2015 Mini Paceman - Review

PRICE : For 2015 Mini Paceman $ 24000

Though it shares its nose with the Countryman - the two crossovers are essentially identical underneath the sheetmetal - the Paceman features unique styling aft of the A-pillars that sets it apart from the rest of the MINI range. It has an air of ruggedness thanks to a relatively tall ride height and muscular rear "hips", yet a rising beltline and short overhangs also lend it a sleek appearance.

The cabin contains nearly all of the playful, eccentric touches for which MINI has become known, the most notable of which is a speedometer mounted in the center of the dash. It can take some getting used to for drivers conditioned to simply looking down to ascertain vehicle speed, although the steering column-mounted tachometer can be configured with a digital speedometer to approximate a more conventional setup.
An optional MINI Connect infotainment system - controlled through a 6.5-inch display mounted in the center of the speedo - provides smartphone integration along with access to Facebook, Twitter, Pandora, RSS feeds and more. Google search and send-to-car functionality are also part of the package.

Despite its compact dimensions, the Paceman's rear seats are perfectly capable of accommodating average-sized adults for around-town trips. In back, there's room for 11.6 cubic feet of cargo, and 38.1 cubes can be had by folding down the rear seats.
While its added size and weight means it can't quite match the supremely agile dynamics of the smaller Hardtop, the Paceman nonetheless is one of the most dexterous crossovers on the market today. A no-cost sport suspension option further sharpens up the Pacemen's handling.

The Paceman is offered in three different trims: the 121-horsepower Cooper, the 181-horsepower Cooper S and the 208-hor

EXTERIOR

Just like the five-door Countryman, the 2015 Paceman doesn’t come with a whole lot of noticeable changes, unless you count the three new color options Mini Mini is offering with the new Paceman. The good news is that same Jungle Green shade we swooned over on the Countryman is also going to be available on the Paceman.

Other minor revisions to the exterior include what looks like a shorter hood, an elongated silhouette that comes by way of the flowing roof line, and the tapering side window graphic. New standard and optionally available light-alloy wheels with reduced weight have also been made available.

The 2015 Paceman does have an extra dose of high-end optional features, chief among them the new LED fog lamps with daytime driving lights and parking lights with LED technology. Xenon headlamps are also set to be offered, as well as adaptive turning light, comfort access, a glass push/tilt roof, automatic air conditioning, a removable tow hitch with a trailer load of up to 2,000 pounds.

Outside of all that, the 2015 Paceman still looks like the Paceman.

INTERIOR

The MINI Paceman is consistently designed as a four-seater. Its standard trim comprises sports seats for driver and front passenger. The two single seats at the rear offer excellent shoulder and head room, lateral support and comfort. The exclusive lounge character of the second row is likewise enhanced by the armrests in the side rear trim panels. What is more, the driving experience offered by the car benefits from acoustic comfort, which has been further optimised in the new MINI Paceman.

For even more sporty flair in the cockpit there are now anthracite-coloured dials for the engine speed and road speed display in the style of the MINI John Cooper Works Paceman, whose central instrument also bears the John Cooper Works logo. The standard trim of the new MINI Paceman likewise includes chrome applications for the ventilation controls, clearly reflecting the car's refined premium characteristics.

One of the features that highlights the functionality of the MINI Paceman is the standard MINI Center Rail storage system between the driver and front passenger seats and a storage tray between the rear seats. In addition, the rear backrests can be folded down individually. This enables expansion of the luggage volume from 330 to as much as 1 080 litres

SPECIFICATION

►Year:2015
►Make:Mini
►Model:Paceman
►Price:$ 24000
►Engine:inline-4
►Horsepower @ RPM:122
►Displacement:1.6 L
►0-60 time:10.4 sec.
►Top Speed:130 mph (Est.)

FEATURES

The Paceman's standard features include power windows and locks, A/C, leatherette seats, a trip computer, Bluetooth connectivity, a six-speaker AM/FM/CD/HD radio stero system with an auxiliary audio jack, and 17-inch alloy wheels.

Highlights from the option list include a dual-pane panoramic sunroof, a USB/iPod adaptor, navigation system with 6.5-inch high definition display, leather seats with power adjustability and a Harmon/Kardon sound system.

Some options can be bundled together for a net savings in five different packages. The Premium package includes the panoramic sunroof, an automatic climate control system and the Harmon/Kardon audio unit. A Sport package nets Electronic Differential Lock Control, a rear spoiler, 18-inch "Turbo Fan" wheels, sport seats, fog lamps and a black or white hood stripe. For those who reside in the northern states, the Cold Weather package makes winters livable with heated power folding mirrors, heated washer jets and heated front seats.

The Convenience package usefully comprises an auto dimming rearview mirror, auto rain sensors for the windshield wipers, auto headlamps, white turn signals (more convenient than yellow?), a universal garage door opener, a comfort access system and a USB/iPod adaptor. Finally, the Convenience + Mini Connected package includes the navigation system, USB/iPod adaptor, smart phone integration with voice recognition, auto dimming rearview mirror, auto rain sensors, auto headlamps, a universal garage door opener, a comfort access system and a center arm rest.

For the latest model year, buyers have the option to spec John Cooper Works exterior and interior packages that imitate the look of the performance model

ACCELERATION

The 2015 Mini Cooper Paceman comes with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 121 horsepower. Cooper S and Cooper S ALL4 models have a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 181 horsepower, while the John Cooper Works Paceman has a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 208 horsepower. A six-speed manual transmission is standard and a six-speed automatic is available. According to the EPA, the base Paceman with the manual transmission gets 27/34 mpg city/highway, which is great for an upscale small car. With the automatic transmission, the Paceman gets slightly lower fuel economy estimates of 25/30 mpg city/highway.

Critics think the base Mini Cooper Paceman accelerates slowly and could use more power. However, they praise Cooper S and John Cooper Works models for their sprightly acceleration. Test drivers like both transmission options, saying the automatic shifts smoothly and that the manual transmission enhances the driving experience.

DRIVETRAIN

The 2015 Mini Paceman is set to be offered with a choice of engine configurations, even if each one of them is the same 1.6-liter displacement. The base 1.6L comes with 122 horsepower and 118 pound-feet of torque while the 1.6L Turbo for the S trim bumps the output all the way up to 190 horsepower, six ponies more than the 2014 model.

As for the top-of-the-line John Cooper Works trim, you stand to get the same 1.6L Turbo with even more added juice at 218 horsepower. Naturally, the Paceman JCW is the fastest to 62 mph with the capability to do it in just 6.9 seconds. Top speed numbers haven’t been released, but we expect it to be somewhere close to 150 mph.

DESIGN

The innovative concept of the MINI Paceman includes a distinctive and highly expressive body design which reflects the automobile's properties in hallmark MINI design style. The upright front section with large headlamps and hexagonal radiator grille contour conveys solidity and presence, while the elongated silhouette defined by horizontal lines stand for sporty elegance. Powerfully modelled surfaces express sporty flair and versatility. The high-opening tailgate indicates the high degree of functionality and versatility offered by the MINI Paceman. Its distinctive character is also underscored by the rear lights which are horizontally arranged for the first time in a MINI.

In certain model variants the radiator grille of the MINI Paceman features a specific contour and grid structure. The new MINI John Cooper Works Paceman can be identified by means of a horizontal radiator grill rib in red - another indication of extreme sporty flair in addition to the John Cooper Works logo positioned on the honeycomb pattern. A specific feature on the radiator grille of the new MINI Cooper S Paceman is the curved "S" in red. In addition to the long doors in the style of a coupé, striking features in the side perspective chiefly include the roof which sits on top of the car virtually seamlessly and is optionally available in a contrasting colour. The flowing roof line, falling off to the rear, and the tapering side window graphic create a stretched, wedge-like silhouette. The new option Piano Black Exterior comprises a finish in high-gloss black which lends a dark, shimmering highend look to selected surfaces. It is applied instead of the standard chrome finish to the surrounds of the headlamps and rear lights, on the diagonal links between the A columns and the front wheel arches and on the optional roof rails and the cross-rib in the radiator grill of the MINI Cooper Paceman.

Other new features are to be found in the range of exterior paint finishes. The colours Jungle Green metallic and Midnight Grey metallic are now available for the new MINI Paceman, too. A contrasting paint finish in black or white is offered as an optional extra for all model variants of the new MINI Paceman at no extra charge. Meanwhile a contrasting paint finish in Chili Red is available as an additional alternative exclusively for the MINI John Cooper Works Paceman. Other individual accents can be added by means of such features as the Sport Stripes and bonnet stripes in various colours.

TECHNOLOGY

Numerous optimised detailed contribute to a combination of increased driving fun with advancements in terms of fuel consumption and exhaust emission levels in the new MINI Paceman. All petrol and diesel engines available for the Sports Activity Vehicle now meet the EU6 exhaust emission standard. In addition, the high degree of efficiency of the modern 4- cylinder power units and the extended use of MINIMALISM technology ensure that the balance between driving performance figures and fuel consumption has been further improved in all engine variants. Measures applied to boost efficiency include optimised air ducting in the area of the underbody, wheel bearings with a lower friction coefficient and tyres with reduced rolling resistance.

The new MINI Cooper S Paceman further consolidates its leading position in the segment in terms of driving fun in that it now offers increased power. Its 4-cylinder spark ignition engine with twin-scroll turbocharger, direct injection and variable valve control sees a rise in output by 5 kW to 140 kW/190 bhp. This reduces the time required from acceleration from standing to 100 km/h by 0.1 seconds to 7.4 seconds. Meanwhile the new MINI Cooper S Paceman completes the interim sprint from 80 to 120 km/h in fifth gear in 8.3 seconds - 0.2 seconds than before. Its top speed is increased by 3 km/h to 220 km/h. At the same time, the fuel consumption of the new MINI Cooper S Paceman in the EU test cycle is reduced to 6.0 litres per 100 kilometres, with the relevant CO2 emissions dropping to 139 grams per kilometre.

The sprint capability of the new MINI Cooper Paceman is likewise enhanced. The 90 kW/122 bhp model variant now accelerates in 10.3 seconds from standing to 100 km/h, increasing speed from 80 to 120 km/h within 14.7 seconds. The top speed of the new MINI Cooper Paceman is 193 km/h. Its average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle drops to 5.7 litres per 100 kilometres (CO2 emissions: 137 g/km). The two diesel variants of the new MINI Paceman are also more agile and efficient than ever before. The 105 kW/143 bhp MINI Cooper SD Paceman sprints in 9.1 seconds (minus 0.1 seconds) from zero to 100 km/h and in 9.6 seconds (minus 0.4 seconds) from 80 to 120 km/h. Its average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle drops to 4.5 litres per 100 kilometres (CO2 emissions: 119 g/km).

The new MINI Cooper D Paceman (82 kW/112 bhp) especially increases performance on the interim sprint, It accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 10.8 seconds and from 80 to 120 km/h in 11.4 seconds, in other words 0.4 seconds faster than before. The average fuel consumption of the new MINI Cooper D Paceman in the EU test cycle is now only 4.2 litres per 100 kilometres (CO2 emission: 111 g/km).

The outstanding level of driving fun offered by the MINI John Cooper Works Paceman is also increased. The top athlete, which transfers the power of its 160 kW/218 bhp turbo engine to all four wheels as standard, now accelerates from zero to 100 km/h 6.9 seconds, 0.1 seconds faster than previously. Meanwhile the time required for the sprint from 80 to 120 km/h is now reduced by 0.2 seconds to 7.6 seconds. The maximum speed of the new MINI John Cooper Works Paceman is increased by 3 km/h to 229 km/h. And its efficiency has been enhanced, too. The car's average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is 7.1 litres per 100 kilometres (CO2 emissions: 165 g/km).

NEW ALLOYWHEELS & LED LIGHTS

Light alloy wheels come as standard in all model variants of the MINI Paceman. Newly designed for the MINI Cooper Paceman and the MINI Cooper D Paceman , the 16-inch light alloy wheels in 5-Star Air Spoke Design help increase the agility and fuel efficiency of these models with their reduced weight and optimised aerodynamic properties. The 17-inch light alloy wheels in the new 5-Star Triangle Spoke Design for the MINI Cooper S Paceman and the MINI Cooper SD Paceman are also lighter than their predecessors. They are also optionally available in a two-colour design. As another option, the new standard wheels are offered in a MINIMALISM version featuring tyres with reduced rolling resistance for reduced fuel consumption and exhaust emission levels. Meanwhile, the MINI John Cooper Works Paceman features 18-inch light alloy wheels in Twin Spoke Black Burnished Design as standard. Additional rims are optionally available for the new MINI Paceman in the sizes 17, 18 and 19 inches.

Also new to the program of optional extras are the LED fog lights including parking and daytime driving lights in LED technology, ensuring both clear visibility and a striking appearance. They provide an intense, bright white light with a much higher level of energy efficiency than conventional headlamps. The structure of their light sources in full LED technology helps make the front view of the new MINI Paceman distinctively expressive. Perfect for improving visibility in fog, the light is generated by three LED units arranged horizontally at the centre of the cluster and radiated across the entire surface of the headlamp. The daytime driving light takes the form of a luminous ring fed by 15 LED units. When the parking lights are switched on, only five LED units are active in the upper third of the ring.

SAFETY

The suspension technology of the MINI Paceman is of exceptionally high quality for the compact segment and in conjunction with its powerful engines contributes to the car's impressive agility. Unmistakable go-kart feeling is guaranteed by the combination of McPherson spring struts and forged wishbones on the front axle, a multilink rear axle and electromechanical power steering including Steptronic as well as the specific set-up of the standard sports suspension.

The outstanding qualities of the MINI Paceman also include precisely controllable drive response and excellent occupant protection. The integrated MINI safety concept comprises a crash-optimised body structure and a full range of features in the areas of active and passive safety. All in all, this puts occupant safety at the same level of the MINI Countryman, which was awarded the top 5-star rating on the Euro NCAP crash test. The new MINI Paceman is fitted as standard with daytime driving light as well as tyre pressure control on each individual tyre. Constant measurement of pressure means that the driver is given an early warning of potential loss in each tyre.

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) also forms part of the standard trim of the MINI Paceman. Dynamic Traction Control (DSC) including Electronic Differential Lock Control is on board as standard in conjunction with the allwheel drive system ALL4 and in the models MINI Cooper S Paceman and MINI Cooper SD Paceman. The ALL4 electronic management system is networked with the DSC system in every model variant with all-wheel drive so as to ensure maximum traction, ride stability and sporty flair on bends by means of very fast reactions.

Extensive additional equipment features are available to increase driving fun, comfort and individual style. There are numerous upholstery types, interior colours, interior trims and Colour Lines to choose from for the MINI Paceman. Standard features include automatic air conditioning, the MINI Center Rail, a radio system comprising a CD player with MP3 capability, AUX-in socket and five speakers. The high-quality options include xenon headlamps and adaptive turning light, automatic air conditioning, comfort access, the electrically operated glass roof, a removable tow hitch with a trailer load of up to 1 200 kilograms, the MINI navigation system, multifunction steering wheel with cruise control, Harman Kardon hi-fi speaker system and model-specific John Cooper Works accessories.

Another offer typical of MINI is the innovative in-car infotainment program which can be used in conjunction with the Radio MINI Visual Boost and the MINI navigation system. With MINI Connected, the British manufacturer emphasises its leading role in the intelligent networking of driver, automobile and the outside world based on cutting-edge interface technology. The integration of entertainment and online functions offered by modern smartphones helps make driving a MINI even more fascinating, convenient and entertaining. It enables the use of vehicle-specific functions such as Mission Control, Dynamic Music, Driving Excitement and MINIMALISM Analyser as well as online-based services. Integration is via apps, with functional diversity being expanded on an ongoing basis. Current functions include web radio, the use of social networks such as Facebook, Twitter, foursquare and Glympse, RSS news feed reception and entertainment programs such as AUPEO!, Stitcher, Deezer, Audible, Napster/Rhapsody and TuneIn. Operation is intuitive and typically MINI in style via the on-board computer in the central instrument, the MINI Joy Stick in the centre console, the multifunction buttons of the steering wheel and also voice control

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION

The MINI Paceman is the second model of the brands in which hallmark driving fun is enriched with an additional facet. Specially developed for MINI, the all-wheel drive system ALL4 distributes drive power at continuously variable levels between the front and rear axle by means of an electromagnetic centre differential and is available for all model variants of the MINI Paceman as an alternative to front-wheel drive.

What is more, all engines available for the MINI Paceman can be optionally combined with a 6-speed automatic transmission instead of the standard 6-speed manual transmission. The automatic transmission offers the possibility of manual drive position selection with Steptronic - including shift paddles at the steering wheel on request.

The optional Sport Button provides an individualised set-up (as standard in the MINI John Cooper Works Paceman). This allows very direct characteristic curves to be activated for the accelerator and steering. In conjunction with the automatic transmission, pressing the Sport Button also results in changes to the shift points. This is supplemented by a particularly striking engine sound in the MINI Cooper S Paceman.

FUEL ECONOMY

The Paceman offers three available engines. Base models use a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder rated at 121 horsepower and 116 lb-ft of torque. That engine returns 28 miles per gallon in the city and 35 mpg on the highway with the manual transmission or 25 mpg city/30 mpg hwy with the available automatic.

Step up to the Cooper S Paceman, and you'll get the same 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine, except with a turbocharger. It makes 181 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque, and its fuel economy is rated at 26 mpg city/32 mpg hwy or slightly less with the available all-wheel-drive system.

Topping the range is the 208-hp John Cooper Works Paceman, which is only offered with all-wheel drive. It returns 25 mpg city/31 mpg hwy with a manual transmission or 23 mpg city/30 mpg hwy with an automatic.

NISSAN JUKE v/s MINI PACEMAN

The beauty of being the Nissan Juke, other than the fact that it looks wonky for a car of any size, is that it has the ability to cross over to a number of segments. You can line it up against a bigger crossover like the Subaru XV or you can line it up with another two-door model like the Mini Paceman.

It’s an interesting comparison between the two models, largely due to the fact that both models come with a design unique to their own. The Paceman may have the slight edge because of its German roots, but the Juke really isn’t that far behind considering the progress Nissan has made in its own brand of auto technology.

Power might favor the Paceman, thanks to its myriad of engine options, but again, the Juke’s 1.6-liter inline-four engine that produces 188 horsepower is on par with what the Cooper Paceman S is capable of delivering.

One other thing that swings the argument to the side of the Juke is its price. The base model is just under $20,000 and it has enough trims to choose from to make a purchase worthwhile. Even the top-of-the-line SL AWD retails for just under $26,000, slightly lower than the price we anticipate the 2015 Cooper S Paceman will have.

VIDEO

By : Automotive News & Super Modified Sports Cars

Posted by : Shahen Tharammal

2015 BMW X4 - Review

PRICE : 2015 BMW X4 xDrive28i $45,625

PRICE : 2015 BMW X4 xDrive35i $48,925

The all-new BMW X4 has a lively optional engine and nimble handling, reviewers say. However, they note that it has less rear-seat and cargo room than most rivals have. 

The 2015 BMW X4 comes with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. A turbocharged six-cylinder engine is available, and reviewers are impressed with its strong power output and snappy acceleration off the line. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard with both engines, and test drivers say it delivers seamless, quick shifts. According to the EPA, base 2015 X4 earns 20/28 mpg city/highway, which is average for the class. Test drivers also praise the X4’s precise steering and athletic handling, which make the X4 remarkably fun to drive.

The new 2015 BMW X4 earns praise for its upscale cabin, which reviewers say is attractive and outfitted with high-quality materials. According to reviewers, the X4's front seats are comfortable and spacious. However, they complain that its rear seats have little legroom. At the same time, critics note that the X4’s sloped roofline limits rear-seat headroom and rearward visibility.

Standard features include a USB port, a power moonroof, Bluetooth, an iDrive infotainment system, satellite radio, rear parking sensors and adaptive cruise control. A surround-view camera system, adaptive headlights, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning and active park assist are available. Reviewers praise the X4's infotainment system, which they say is simple to operate. The X4 has 49.4 cubic feet of overall cargo space, which is less than what most rivals offer. Still, some reviewers like its convenient available hands-free tailgate system.

EXTERIOR

From the front, the X4 looks a lot like the X6 – big, bulky grilles everywhere with a chin sitting high of the ground and a long hood flowing into a slopped windshield. Especially out back, the X6’s heritage is noticeable. The roofline past the B-pillars is like no other SUV outside the BMW line-up. Strangely, the roofline works in my opinion, that is until the rear glass ends abruptly at the rear trunk. This area of the X4 - and even the X6 – has never seems to flow just right. This is where the SUV and car combination conflict the most.

In an oddly juxtaposed manner, the rear bumper comes adorned with black plastic cladding normally found on SUVs just inches away from a roof normally found on a 4-Series. It makes for odd bedfellows, but BMW makes it work. I’m constantly reminded that beauty is in the eye of the beholder and aesthetics are subjective.

INTERIOR

The interior of the new BMW X4 reveals a harmonious synthesis of sportiness and exclusivity. The X4's body is mounted 36 millimetres closer to the road than that of the BMW X3. The driver and front passenger sit 20 millimetres lower and the rear passengers 28 millimetres lower, creating the feeling of a classical sports coupe. It is a sensation reinforced by the rear seat bench, which comes with the type of continuously moulded side supports normally only provided by two individual seats, but still offers space for three passengers. 

Equally impressive is the load capacity available (500-1,400 litres), which can be used in a wide variety of ways thanks to the standard 40:20:40 split rear seat bench. Everyday usability is further enhanced by the standard-fitted automatically opening tailgate. This can be specified as an option with the extra convenience of the Smart Opener, which allows it to be opened with a movement of the foot. All BMW X4 variants are fitted with the Radio Professional with iDrive Controller and central display. Among the features contributing to the flawless ergonomics inside the new BMW X4 is the touch-sensitive surface of the new iDrive Touch Controller (available in conjunction with the Navigation System Professional), which allows drivers or passengers to use their finger to write letters for text inputs - a navigation destination, for example.

The premium quality and exclusivity of the interior are underlined by selected materials, subtle electroplated accents, a high-gloss black-panel look (in models with the two-zone automatic climate control system) and aluminium trim strips in the wood panelling. The unmistakable character of the BMW X4 is further highlighted by a level of standard equipment even more generous than that found on board the BMW X3. Indeed, the BMW X4 comes as standard with an automatically opening tailgate, a sports leather steering wheel with gearshift paddles (not available for the X4 xDrive20d with six-speed manual gearbox), variable sport steering, Performance Control and Park Distance Control at the rear.

SPECIFICATION

►Year:2015
►Make:BMW
►Model:X4
►Price:$ 45625
►Engine:inline-4
►Transmission:8-speed Steptronic sport automatic
►Horsepower @ RPM:
►240Torque @ RPM:260
►Displacement:2.0 L
►0-60 time:6 sec. (Est.)
►Top Speed:155 mph (Est.)

FEATURES

The X4 xDrive28i come standard with the turbo four-cylinder motor in addition to leatherette upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, a 12-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system with HD radio along with AUX and USB inputs, Bluetooth connectivity, a power liftgate, automatic windshield wipers, auto on/off Xenon HID headlights, LED foglights, ambiance lighting, auto dimming exterior and interior mirrors, a universal garage door opener, full power accessories and 18-inch alloy wheels.

The X4 xDrive35i brings the turbocharged straight-six as well as a panoramic sunroof.
The optional xLine trim package brings metallic bumper inserts, satin aluminum side cladding, imitation underbody guards. It also allows buyers to choice between a range of unique leather upholstery, trim strip 19-inch wheel options.

The M Sport trim line adds an aggressive bodykit, shadow line exterior trim, sport front seats, anthracite headliner and sport-tuned steering and suspension. An exclusive variety of paint color, leather upholstery, trim strip and 19- and 20-inch wheel options can also be selected.

The Driver Assistance Package includes front and rear parking sensors and a rearview camera. It can be upgraded to the Driver Assistance Plus Package with a lane-departure warning system, frontal collision warning, pedestrian warning, city collision mitigation and rear- and top-view parking cameras.

The Premium Package adds leather upholstery, lumbar support for the front seats, satellite radio and remote start. For xDrive28i models, it also garners a panoramic sunroof.
The Technology Package brings a navigation system and upsized display screen, a head-up display, BMW apps and BMW remote services emergency communications system.
The Cold Weather Package includes heated front and rear seats along with a heated steering wheel and retractable headlight washers.

SPECIAL FEATURES

►BMW EFFICIENTDYNAMICS:

BMW made the sporty X4 an impressive fuel sipper. EfficientDynamics includes auto start/stop, low-rolling-resistance tires, brake-energy regeneration and a coasting function – technology you'd find in a hybrid. It works with the Eco Pro drive mode, which optimizes throttle response and transmission shifts, to achieve 28 highway mpg.

►M SPORT PACKAGE :

This isn't just an attractive styling package, even though the white sport seats with red stitching and the unique wheels look terrific. The M Sport package also comes with a sportier suspension than the regular X4, and that makes runs on twisty mountain roads a thrill.

PERFORMANCE

The X4 is offered with the buyer's choice of two engines.

The standard motor, which is fitted under the hood of the X4 xDrive28i, is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 240 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Those wanting more output can opt for the X4 xDrive35i - it packs a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six capable of 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque.

All X4s shift through an eight-speed automatic transmission that provides quick, smooth shifts and can de-couple the drivetrain in coasting situations from 30-100 mph in order to save fuel. All-wheel-drive is standard.

Building on the already dynamic handling of the X3, the X4 boasts a more direct variable-effort steering system as well as standard performance control, which maintains a rear-biased torque split for sportier responses. An optional Dynamic Damper Control system tightens things up further with adaptive shocks that help to smooth out the ride and reduce body roll.

DRIVETRAIN

The new BMW X4 may be based on the technical blueprint of the BMW X3, but the moment you set eyes on it, the new SAV reveals a dynamic personality all of its own and an even more ebullient character. At 4,671 millimetres in length, it is just 14 millimetres longer than the X3, but is also 36 millimetres lower to the ground (height: 1,624 mm) and cuts a persuasive figure with its perfectly balanced proportions and distinctive character. The large air intakes positioned on the outer edges of the front end and the precise character lines in the front apron lend the X4 a more muscular and agile appearance. This lowers the car's visual centre of gravity closer to the road, signalling its sharper dynamics. The effect is further enhanced by the fog lamps sited below the signature twin headlights (both also available with LED technology as an option). This arrangement defines the striking "three-eyed" face of every BMW X model.

The coupe-like roofline of the BMW X4 reaches its highest point over the front seats, reflecting the traditional driver focus of BMW cars, before dropping gently down towards the trailing edge of the tailgate. These stretched lines underline the sporting coupe character of the X4 particularly effectively. The standalone design of the BMW X4 is further reinforced by the fresh interpretation of the signature swage line running along the flanks of BMW models which, for the first time, is split into two. The first section rises smoothly from the front wheel arches to the rear door handles, highlighting the outstanding dynamic ability of the new BMW X4, while the second part accentuates the powerful sculpting of the rear wings. The contoured C-pillars - complete with muscular shoulders - represent a perfectly judged continuation of the theme, as does the broad and low-set rear end, which reminds the driver and passengers of the superior performance served up by the new BMW X4 before they even climb aboard

SAFETY

All X3 models are fitted with dual front, front side and full-length side curtain airbags in addition to traction and stability control systems.

Also included is BMW Assist eCall, which automatically notifies a BMW call center in the event of a crash and can even predict the severity of occupant injuries.

Lane-departure warning is available as part of the Driver Assistance Plus Package, as are frontal collision warning, pedestrian warning and city collision mitigation. The latter three are all designed to prevent or mitigate the severity of frontal collisions with vehicles, pedestrians and stationary objects.

ENGINE

►PETROL ENGINE :

The state-of-the-art petrol engines available for the new BMW X4 boast High Precision Direct Injection, Double-Vanos variable camshaft control and Valvetronic fully variable valve timing. These technologies join forces to provide the high-revving character for which BMW is renowned, along with excellent power delivery, superb refinement - and impressive efficiency. Indeed, the petrol engines for the new BMW X4 raise the bar with their combination of compelling dynamics yet rock-bottom fuel consumption and emissions. Drivers with sporting ambitions will be extremely well served by the X4 xDrive35i. Its 3.0-litre straight-six petrol engine conjures up maximum output of 225 kW/306 hp between 5,800 and 6,400 rpm and peak torque of 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) at 1,200-5,000 rpm. That's enough to power the X4 xDrive35i from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 5.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 247 km/h (153 mph). Despite these show-stealing performance figures, the X4 xDrive35i keeps fuel consumption down to 8.3 litres/100 km [34.0 mpg imp], which equates to CO2 emissions of 193 g/km. Even more purposeful is the 180 kW/245 hp turbocharged four-cylinder unit powering the BMW X4 xDrive28i (fuel consumption urban/extra-urban/combined: 9.3-8.7/6.3-5.9/7.4-7.0 l/100 km [30.4-32.5/44.8-47.9/38.2-40.3 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 172-162 g/km), which teams up with an eight-speed Steptronic transmission as standard to produce peak torque of 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) and a 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) time of 6.4 seconds. The 2.0-litre petrol engine in the BMW X4 xDrive20i (fuel consumption urban/extra-urban/combined: 9.2-8.7/6.3-5.9/7.3-6.9 l/100 km [30.7-32.5/44.8-47.9/38.7-40.9 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 171-161 g/km) with eight-speed Steptronic transmission develops 135 kW/184 hp at 5,000 - 6,250 rpm and serves up 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque between 1,250 and 4,500 rpm. And that allows the X4 xDrive20i to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 8.1 second

►DIESEL ENGINE :

The BMW X4 xDrive35d ranks as a bona fide member of the dynamic elite. Its optimised 3.0-litre diesel delivers 230 kW/313 hp at 4,400 rpm and puts peak torque of 630 Nm (465 lb-ft) on tap between 1,500 and 2,500 rpm. With its standard-fitted Launch Control, the X4 xDrive35d dispatches the 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) dash in a mere 5.2 seconds and hits a top speed of 247 km/h (153 mph). This is exceptional performance, but the X4 xDrive35d still posts fuel consumption of just 6.0 litres/100 km [47.1 mpg imp] and emits only 157 grams of CO2 per kilometre. The further developed 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line engine in the BMW X4 xDrive30d (fuel consumption urban/extra-urban/combined: 6.6-6.2/5.7-5.4/6.1-5.7 l/100 km [42.8-45.5/49.6-52.3/46.3-49.6 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 159-149 g/km) displays an even sharper dynamic edge. Indeed, with output of 190 kW/258 hp at 4,000 rpm and peak torque of 560 Nm (413 lb-ft) on stream between 1,500 and 3,000 rpm, it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in a suitably sporty 5.8 seconds. The BMW X4 xDrive20d is powered by a newly developed 2.0-litre diesel engine with an all-aluminium construction, which achieves injection pressure of 2,000 bar thanks to common rail direct injection with solenoid valve injectors. This cutting-edge power unit develops 140 kW/190 hp at 4,000 rpm and peak torque of 400 Nm (295 lb-ft). As a result, the X4 xDrive20d requires just 8.0 seconds to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph). And yet, linking up with the eight-speed Steptronic transmission, it pins fuel consumption to 5.4-5.0 litres/100 km [52.3-56.5 mpg imp] and sets the CO2 emission benchmark with figures of just 141-131 g/km.

FUEL ECONOMY

The unparalleled BMW EfficientDynamics technology package also minimises the fuel consumption and emissions of the new BMW X4. Included are features such as the Auto Start Stop function and coasting function (if an eight-speed automatic gearbox is fitted), Brake Energy Regeneration and on-demand operation of ancillary units, ensuring an admirable degree of environmental compatibility to go with maximum driving pleasure. Also available as an option to add further efficiency to the mix are fourth-generation reduced-rolling-resistance tyres, which reduce the CO2 emissions of selected variants of the BMW X4 by another 7 g/km.

VIDEO

Video by : Motormouth Canada


By : Automotive News & Super Modified Sports Cars

Posted by : Shahen Tharammal