The X4 brings unique styling to BMW’s SUV lineup, but the funky shape and design do have some drawbacks. That said, the SUV enters 2023 with more interior options as its main update. It retains the strong driving experience, solid tech, and upscale experience that made it popular in the first place.

BMW will offer the 2023 X4 in base xDrive30i and enhanced M40i configurations. The xDrive30i should start at $53,400, and the top M40i model will start at $64,650. A separate X4 M model is also available, priced at $76,400.

The base engine for 2023 is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 248 horsepower. It comes with auto start-stop functionality, three selectable drive modes, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive. The M40i adds a turbocharged inline-six that makes 382 horsepower.

Though “only” an SUV, the X4 manages an engaging and lively driving experience with peppy acceleration and great handling. The base engine delivers decent power but struggles on fuel economy compared to other four-cylinder luxury vehicles. BMW offers a Dynamic Handling package for the base xDrive30i, which brings better brakes and adaptive dampers that adjust to changing road conditions and driving styles. The ride remains comfortable at most times, but the X4 can feel rough in sporty driving modes.

Stepping up to the M40i brings impressive acceleration and great responsiveness. This powertrain also features a mild-hybrid system that boosts acceleration off the line and allows the engine to shut off at certain times to preserve fuel economy.

The X4 comes standard with a panoramic moonroof, power seats, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, rain-sensing wipers, synthetic leather, and dark oak wood trim. BMW offers materials upgrades and other standalone options to customize the SUV’s interior.

A 12.3-inch infotainment display comes standard, and it’s paired with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. BMW will update the interface for 2023 with iDrive 8, its latest infotainment system. The software brings revised interactions, better controls for voice, gesture, and touch, and an improved rotary dial controller. BMW says it will refine existing features and add new options as time goes on using the vehicle’s over-the-air (OTA) update functionality.

BMW includes several driver aids as standard, but the automaker does still holds many other driver-assistance features back as added-cost options. Forward-collision warnings, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure alerts, speed-limit recognition, a rearview camera, automatic emergency braking, rain-sensing wipers, and automatic high beams are all standard.

The X4 competes in a ridiculously crowded pack of luxury SUVs. The list of rivals includes the Audi Q5, the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque, the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, and even other vehicles from the BMW catalog, such as the X3. Newcomer Genesis also has extremely strong contenders in the electric GV60 and gas GV70.