BMW to unveil X4 at 2013 Detroit Motor Show

BMW will unveil a concept version of its newest crossover the X4 (codenamed the F26) at the 2013 Detroit Motor Show in January. Billed as a smaller version of the X6, the new crossover will share components like engines and underpinnings and platform with the current X3. 

However, the ‘Sports Activity Vehicle’ (SAV) will get its own distinct styling and design cues as well as a few more features than the X3 to separate the two models. It will slot in below the X5 and is expected to compete with vehicles like the Range Rover Evoque and Porsche Macan crossover which is due to debut at around the same time.

A report from Autoweek.com suggests that there will also be an M and a diesel M version of the X4. The X4 M is likely to be powered by the same straight six twin-turbo mill that will make its debut in the sixth generation M3 while the diesel M might get the German automaker's tri-turbo 3.0-litre engine. 

The crossover will be made at BMW’s facility in Spartanburg, South Carolina, where the X5, X6 and the X3 are also produced. The report says prices for the SAV will start at 42,000 dollars (Rs 23 lakh before taxes and duties) and will go on sale in the US market in early 2014. 

With the demand for crossovers in the Asian markets increasing quite rapidly, expect BMW to bring this model here in CBU form soon after its international debut. 

Source: Autoweek.com