3 ways BMW X4 M40i delivers for performance enthusiasts

When we drove the X4 xDrive 35i earlier this year, we were impressed with its 300hp and 300 lb ft of torque developed by the TwinPower turbocharged direct injection 3.0-liter six-cylinder. Now BMW has pumped up the thrill level by introducing the BMW X4 M40i that makes its global debut at the Detroit Auto Show next month. Why is it going to be a performance enthusiasts dream SUV?

The new X4 M40i gets the same TwinPower Turbo technology inline 6-cylinder engine as the X4 35i, but BMW M GmbH engineers bumped up the performance numbers to 355 hp and 343 lb-ft of torque. This is an increase in performance of nearly 18 percent compared to the BMW X4 xDrive35i. This will ramp up the fun-to-drive meter considerably. BMW says the X4 M40i will launch from 0-60 mph in just 4.7 seconds giving the Sports Activity Coupe (SAC) best-in-class acceleration.

The chassis also gets tweaks from BMW M and it features a chassis tuned to M Performance specs that will dial up driver engagement for performance enthusiasts. The SAC will feature an xDrive all-wheel-drive system that sends power to the rear wheels under normal driving situations that will make the X4 M40i respond like a rear drive sports car.

Performance enthusiasts can order the X4 M40i with optional two-tone 20-inch double-spoke light-alloy wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires. This performance tire mix (front 245/40 R20, rear 275/35 R20) will keep the new SAC firmly planted during more spirited driving. With the increased performance, BMW also increased the size of the front brake discs and upgraded the pads on all four wheels for better stopping performance.

The new BMW X4 M40i is making its global debut at the North American International Auto Show on January 11, 2016 along side the new BMW M2 Coupe. The X4 M40i will be one fun family hauler and will available in U.S. showrooms in February 2016. Pricing will be announced closer to the dealer launch date.

Source: BMW USA