The first images and details of BMW‘s M Performance version of their new X4 sports crossover named the M40i have slipped into the open.
Powering the new X4 M40i is a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six delivering 360PS (355hp) and 465Nm (343 lb-ft) of peak torque, an increase of 54PS (54hp) and 65Nm (48 lb-ft) over the Euro-spec X4 xDrive35i that remains in the range.
This hasn’t been confirmed, but it’s rumored that the M40i’s powerplant is earmarked for the upcoming M2 Coupe, possibly with further revised components.
We don’t have the full spec sheet in our hands yet, but the X4 M40i is expected to be paired to a reworked version of the standard model’s eight-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel paddle shifters and BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive.
BMW says the M Performance crossover reaches 100km/h (62mph) in 4.9 seconds, beating the 35i model by 0.6 seconds, while maintaining the same limited top speed of 250km/h (155mph).
Unless you’re well-versed in the BMW universe, you’ll have a hard time telling the X4 M40i apart from any X4 with an M Sport styling package. The only differences between the two are the sating grey trim accents on the front bumper’s corner air inlets and mirror caps, the bespoke 19-inch alloys in a staggered setup (245/45 front and 275/40 rear), and the single exhaust on either side of the rear bumper.
The only unique pieces inside appear to be the M40i-exclusive sports steering wheel borrowed from the…3-Series M Sport package and the door sills that bear the name of the model. The rest of the interior gets the same batch of upgrades as any other M Sport-equipped X4 like trim accents and sport front seats.
Thanks to Bimmertoday for the photos!
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