As the sportiest members of the X4 family, the BMW X4 M F98 and BMW X4 M Competition F98 combine elegant coupé design with uncompromising BMW M high performance. The first high-performance model in the X4 series came with numerous technical innovations. These included a high-revving inline six-cylinder engine, M xDrive all-wheel drive and a newly developed M specific chassis that strikes an impressive balance between driving dynamics and long-distance comfort. The avant-garde X4 M thus represented the typical BMW M fusion of high performance and everyday usability.
5 POWERFUL FACTS:
- First BMW X4 as a BMW M high-performance model
- Debut of the S58 engine
- Max. output: 353 kW (480 hp) / 375 kW (510 hp)*
- From 0 to 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds/ 4.1 seconds*
- Top speed 280 km/h** / 285 km/h*/**
* Figures for BMW X4 M Competition
** with optional M Driver’s Package
THE MOST POWERFUL SAC IN THE X4 FAMILY.
THE MOST POWERFUL SAC IN THE X4 FAMILY.
The BMW X4 M F98 is an uncompromising high-performance SAV in the shape of a coupé, which makes it an SAC. Under the bonnet it had the most powerful BMW six-cylinder engine at the time, newly developed by M GmbH. The inline six-cylinder engine, also known by its abbreviation S58, was extensively optimised by M GmbH for the demands of high-performance operation and was soon adapted with slight modifications for the M3 G80 and M4 G82 models as well, and from 2022 in the BMW M2 G87. Modifications included M TwinPower Turbo technology with two turbochargers operating on the mono-scroll principle and a forged crankshaft for maximum loads as well as race-track-proven oil supply and cooling concepts.
The high-revving 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine produces 353 kW (480 hp) while the Competition model delivers 375 kW (510 hp). The maximum torque peaks at a robust 600 Nm and is available from 2,600 to 5,600 rpm or up to 5,950 rpm in the Competition model. Both engines reach their maximum power at 6,250 rpm.
IMPRESSIVE PERFORMANCE.
IMPRESSIVE PERFORMANCE.
On the road, these figures translate into acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds, with the Competition variant reaching this mark in 4.1 seconds. The intelligent M xDrive all-wheel drive system for optimised traction and the 8-speed M Steptronic transmission with short shift times contribute to this result. Moreover, the M xDrive system, which was new at the time, transfers the drive forces with a rear-biased design, combining the traction advantages of all-wheel drive with the typical M driving dynamics of classic rear-wheel drive.
The top speed of the X4 M F98 and X4 M Competition F98 is electronically limited to 250 km/h. The optional M Driver’s Package increases this value to 280 km/h, or 285 km/h for the Competition model.
TECHNICALLY OPTIMISED FOR MAXIMUM DRIVING DYNAMICS.
TECHNICALLY OPTIMISED FOR MAXIMUM DRIVING DYNAMICS.
Model-specific modifications deliver the agility, dynamism and precision typical of BMW M cars, equipping the BMW X4 M F98 with driving dynamics that are exceptional in their class.
The electromechanical M Servotronic steering, which adapts the steering ratio and steering torque to the speed and driving situation, is characterised by maximum precision and ideal responsiveness. Steering precision and responsiveness are further enhanced by extensive measures to stiffen the body and chassis connection.
The chassis design has also been thoroughly adapted to the specific requirements of the utility sports car with M specific modifications. The front and rear axles have independent kinematic and elastokinematic properties that improve wheel guidance and tracking stability. The stability of the body is further improved by M specific struts in the front end, such as the precision strut in the engine compartment connecting the suspension strut domes.
DYNAMIC HANDLING.
DYNAMIC HANDLING.
Overall, the chassis optimisations result in precise, controllable handling, even when cornering, and reduced roll, providing the vehicle with outstanding driving dynamics on the road and on the racetrack.
The performance characteristics of the X4 M F98 and X4 M Competition F98 are rounded off by the extremely powerful standard M Compound brake system. It delivers excellent deceleration performance, which is further enhanced by a range of assistance systems.
STRONG CHARACTER.
STRONG CHARACTER.
The design of the BMW X4 M F98 and BMW X4 M Competition F98 is characterised by unmistakable M styling and is consistently geared towards the functional requirements of a high-performance car. On the outside, powerful wheel arches, striking aprons and large air intakes define the appearance. The eye-catching air intakes at the front of the vehicle ensure optimum feed of cooling air to the high-performance components of the engine, transmission and brake system. The BMW kidney grille with black M specific double bars, which also features a High-gloss Black frame on the Competition model, underlines the dynamic appearance. Other M specific design elements, such as the specially designed M exterior mirrors and rear spoiler, emphasise the high-performance character and optimise aerodynamics.
The vehicle comes standard with 20-inch M light alloy wheels in a double-spoke design in a polished Orbit Grey finish, while the Competition model features 21-inch light alloy wheels in polished Jet Black.
The rear end of the X4 M also makes a powerful impression. The sleek, three-dimensional rear lights elegantly wrap around the rear and wheel arches, emphasising the width of the sporty SAC.
Additional individual accents can be added with the optional M Carbon exterior package, which includes design elements made of carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) for the front air intakes and the aeroblades on the front apron, the rear diffuser and the exterior mirror caps.
DISTINCTIVE SOUND.
DISTINCTIVE SOUND.
Another striking feature at the rear of the X4 M is its four-pipe exhaust system, which has been specially tuned to the new inline six-cylinder engine. This is particularly noticeable in the rich engine sound, which is characteristic of this system with electronic flap control. The sound development is also linked to the engine characteristics and varies depending on the selected driving mode.
Regarding the standard equipment of the Competition model, it includes the M Sport exhaust system, which is distinguished by a characteristically sonorous timbre under load and at high revs and also delivers a particularly varied sound thanks to continuously variable exhaust flaps.
RACING ATMOSPHERE IN THE INTERIOR.
RACING ATMOSPHERE IN THE INTERIOR.
The interior of the BMW X4 M F98 follows the proven BMW M equipment and design philosophy: driver-oriented cockpit, contoured sports seats with strong lateral support, M specific instrument cluster, M leather steering wheel and a newly designed M gear selector. The standard sports seats in Vernasca leather, available in Black or Oyster, feature an embossed M logo in the backrests. The Competition model came with extended Merino leather upholstery as standard. As did the M Sport seats, optional for the X4 M, with their distinctive bucket seat character, which feature an illuminated M logo in the headrests.
In addition, the space concept of the high-performance SAC proves to be practical in terms of daily routine and travel comfort. Even with its elegant coupé roof line, the X4 M offers sufficient space in the rear. The 525-litre boot capacity further underlines its everyday potential. Folding down the rear seats expands this capacity to up to 1,430 litres.
MODEL UPDATE IN 2021.
MODEL UPDATE IN 2021.
With an even more powerful look, the model update of the BMW X4 M Competition F98 entered the second phase of its model cycle in 2021. The enlarged BMW M kidney grille with its new one-piece frame and the flatter headlights are the most apparent features of the updated design. The more expressive front apron stands out with a new central air intake that is flatter and wider, while the side air intakes are now arranged vertically.
The model update also features fresh accents at the rear. The new rear apron has a wide, offset insert in the shape of an anvil in High-gloss Black, creating a particularly powerful appearance.
New colours such as M Carbon Black metallic and M Sao Paulo Yellow rounded off the range. Matt paint finishes and BMW Individual paint finishes were also available for the first time.
HIGH-REVVING ENGINE WITH EVEN MORE TORQUE.
HIGH-REVVING ENGINE WITH EVEN MORE TORQUE.
The model update also brought a performance boost for the BMW X4 M Competition F98. The maximum torque of the 375 kW (510 hp) inline six-cylinder engine was increased by 50 Nm to 650 Nm resulting in a decrease of the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h, which the Competition now completed in 3.8 seconds. In a performance test by the German car magazine ‘auto motor und sport’, the BMW X4 M F98 broke the 200 km/h mark after just 13.9 seconds, putting it at the top of the competition.
MAXIMISED PEFORMANCE AND CHARACTERISTIC DESIGN.
The first X4 with BMW M high-performance drive appealed to drivers who appreciate the presence of a utility vehicle but want the elegant design language of an M coupé. With it, M GmbH also brought the high-performance Sports Activity Coupé to the premium mid-range segment. Sporty presence, high performance and everyday practicality combine in the BMW X4 M F98 and BMW X4 M Competition F98 to create a harmonious overall package that set standards in the segment. With its distinctive, original design, it has had a lasting impact on the vehicle class, right up to the present day.
