Feeling pressure from PorscheWhile stopping short of confirming a definitive production approval for the new SUV, AutoWeek's source suggested it had the backing of CEO Norbert Reithofer, who is expected to announce its addition to the lineup as part of BMW's plans to sell 2 million cars annually by 2020.
While the new X3 is aimed at strong-selling SUVs such as the Audi Q5 and the Mercedes-Benz GLK, the X4 will be targeted directly at the Porsche Cajun and an expected C-segment four-wheel-drive model from Alfa Romeo due in 2012.
Speaking about the Porsche Cajun, a BMW insider said: “This car is motivating our development department at the moment.”
North American market conditions are heavily influencing BMW's decision to bring the X4 here.
“We see this car competing in the same price bracket as premium wagons,” a source said. “We think it will appeal particularly to U.S. car buyers.”
The X4 is expected to come with a choice of four- and six-cylinder gasoline and diesel engines mated to a six-speed manual, a seven-speed dual-clutch or an eight-speed automatic transmission. Like the X3, BMW does not plan a two-wheel-drive option.
The X4 will use BMW's latest electronically controlled Dynamic Performance Control system, providing an individual proportioning of power to each rear wheel dependent upon prevailing traction.
Sitting at the top of the lineup will be a performance-orientated X4M model boasting styling upgrades, a future twin-turbocharged inline six-cylinder and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission from the BMW M division.
The X4's double-wishbone (front) and multilink (rear) suspension will be tuned to deliver more engaging handling than the X3, with a lowered ride height, reduced wheel travel, uprated antiroll bars and unique spring and dampers, the latter offering variable control.