Last updated August 4, 2026
The BMW X4 M lineup starts with the Performance trim level, sold simply as the base X4 M. It delivers the core formula: a five-seat, coupe-roof SUV with 473 horsepower, all-wheel drive, and handling hardware developed for serious performance. The High Performance trim level is the Competition model. It turns up the intensity with 503 horsepower, a sport exhaust, more supportive seats, 21-inch wheels, and darker exterior details.
The Performance trim level, sold as the base X4 M, is the core full-M model with sharp handling and everyday all-wheel-drive usability.
Best for: Drivers who want the full X4 M experience without the Competition model's harder-edged extras.
Highlights
The High Performance trim level, represented by the Competition model, is the more aggressive X4 M with extra power, a louder character, and a more track-focused look and cabin.
Best for: Drivers who want the sharpest factory version and value stronger performance, a sportier sound, and Competition-specific details.
Highlights
Adds 30 horsepower, an M Sport exhaust, 21-inch wheels, gloss-black exterior details, and more heavily bolstered M Sport seats over the Performance trim level.
1 in stock| Feature | Performance | High Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Includes | base3 in stock | Competition1 in stock |
| Horsepower | 473 hp | 503 hp |
| All-wheel-drive setup | 4WD and 4WD Sport modes | Rear-drive feel; rear Active M Differential |
| Sport exhaust | — | M Sport exhaust |
| Front seats | — | Extended Merino leather M Sport seats |
| Wheels and exterior details | — | 21-inch wheels; gloss-black trim |
The core model is simply called X4 M or Base. The more aggressive version is called Competition. Competition began as a separate model at launch, then became an optional package on later X4 Ms rather than a stand-alone trim.
It depends on the model year. Competition was a separate version when the X4 M launched for 2020. From 2021 onward, BMW treated it as a Competition Package added to the base X4 M.
Competition is the harder-edged version. It raises output from 473 to 503 horsepower and adds a sport exhaust, 21-inch wheels, gloss-black exterior details, and more supportive M Sport front seats with extended Merino leather.
The Competition specification makes 503 horsepower, which is 30 more than the standard X4 M's 473 horsepower. Both use a twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six and an eight-speed sport automatic transmission.
Yes. The base X4 M has the full performance foundation: a 473-hp twin-turbo six, performance all-wheel drive, adaptive M suspension, upgraded M brakes, launch control, and an eight-speed sport automatic with paddle shifters.
Competition adds a 503-hp tune, an M Sport exhaust, 21-inch alloy wheels, gloss-black exterior trim, and heavily bolstered M Sport seats covered in extended Merino leather. It keeps the X4 M's adaptive suspension and all-wheel drive.
The standard X4 M is the more straightforward everyday pick. It already has 473 horsepower, all-wheel drive, adaptive suspension, upgraded brakes, and the same five-seat fastback body without paying extra attention to Competition-specific power and styling.
Look for the Competition specification. It is the more aggressive X4 M, with 503 horsepower, a sport exhaust, 21-inch wheels, more supportive front seats, and darker exterior details.
No. Both versions use BMW's twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six. Competition uses a stronger 503-hp tune, while the standard X4 M makes 473 horsepower.
Yes. Competition models use more heavily bolstered M Sport front seats in extended Merino leather. Their extra side support suits the version's more track-focused character.
Competition models are identified by 21-inch alloy wheels, gloss-black Competition exterior details, and a sport exhaust. Inside, they have more heavily bolstered M Sport seats with extended Merino leather.
Yes. Competition keeps performance all-wheel drive rather than switching to rear-wheel drive. Its system is tuned to feel rear-driven and works with an active rear differential to help distribute power.
On newer X4 Ms, the core equipment includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument display, a 12.3-inch center screen, M performance displays, forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and speed-limit information.