“It is extremely fun to drive but is thirsty at the pump, so if you care about MPG this may not be the car for you.”
2020 BMW X4 M: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The big change for 2020 is the debut of the first-ever BMW X4 M. It launches with a 473-hp twin-turbo six, while the harder-edged Competition version raises output to 503 hp.
About the 2020 BMW X4 M
1st generation BMW X4 M (F98), first year; based on the second-generation X4 body.
BMW positions the X4 M as a high-performance fastback SUV for shoppers who want more visual drama than the X3 M without giving up everyday usefulness. Its core appeal is the mix of a high-revving turbo six, all-wheel-drive traction tuned to feel more rear-driven, and full M chassis hardware in a small luxury SUV with a coupe-like roofline. It stands out by blending serious straight-line speed and cornering grip with a usable cabin and cargo area.
The 2020 X4 M is the full-performance version of BMW’s sloped-roof X4 SUV, balancing everyday usefulness with road-and-track hardware. The base model has adaptive suspension, leather sport seats, navigation and Apple CarPlay, while the Competition adds a sport exhaust, 21-inch wheels and more heavily bolstered leather seats.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The X4 M debuts with a 473-hp twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six, an eight-speed sport automatic and rear-biased all-wheel drive. The Competition version uses a 503-hp tune and a sport exhaust.
Structural
BMW gives the first X4 M a heavily reworked performance chassis with adaptive suspension, front-end bracing, stronger braking hardware and an active rear differential.
Styling
The Competition version receives 21-inch wheels, gloss-black exterior details and more heavily bolstered M Sport seats with extended Merino leather.
Tech
Both versions feature touchscreen infotainment with navigation and Apple CarPlay, Harman Kardon surround-sound audio and adaptive full-LED headlights.
Safety
Both versions come with BMW’s basic Active Driving Assistant safety suite.
2020 BMW X4 M specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6-Cyl, Twin Turbo, 3.0 Liter | 6-Cyl, Twin Turbo, 3.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 8-Spd M Sport w/Drivelogic, Sport & Manual Modes | Automatic, 8-Spd M Sport w/Drivelogic, Sport & Manual Modes |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 14 mpg | 14 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 19 mpg | 19 mpg |
| Horsepower | 473 hp | 503 hp |
| Torque | 442 lb-ft | 442 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 50.5 cu-ft | 50.5 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35.5 in | 35.5 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Park Assist | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
Is 2020 the first year of the BMW X4 M?
Yes. The 2020 model is the first-ever BMW X4 M and the opening year of the F98 generation, which is based on the second-generation X4 body.
What engine does the 2020 BMW X4 M have?
The 2020 BMW X4 M has a twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six. It makes 473 hp in the base model and 503 hp in the Competition version, with both using an eight-speed sport automatic.
What is the difference between the 2020 X4 M and X4 M Competition?
The 2020 X4 M Competition is the more track-focused version. It increases output from 473 to 503 hp and adds a sport exhaust, 21-inch wheels, gloss-black exterior trim and more heavily bolstered leather seats.
Does the 2020 BMW X4 M have all-wheel drive?
Yes. Every 2020 X4 M has rear-biased all-wheel drive designed to feel more like rear-wheel drive, along with an active rear differential that helps distribute power between the rear wheels.
Does the 2020 BMW X4 M have Apple CarPlay and driver-assistance features?
Yes. Both 2020 X4 M versions have Apple CarPlay, navigation and BMW’s basic Active Driving Assistant safety suite. They also include Harman Kardon surround-sound audio and adaptive full-LED headlights.
2020 BMW X4 M Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2020 BMW X4 M.
4.4
2020 BMW X4 M
(34 reviews)
“Great diving and handling. Probably rank the X4 as one of the best smaller cars I have owned.”
“BMW X4 M is a great performance vehicle with shorter wheel base and easier to handle. Parking and visibility during driving are superb. Acceleration, Braking, and Handling are easier than x6M because of its smaller size.”