![]() ![]() Options: M Sport package, $2900 Dynamic handling package, $1200 Premium package – heated wheel and front seats, head-up display, lumbar support, $950 M Sport 20-in wheels and performance tires, $600 Dark Graphite metallic paint, $550 Vehicle Type: front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door hatchback The standard Sport seat seems comfortable initially, though as the hours wear on, one becomes aware that the cushion is rather narrow. Characteristic of BMWs, the driver is well placed behind the wheel, and the pilot benefits from a large dead pedal. As you'd expect, the view over your shoulder or out the rearview mirror is compromised by the squashed rear side windows, more obstructive rear pillars, and sloped liftgate glass. The driver's seating position is just 0.6 inch lower, but front headroom is 1.6 inches less, and the A-pillar comes in closer, creating a less SUV-ish feel. The current X4 is a bit lower than its predecessor, and sitting at the wheel, there's a notable contrast with the X3. (Variable Sport steering is standard on the X4 the X3 can be had without it.) But we dock more points for the Variable Sport steering's nonlinear response to inputs, which often had us backing off after initially cranking in too much lock. Grip the wheel-its rim is as fat as a German knackwurst, the leather as smooth as a sausage casing-and there's precious little feel that makes its way through. Throw a few curves at it, and the X4-its 4184 pounds near equally balanced on its front and rear axles-understeers moderately but ultimately doesn't feel that much different than a sports sedan. The upside of the firm suspension is that body roll is a nonissue, and on its staggered-fitment Pirelli P Zeros (245/45R-20 front, 275/40R-20 rear) the X4 30i clings to the skidpad to the tune of 0.88 g. ![]()
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