BMW X4 review - MPG, CO2 and running costs
Fantastic economy numbers don’t quite make up for the high running costs associated with big SUVs like the X4
Despite being a big and expensive SUV, the BMW X4’s impressive fuel economy keeps running costs down – although this is specific to the diesel-powered models. The entry-level xDrive20d model is capable of up to 49.6mpg on paper, although 45mpg is a figure that’s more likely to be expected in day-to-day driving.
The 3.0-litre diesel isn’t quite as frugal, although the differences are smaller than you’d expect. This comes courtesy not only of the inherent efficiency of BMW’s six-cylinder diesel, but the low-effort required to shift the X4’s mass in a majority of situations. As such, it can manage a claimed maximum of 45.6mpg, with real world figures not far off that figure. Emissions are quoted at 150g/km for the xDrive20d on its smallest available wheels, while the xDrive30d emits upwards of 163g/km of CO2.
The M40d’s takes another knock when it comes to figures, returning an average of 41.5mpg and emitting from 179g/km according to WLTP regulations, but the pay-off is very impressive performance that makes it a fantastic long-distance cruiser with very impressive in-gear acceleration.
Petrol models are predictably thirsty. The M40i has an official combined figure of up to 31.4mpg, although it’s tricky to crack 30mpg in real-world situations. The even hotter X4 M Competition drops this around 26mpg, but doing anything above 22mpg will be a good result in day-to-day driving.
What the fuel economy figures don’t tell you are the other running costs associated with driving such a big and heavy car. Tyres, brake pads and discs are all worked hard on cars like this, especially if you drive with some purpose. Models on bigger wheels obviously run on bigger tyres, and with a high-specification OEM fitment rubber like Michelin PS4s or high-end Continental ContiSport make replacement costs very high.
Insurance groups
The X4 xDrive20d M Sport model sits in group 33 for insurance which is broadly in line with its key rivals, but will result in above average premiums for most drivers and is also higher than the equivalent X3 model. The rest of the X4 range is rated between group 41 for the xDrive30d models, group 42 for the M40i and group 43 for the M40d, so insurance premiums will be a significant ongoing cost if you choose the higher-output models.
Depreciation
BMWs typically hold their value well compared to premium rivals, and the X4 is no exception, with an average of 55 per cent of its original value retained over a three-year/36,000-mile ownership period.
