BMW F98 X4 M
The X3 M under a coupe roofline: identical S58 performance, marginally lower centre of gravity, noticeably less rear space.
The X4 M is mechanically identical to the X3 M, sharing the S58 engine, eight-speed automatic, M xDrive system and active rear differential. What changes is the roofline and the rear packaging.
It is marginally lower and slightly better balanced on paper, but on the road the differences are imperceptible. This is a styling choice more than a dynamic one.
As with the X3 M, it is the most agile M SUV available and the least comfortable, and it responds superbly to tuning.
Year by year
- 2020–2021
Launch with 473 hp standard and 503 hp Competition trim.
- 2022
Competition becomes the primary trim; equipment updates.
- 2023–2024 — final cars
LCI styling and interior revisions before the model line ended.
The good and the bad
Positives
- +Same agility and performance as the X3 M
- +Distinctive coupe-SUV styling
- +S58 with excellent response and tuning potential
- +Strong brakes and precise steering
- +Rarer than the X3 M
Negatives
- −Harsh ride, particularly on 21-inch wheels
- −Reduced rear headroom and cargo capacity
- −Uninspiring stock exhaust note
- −High road noise
- −Significant depreciation
Known faults and what they cost
- Crank hub on heavily tuned cars$3,500–$6,000
Rare on the S58 but worth checking on tuned vehicles.
- Cooling under sustained load$1,200–$2,500
Important on tracked vehicles.
- Wheel damage$1,200–$3,000
Large wheels on low-profile tires are vulnerable.
- Brake wear$1,800–$3,500 per axle
Fast wear with enthusiastic use.
Pre-purchase inspection checklist
- 01Verify campaigns and software currency
- 02Ask about tuning and look for evidence
- 03Inspect wheels and tires for pothole damage
- 04Check brake wear and disc condition
- 05Confirm Competition equipment via option codes
- 06Review service history for oil discipline
Modifications for longevity
- Oil every 7,500 miles
Do not follow the extended service indicator.
- Fluid changes at 30–40k miles
Transmission and differential on hard-used vehicles.
- Cooling checks
Annual inspection of the cooling stack.
- Walnut blasting
Intake valve carbon at 60–80k miles.
- Alignment discipline
Check after pothole strikes; the low-profile setup is unforgiving.
Modifications for performance
- 01Tires
The highest-value single upgrade.
- 02Stage 1 tune
560–600 hp on stock hardware.
- 03Downpipe and intercooler
620–650 hp with better heat control.
- 04Exhaust
Addresses the biggest weakness — the stock sound.
What they are worth
Rarer than the X3 M but usually priced slightly lower due to reduced practicality — which makes it the value choice of the two.
Late Competition cars with full history and no tuning are the cleanest purchases.
Owner discussion
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