The 2021 BMW X4 is the fastback version of the X3: the same platform and dashboard, with a sloping roofline that trades some practicality for style. It started at about $52,595 for the xDrive30i, climbed to about $62,700 for the M40i, and topped out in the mid $70,000s for the X4 M. All three come with standard all wheel drive and an eight speed automatic. Here is how they compare and which one is worth buying.
2021 BMW X4 price and specs by version
| Version | Engine | Power | 0 to 60 mph | Combined mpg | Starting price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| xDrive30i | 2.0 liter turbo four | 248 hp, 258 lb ft | About 6 seconds | 24 mpg | About $52,600 |
| M40i | 3.0 liter turbo inline six | 382 hp, 369 lb ft | About 4.4 seconds | 23 mpg | About $62,700 |
| X4 M | 3.0 liter turbo inline six | 473 hp, 457 lb ft | About 3.9 seconds | 17 mpg | Mid $70,000s |
| X4 M with Competition Package | Same engine, more power | 503 hp, 479 lb ft | About 3.7 seconds | 17 mpg | Several thousand more |
Prices before options and local fees. The Competition Package is an option on the X4 M for 2021, replacing the separate Competition model.
How much is a 2021 BMW X4 today?
New prices are no longer relevant, so most buyers are looking at used cars. Typical used values start around $27,000 to $28,000 for an xDrive30i and around $33,000 for an M40i. Mileage, options and condition move these numbers a lot. Compare current listings before you buy.
What changed for 2021
The X4 mostly carried over, with a few useful additions:
- Active Driving Assistant became standard. It includes forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, low speed automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind spot warning and rear cross traffic warning.
- Android Auto was added.
- The M40i gained wireless phone charging and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
- The X4 M Competition became an option package on the X4 M.
The X4 is built in Spartanburg, South Carolina.
How the X4 drives
xDrive30i: the 248 hp four cylinder is quick enough for most drivers and gives the best fuel economy, rated at 24 mpg combined. It is the sensible choice if you want the styling and BMW handling without a big fuel bill.
M40i: the 382 hp turbo six is the favorite of many reviewers. It adds a sport exhaust, adaptive dampers and upgraded brakes, and it is far quicker than the base car. It rides firm but not harshly, and fuel economy drops by just one mpg.
X4 M: a focused performance crossover with 473 hp, or 503 hp with the Competition Package. It is very fast and rewarding, but the ride is stiff, and fuel economy falls to about 17 mpg combined.
All versions handle well for a tall crossover, though the standard 3 Series sedan is still the sharper car.
Interior and cargo space
The cabin is well made and nearly identical to the X3’s, with a digital instrument cluster and a clear infotainment screen. Some of the controls take time to learn. The sloping roof cuts into rear headroom and cargo space, so the X4 offers roughly 18 cubic feet behind the rear seats, noticeably less than the X3. If you carry tall passengers or bulky items often, the X3 is the more practical choice.
X4 rivals
The X4 competed with the Mercedes GLC Coupe, the Porsche Macan and the Audi Q5 Sportback, and with the Alfa Romeo Stelvio. The Macan is the sportier choice, and the GLC Coupe is the more comfortable one. The X4 sits between them, with a strong engine lineup and a well finished cabin.
Which 2021 X4 should you buy?
The M40i is the best overall pick, since it balances speed, comfort and price. Choose the xDrive30i if you want lower costs and better mileage. Choose the X4 M only if you want maximum performance and accept the stiff ride and high fuel use. If cargo room matters more than looks, buy an X3 instead.
Buying a used 2021 X4
- Ask for full service records. BMWs reward regular maintenance.
- Test drive on rough roads and listen for suspension noise.
- Check tire wear, since wide performance tires are expensive on M40i and X4 M cars.
- Test every electronic feature, including the infotainment system and driver assistance.
- Look for accident repairs and check the VIN for open recalls.
- Budget for higher than average parts and service costs.
FAQ
How much is a 2021 BMW X4?
It started at about $52,595 new. Used examples start around $27,000 to $28,000.
How much horsepower does it have?
248 hp in the xDrive30i, 382 hp in the M40i, 473 hp in the X4 M and 503 hp with the Competition Package.
How fast is the 2021 X4 M40i?
About 4.4 seconds from 0 to 60 mph.
How many mpg does it get?
About 24 mpg combined for the xDrive30i and 23 for the M40i. The X4 M gets about 17.
Does the 2021 X4 come with all wheel drive?
Yes, xDrive is standard on every version.
Where is the X4 built?
In Spartanburg, South Carolina.