BMW X4 vs BMW X6 | Which is Right for You?
22nd May 2024
BMW SUVs
BMW introduced their first SUV, the BMW X5, back in 1999. Since then, BMW have evolved their SUV range due to growing demand from consumers, which has given birth to more compact offerings such as the BMW X3 and BMW X1.
BMW then introduced coupé SUVs in the form of the BMW X6, BMW X4 and BMW X2, before a more traditionally shaped SUV in the form of a range-topping and ultra-luxurious BMW X7 completed the range.
This article will look at the difference between the mid to large coupé SUVs in the form of the BMW X4 and BMW X6.
Introduction and Design
The X6 was BMW's first coupé SUV, or 'Sports Activity Coupé' in BMW terminology. It was introduced in 2007 and was essentially an SUV for those who wanted a sleeker offering.
BMW ensured the more compact X4 joined their coupé SUV range in 2014. The BMW X6 is essentially a sleeker BMW X5, whilst the BMW X4 (pictured above) is pretty much a more svelte BMW X3.
Today, side by side, the BMW X4 and BMX X6 are similar in their appearance, with the X6 offering more space and size, whilst the X4 is a more compact version. Both models are not exactly small, however, and in typical BMW fashion, both cater to different buyers, whilst an even smaller X2 SUV is available if the X4 and X6 are not the coupé SUVs for you.
Both the BMW X4 and BMW X6 feature a design language from the more sporty side of BMW. There is no chrome trim, small alloy wheels or lesser trim choices, instead it is a case of M Sport at a minimum for these cars in terms of trim level, meaning even as standard there are lots of gloss black details and more aggressive styling on show, to complement their more dynamic coupé lines.
Versions
Both BMW X4 and BMW X6 offer petrol and diesel engines, along with each model featuring a range-topping high performance M version, in the form of the BMW X4 M Competition and BMW X6 M Competition.
Being coupé SUVs, it comes as no surprise to see the BMW X4 and BMW X6 trim choice starts with the popular BMW M Sport trim. Some BMW models start with the lesser 'SE' or 'Sport' models, but due to these SUVs style-conscious presence, it perhaps comes as no surprise that M Sport is the base trim.
There is the scope for a M40i in the X4 or M60i in the X6, which are essentially high performance versions of the M Sport, but with more performance-focused engines. Below, the various models/trim/engines are listed for clarity.
BMW X4
- M Sport - Available with a 2.0-litre diesel - 187bp (0 to 62mph in 7.9 seconds) or a 3.0-litre diesel - 254bhp (0 to 62mph in 5.7 seconds)
- M40i - Available with a 3.0-litre petrol - 349bhp (0 to 62mph in 4.9 seconds)
- M40d - Availanle with a 3.0-litre diesel - 326bhp (0 to 62mph in 4.9 seconds)
- M Competition - 3.0-litre twin turbo petrol - 503bhp (0 to 62mph in 4.1 seconds)
BMW X6
- M Sport - Available with a 3.0-litre petrol (0 to 62mph in 5.4 seconds) or a 3.0-litre diesel (0 to 62mph in 5.5 or 6.1 seconds depending on spec)
- M60i - Available with a 4.4-litre twin turbo V8 - 523bhp (0 to 62mph in 4.3 seconds)
- M Competition (pictured above) - Available with a 4.4-litre twin turbo V8 - 625bhp (0 to 62mph in 3.9 seconds)
Interior and Technology
The BMW X6 interior (pictured above) is a little more up to date, than the BMW X4. Both feature digital instrument clusters and infotainment screens, however the X6 features the latest widescreen instrument/infotainment set-up, as seen in the latest BMW models. Alternatively, the X4's set up is separated, using a more traditional dashboard layout, with the instrument panel in a cove, and the infotainment screen in the middle of the dashboard.
Being BMWs, things like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come as standard, and there are multiple apps you can download, along with updates which can make either the X4 or X6 feel bang up to date.
As for interior quality, both these BMW SUVs feel supremely refined, with different leather options and each offering is intuitive, and a pleasure to use and operate, with multiple drive modes to enhance or tailor the driving experience when necessary.
Practicality
Both the BMW X4 (pictured above) and BMW X6 offer exceptional levels of practicality, being large SUV models.
The BMW X4 has plenty of interior space, and a vast boot size of 525 litres, which increases to 1,430 litres with the rear seats folded. The larger BMW X6 again has lots of interior space, with a larger 580-litre boot, increasing to 1,530 litres with the rear seats folded.
With both models featuring a sweeping roofline, rear headroom for adults is comprised in comparison to the X4 and X6 siblings, in the form of the X3 and X5 respectively, with their more traditional SUV bodystyles.
Value and Final Thoughts
BMW have left no space untouched in their quest to offer every size of SUV a consumer could want, if they are in the market for a BMW SUV.
Both the BMW X4 and BMW X6 are fine coupé SUVs, which will appeal to those wanting a more style-conscious SUV.
The BMW X6 (pictured above) certainly has more of a road presence, but with it will come slightly higher running costs. The X4 is a fine BMW SUV and will appeal to those who like the X6, but maybe want a more compact package.
It mirrors the BMW car range perfectly. If you like the idea of a M3, but in a more compact package, the M2 is not a bad solution, and many prefer the smaller performance cars. This is essentially the same principal, just in BMW SUV terms.
No matter which you choose, the BMW X4 and BMW X6 are typically solid, well-rounded and superb driving SUVs.
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