• High-quality dashboard with familiar BMW features
• BMW’s iDrive media system remains one of the best
• Dash design not as coherent as an Audi or Volvo

Behind the wheel, the X4’s dash is lifted straight from the X3, save for a couple of trim options available exclusively on the X4.

That means the dash is very solidly put together with a high-quality feel throughout, plenty of adjustment in the driving position, a commanding view of the road and BMW’s excellent iDrive infotainment system.

The standard leather seats are excellent, with plenty of adjustment, while the metal elements to some of the controls on the dash and centre console add a touch of class.

However, with such an array of seat and trim combinations on top of the various textures and design elements across the dashboard, we can’t help but feel BMW could have toned things down a little bit. There’s a lot going on in places, and some of the metal switches (for the climate control, for example) are quite difficult to read in a hurry. 

• Comfortable and supportive seats
• Standard M Sport suspension
• Ride can be fidgety, more so than X3 

The X4’s sportier intentions are brought to light a little more when it comes to comfort – it’s not as relaxed and comfortable as the X3.

That’s no surprise and it’s not too much of a compromise as refinement remains excellent and the seats on all X4 models are comfortable, supportive and offer a huge amount of adjustment.

The way the X4 rides is variable, though. If you tick the option for adaptive dampers, the X4 can feel a little fidgety on some of the UK’s less-than-perfect roads. 

Left in Adaptive mode, we found it didn’t quite settle down on country roads, feeling noticeably less relaxed than the X3. Sport mode felt the same, so we found that leaving it in Comfort mode offers the best balance – it’s still sharp to drive but doesn’t become too upset by bumps in the road.

It’s far from bad, though, as it strikes a good balance between sportiness and comfort. It’s a difficult trick to pull off as the X4 is both a coupe and SUV (in theory), so we’ll give credit where credit’s due. If you’re planning to regularly use the X4 as a family car or on longer journeys, you may want to consider the X3, though.