BMW X4 Concept debuts at 2013 Shanghai Motor Show
BMW revealed the X4 Concept at the Shanghai Motor Show, previewing a coupé-styled SUV positioned below the X6 and based on the X3 platform.
BMW unveiled its X4 Concept at the 2013 Shanghai Motor Show, marking the first public showing of a new coupé-inspired SUV that will sit beneath the X6 in the company's line-up. The X4 Concept previews a production model expected to launch in 2014, offering a sportier alternative to the X3 with a sloping roofline and more aggressive styling.
Design and dimensions
The X4 Concept draws heavily from the larger X6, adopting a coupé silhouette with a pronounced sloping roof and wide stance. BMW has given the concept a sculpted bonnet, prominent kidney grille, and large air intakes. Plastic cladding and underbody protection signal the car’s SUV credentials, while LED headlights and a new front fascia highlight BMW’s current design language. The rear features an integrated diffuser and horizontal light clusters, reinforcing the car’s width and road presence.
Though BMW did not release full dimensions at the Shanghai show, the X4 Concept shares its basic platform with the X3, suggesting similar wheelbase and interior space. The main distinction is the lower, coupé-style roof, which sacrifices some rear headroom for a more dynamic profile.
Technical details and expected engines
BMW did not confirm engine options for the concept, but the production X4 is expected to use the same powertrains as the X3. That would mean a range of four- and six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, including the 2.0-litre TwinPower Turbo petrol and the 3.0-litre inline-six, both already familiar from the X3 and X5. The concept’s show car status means no technical specifications were published at launch.
Market positioning and rivals
With the X4, BMW aims to expand the appeal of its SUV range to customers who want the raised ride height and all-wheel drive of an X3, but with the styling cues of a sports coupé. The X4 is positioned to compete with models such as the forthcoming Mercedes-Benz GLA Concept, also revealed at Shanghai, and other premium compact SUVs with a design-led focus.
- Coupé-inspired SUV segment grows with X4 and Mercedes-Benz GLA Concept
- Production X4 expected to launch in 2014, following strong interest in X6
BMW’s decision to debut the X4 Concept in Shanghai reflects the importance of the Chinese market for premium SUVs. The company said it expects continued growth in demand for these models, even as overall sales in China begin to moderate.
For more on the X4’s journey from concept to production, seeBMW X4 Concept unveiled ahead of Shanghai debut.
