Mini X6: BMW X4 Concept Previews Future Production SAC

Mini X6: BMW X4 Concept Previews Future Production SAC The BMW X4 concept previews the automaker’s fifth addition to its X lineup, and is its second Sports Activity Coupe (SAC). Since the X4’s name has an even number, the crossover fits with other BMWs with coupe-like appeal, from the upcoming 4 Series line to the X6. The X4 that eventually makes its way into dealerships around the world will turn heads and please those who find the X5 too big and the X3 too popular.

Mini X6: BMW X4 Concept Previews Future Production SAC

Mini X6: BMW X4 Concept Previews Future Production SAC

 Mini X6: BMW X4 Concept Previews Future Production SAC

Mini X6: BMW X4 Concept Previews Future Production SAC

Mini X6 BMW X4 Concept Previews Future Production SAC1

Mini X6 BMW X4 Concept Previews Future Production SAC1

Mini X6 BMW X4 Concept Previews Future Production SAC1

Mini X6 BMW X4 Concept Previews Future Production SAC1

Mini X6 BMW X4 Concept Previews Future Production SAC1

Mini X6: BMW X4 Concept Previews Future Production SAC

BMW Concept X4 side 300x187 imageBMW says the X4 concept combines features from a traditional two-door and crossovers like the X1, X3, and X5. The first SAC, of course, is the X6, which BMW first introduced back in 2008. Sales of the X6 number 1264 units during the first quarter of 2013, up compared to the same period last year but below every other BMW model except the Z4.

The production-spec X4 will be produced at BMW’s U.S. plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina alongside the X3, X5, and X6 and should reach showrooms sometime next year. The concept’s overall length and wheelbase of 183 and 110.6 inches just about match the X3’s dimensions, but the X4 concept is 1.3 inches wider, at 75.4 inches. BMW didn’t provide any details on the X4’s interior, but it may arrive as a four-passenger hauler, with an optional fifth seat.

The BMW X4 that follows this X4 concept will cast a similar shadow as its bigger sibling, with a roofline that dramatically drops at the rear. The X4 concept, however, looks sharper than the X6 thanks especially from the side, which features two character lines with deep creases. All the trademark BMW design cues are found on the concept, including the twin-kidney front grille, quad-headlight design, the Hofmeister kink, and trapezoidal taillights. The concept is fitted with large 21-inch rims, but the BMW Concept X4 rear 300x187 imageproduction version will likely feature a smaller set. We also expect BMW to tone down the rear diffuser and the gaping front air scoops.

The base-model X4 should get the 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 making around 240 hp and 260 lb-ft. The 300-hp 3.0-liter turbo I-6 should also be on the table, and we wouldn’t count out a diesel powertrain following the recent announcement of the 328d oil-burner coming to the U.S. With the X3’s starting price of $39,745, we predict the X4’s MSRP to come in around $46,000. For now, the X4 SAC will stand alone in its niche, but we expect Mercedes-Benz and Audi to join the coupe-like SUV party soon.

Source: BMW