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2018 BMW X4: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The most important change for the 2018 BMW X4 is that a rearview camera became standard across the lineup. Otherwise, this is a light equipment update and the final year of the first-generation X4 before the 2019 redesign.
About the 2018 BMW X4
1st generation (F26, 2015-2018), final year before the all-new 2019 redesign.
BMW sold the X4 as a "Sports Activity Coupe"—a compact luxury SUV that gives up some cargo and rear-seat practicality for a lower roofline, bolder styling, and a more driver-focused feel. Compared with the boxier X3, the X4 targeted shoppers who wanted standard all-wheel drive, elevated seating, and BMW road manners in a more dramatic shape. The appeal was less about maximum utility and more about style plus sporty everyday driving.
The xDrive28i is the everyday version, pairing standard all-wheel drive with a 240-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine, parking sensors, a power liftgate, and BMW’s iDrive touchscreen system. The M40i is the performance model, with a 355-hp turbocharged six-cylinder engine, sport-tuned suspension, leather sport seats, and Harman Kardon audio.
What changed, by category
Safety
A rearview camera became standard across the lineup. Broader driver-assistance features remained tied to option packages rather than becoming standard on both trims.
Tech
Smartphone integration became standard across the lineup. The underlying iDrive system otherwise carried over without a broad redesign.
2018 BMW X4 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6-Cyl, Turbo, 3.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Twin Turbo, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 8-Spd Spt Manual | Auto, 8-Spd Spt Manual |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 18 mpg | 20 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 25 mpg | 28 mpg |
| Horsepower | 355 hp | 240 hp |
| Torque | 343 lb-ft | 260 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 49.4 cu-ft | 49.4 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 34.8 in | 34.8 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Park Assist | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| 360 Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Touch Screen Monitor | ||
| Aluminum Interior Trim | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Wood Interior Trim | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2018 BMW X4?
The biggest change is that a rearview camera became standard across the 2018 X4 lineup. Smartphone integration also became standard, while the engines, styling, body structure, and main trim lineup carried over.
Is the 2018 BMW X4 a new generation?
No. The 2018 X4 is the final model year of the first-generation F26 model, which ran from 2015 through 2018. BMW introduced the fully redesigned second-generation X4 for 2019.
Did the 2018 BMW X4 get new engines?
No. The xDrive28i kept its 240-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, while the M40i retained its 355-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder. Both use an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.
How do the 2018 BMW X4 xDrive28i and M40i differ?
The xDrive28i is the everyday model with a 240-hp four-cylinder engine and practical features such as parking sensors and a power liftgate. The M40i is the performance-focused model with a 355-hp six-cylinder engine, sport-tuned suspension, leather sport seats, and upgraded Harman Kardon audio.
Did the 2018 BMW X4 add more standard safety equipment?
Yes, but the change was limited. A rearview camera became standard across the lineup, while broader driver-assistance systems remained tied to option packages rather than becoming standard on both trims.
2018 BMW X4 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2018 BMW X4.
4.3
2018 BMW X4
(68 reviews)
“My vehicle is elegant yet sporty at the same time. Smooth ride and good looking vehicle. Interior is excellent. I love the interior. Cameras all around make me feel secure during lane changes. I am very happy with my car.”
“This is a fantastic vehicle. It handles impeccably, has excellent performance and pick up, has a great presence on the roadway, yet is so luxurious, user friendly, and fun to drive!”