2022 BMW X4 M Review

BMW just loves filling niches. Who would have thought the then-controversial X6 would spawn an entire subgenre of fastback SUVs back when BMW introduced it for 2008? The BMW X4 follows in its larger sibling's footsteps by combining a sloped roofline with the high ride height of an SUV. And then there's the 2022 BMW X4 M. This is the one to get if you want extra performance to back up the X4's aggressive look.

The X4 M, with its turbocharged 473-horsepower six-cylinder engine and sport-tuned adaptive suspension, is mechanically identical to the X3 M. Where they differ, of course, is aft of the rear doors. The BMW X4 M's raked rear end lends it a sleeker profile, though that comes at the expense of cargo space and rear visibility. If that seems like a fair trade-off to you, then you'll be glad to know the coupe-ified M SUV drives just as well as the X3 M — which is to say it's remarkably quick and agile for a sport ute.

Both models also have updated front and rear styling for 2022. We're not sure the bigger grille and slimmer headlights are improvements, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Less controversial is the retuned engine, which produces more torque than before and helps quickens acceleration. BMW says the 2022 X4 M is 0.2 second quicker to 60 mph than last year's car, highlighted by the 3.7-second time in the X4 M Competition model.

In spite of its relatively high center of gravity, the X4 M is surprisingly tossable on curvy back roads and freeway off-ramps. Meanwhile, the M-tuned xDrive all-wheel-drive system and responsive inline-six engine have optimal grip and explosive power ready for you as you come out of the corner. The M-specific brakes are another highlight, imparting the X4 M with enhanced stopping power while also looking great behind the SUV's standard 20-inch wheels.

Overall we're of mixed opinion on the X4 M. As a fleet-footed coupe-style small SUV, it certainly excels. But whether that's a vehicle you should be spending your money on — rather than the more practical X3 M or Jaguar F-Pace SVR — is open to debate.

The 2022 BMW X4 M comes in two basic variants: the standard X4 M and the X4 M Competition. Both are powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine. In the standard X4 M, it makes 473 horsepower and 457 lb-ft of torque and sends power to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic.