During a speech at the 2018 North American International Auto Show, BMW executive Dr. Nicolas Peter officially confirmed the next-generation BMW X4's arrival in 2018. It'll be part of a big year for SUVs at the German brand because the X2 and X7 will debut in the next 12 months, too.
Spy shots already let us see the new X4 without any camouflage. The model's design continues to prioritize style over utility. The front has a strong resemblance to the latest X3, and a long hood leads back to a flowing roof with a fastback-style tail. At the rear, skinny taillights wrap around the side of the crossover. The coupe-inspired SUV fad doesn't show signs of ending, but the new X4 certainly improves in looks over the previous generation.
Spy shots don't let us see inside the new X4, but the latest X3 should contribute most of its parts.
In addition to the standard variants, performance-minded buyers will have lots of options. The X4 M40i will pack a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine with 355 horsepower (265 kilowatts) and 369 pound-feet (500 Newton-meters) running through an eight-speed automatic to drive an all-wheel-drive system. Those that prefer diesel power can get the M40d with a detuned version of the quad-turbo 3.0-liter six from the 750d where the mill produces 394 hp (294 kW) and 560 lb-ft (760 Nm) of torque.
A full M version (spy shots above) is also on the way. It'll feature a more aggressive body kit and a quartet of oval exhausts at the back. Power will reportedly come from the company's latest biturbo 3.0-liter inline-six that will make around 450 hp (336 kW), which will be plenty to motivate the SUV.
