told customers about the “sporty” settings of his carburetor. And they believed us! Moreover, they not only believed, but felt that after our manipulations, the car finally went. It's exactly the same story here. Relatively inexpensive - much cheaper than "on the fly" reconfiguring the operation of the suspension, gearbox, power steering and changing the injection map, but angrily and damn effectively. Note that I said "effective" and not "effective". Feel the difference?
By the way, the Germans would not be Germans if they did not write in the instructions that the device meets all the highest BMW standards for quality, reliability and safety, and also allows two modes of operation: Sport and Track. The first is officially approved for road use. common use, and the second one is exclusively for closed slopes. And they differ from each other ... That's right, only in terms of volume and tone of sound! Track is apparently too loud for respectable Germany, where to straight-through mufflers treated much worse than ours.
I wonder how it will sound real BMW X4 M40i? I hope we get a chance to find out soon. And at the same time, check whether there is a need to overpay for it. Prices have already been announced for the base X4 M40i in Moscow, they will ask for 4,050,000 rubles, while for our BMW version X4 xDrive35i with the M-package will have to pay 3,476,500. And almost 200,000 more rubles (at prices in Germany) for exhaust system with M Performance magic valve...
| Specifications of the BMW X4 xDrive35i |
|
|---|---|
| DIMENSIONS, MM | 4671 x 1881 x 1624 |
| WHEELBASE, MM | |
| TURNING RADIUS, M | No data |
| GROUND CLEARANCE, MM | |
| CARGO VOLUME, L | |
| CURRENT WEIGHT, KG | |
