Last updated August 4, 2026
The BMW X4 lineup starts with the xDrive28i and xDrive30i, the everyday versions with coupe-style SUV looks, standard all-wheel drive, and balanced turbo four-cylinder power. The short-lived xDrive35i is the stronger six-cylinder step-up in the regular range. The M40i is the dedicated performance branch, combining a more powerful inline-six with sharper suspension tuning.
The Core Model trim level — xDrive28i and xDrive30i — is the everyday X4, blending coupe-style SUV design, standard all-wheel drive, and balanced turbo power.
Best for: Drivers who want the X4’s distinctive shape, year-round traction, and everyday comfort without a stronger performance focus.
Highlights
The Enhanced Power trim level — the xDrive35i — is the stronger regular X4, centered on smooth six-cylinder power rather than dedicated performance tuning.
Best for: Shoppers considering an early X4 who want easier acceleration and a richer standard audio system without moving to the M40i’s sharper character.
Highlights
Compared with the Core Model, the xDrive35i adds a 300-hp inline-six, torque-vectoring all-wheel drive, variable sport steering, and Harman Kardon audio.
2 in stock
The High Performance trim level — the M40i — is the sharper street-performance X4, with stronger acceleration and suspension tuning for a more serious driving feel.
Best for: Drivers who want the X4’s style and everyday usefulness with quicker responses and a more performance-focused feel.
Highlights
Compared with Enhanced Power, the M40i moves further toward street performance with more power and Adaptive M Suspension; recent models are rated at 382 hp.
12 in stock| Feature | Core Model | Enhanced Power | High Performance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Includes | xDrive28i, xDrive30i39 in stock | xDrive35i2 in stock | M40i12 in stock |
| Engine | 2.0L turbo four-cylinder | 3.0L turbo inline-six | 3.0L turbo inline-six |
| Rated output | 240 hp in xDrive28i; 248 hp in xDrive30i | 300 hp | 382 hp in recent models |
| Handling focus | Everyday-focused X4 tuning | Torque-vectoring AWD; variable sport steering | Adaptive M Suspension |
| Cabin highlight | iDrive; 12.3-inch touchscreen on recent xDrive30i models | Harman Kardon surround sound | 12.3-inch touchscreen in recent years |
The names mainly identify engine and performance level. xDrive means all-wheel drive. The xDrive28i and xDrive30i are four-cylinder core models, the early xDrive35i uses a six-cylinder engine, and the M40i is the sharper six-cylinder performance version.
It depends on the era. The xDrive28i was the core four-cylinder trim from 2015 through 2018. The redesigned X4 renamed that role xDrive30i for 2019 through 2025.
The xDrive28i is the first-generation X4's everyday four-cylinder trim. It pairs a 240-hp turbo engine with all-wheel drive and includes useful features such as a power liftgate, dual-zone climate control, a rearview camera, and parking sensors.
The xDrive35i is the early six-cylinder step-up sold for 2015 and 2016. Its main advantage over the xDrive28i is a smoother, stronger 300-hp turbo engine. It also includes Harman Kardon audio and adaptive xenon headlights.
The xDrive30i is the second-generation X4's core trim. It uses a 248-hp turbo four-cylinder engine, an eight-speed automatic, and all-wheel drive. Newer examples also feature a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a broad driver-assistance suite.
The M40i is the X4's street-performance trim. It combines a turbocharged six-cylinder engine with all-wheel drive and an adaptive sport suspension, giving it stronger acceleration and sharper handling than the regular four-cylinder model.
The xDrive35i mainly adds a 300-hp turbo six-cylinder engine over the xDrive28i's 240-hp turbo four-cylinder. It also brings Harman Kardon audio and adaptive xenon lighting, while keeping the same first-generation X4 body and all-wheel drive.
The xDrive30i is the everyday four-cylinder X4, while the M40i is the performance-focused six-cylinder model. On newer examples, output rises from 248 hp to 382 hp, and the M40i adds an adaptive sport suspension for more serious handling.
The M40i is the more performance-focused six-cylinder X4. The early xDrive35i makes 300 hp and emphasizes smooth, strong power. The M40i arrived with 355 hp, sharper chassis tuning, and richer equipment, and newer versions make 382 hp.
The xDrive28i or xDrive30i is the sensible everyday pick, depending on generation. Both deliver the X4's all-wheel drive, coupe-style body, and useful cabin features without the M40i's stronger engine and more aggressive suspension tuning.
Look for the M40i. It is the sharper X4 trim, with a turbo six-cylinder engine, all-wheel drive, and adaptive sport suspension. The xDrive35i is another six-cylinder choice among early first-generation examples, but it is less performance-focused.
The xDrive35i and M40i have turbocharged inline-six engines. The xDrive35i was an early 300-hp step-up trim, while the M40i became the ongoing performance model. The xDrive28i and xDrive30i use turbo four-cylinder engines.
Yes. The M40i uses an adaptive sport suspension that adjusts to driving conditions and gives the X4 a sharper, more performance-focused feel. The regular xDrive28i and xDrive30i are aimed more at everyday driving.