BMW powers up its awkward X4 crossover hatchback thing

That kind of power is good for an overly respectable 0 to 60 miles per hour sprint of 4.7 seconds. Although the United Kingdom price has yet to be determined, it is likely to be pitched above the existing £49,295 X4 xdrive35d M Sport, according to highly placed BMW sources. Like the M2 the X4 M40i uses a 3.0L twin-turbocharged six-cylinder, but output is down slightly to 355 horsepower and 343 lb-ft of torque.

Touting a history of developing sporty, lightweight and compact cars, starting with the 02 series that made BMW a play in the US market in the 1970s, the German luxury brand introduced the M2 Coupe as a “benchmark in the compact high-performance sports vehicle segment”. The BMW X4 M40i will serve as the top-of-the-line model in the X4’s range and will begin arriving dealerships next year. The M2 is the new entry-level model in the carmaker’s M performance line of vehicles, while the turbo-powered X4 M40i will offer premium power and performance twinned with premium luxury. The standard transmission is a six-speed manual but BMW is offering a seven-speed dual-clutch unit as an option.

Throw in other goodies like 19-inch Michelin Pilot Super Sport rubber, an active differential, and a seriously aggressive-looking body kit, and you’ve got the recipe for the ideal weekend track monster that can also ferry you to work day in and day out in comfort.

The M2 is “inspired by its motorsport roots”, BMW said.

If all of these changes sound appetizing you won’t have to wait long, as the X4 M40i goes on sale in February of 2016 and will start at $57,800 plus destination.

The M2 wasn’t a surprise, as we have known about this auto for a few months now.