BMW PREPARING A NEW SUV, THE X4 COUPE

Reports emanating from Europe suggest that BMW is getting ready for yet another SUV in the form of an X4 compact crossover. X4 will obviously follow the same design philosophy as the X6 in that it will be a coupe SUV, possibly with 5 and 3-door options. Its main rival would be the new Range Rover Evoque.

At the centre of its concept would be the idea of four seats for only four passengers, just like the original X6. Supposedly it would sit on the same platform as the X3 and share some of its engines too, including the new 2.0-litre turbo petrol of 180kW. Indeed we would then expect an M version powered by a very strong engine, possibly a twin turbo worth over 300kW.

Speculation is that an X4 could come to market in 2013 or 2014 following its unveiling as a concept car at some of the major international motor shows.

*X6 picture used