76 November 2015 www.bahrainthismonth.com The styling of the BMW X4 has divided opinion among motoring correspondents and, love it or hate it, one thing is certain – this luxury crossover has a distinct look. It bears more than a passing resemblance to the bigger X6 and is based on the same platform as the X3, which, in my opinion, makes it a wining combination. Exterior aesthetics aside, inside is a familiar affair for anyone who has driven a BMW in recent years. The luxuriously appointed cabin screams sophistication and the user-friendly infotainment system is worth noting. However, gadgets and gizmos aside, what matters to me most is how a car performs and I loved driving the X4 around Manama. I’ve always found BMW vehicles deliver a consistent level of efficiency – perhaps due to the German heritage? This model is certainly no exception and the more time I spent driving it, the more impressed I became. The fully-loaded crossover boasts a selection of driving modes to ensure you get the performance you desire – and believe me, I did. From Comfort to Sport and even Sport Plus, each mode changes the drive significantly and, to provide a sporty touch, there are paddle-shifters if you opt for a more hands-on experience. However for me, it was Sport Plus mode for the majority of my drive because, let’s face it, what’s the point of driving a BMW if you’re not going to utilise its stunning raw power? The steering is well balanced and remarkably responsive with even the slightest turn of the wheel; this makes it a doddle to manoeuvre around the tight corners Adliya is famous for. There is no shortage of power thanks to the BMW EfficientDynamics engine family, which combines the latest injection technologies and fully variable Drive Performance Control with turbocharger technology. I had great fun on the highway, navigating the Kingdom’s treacherous traffic with ease. Ample power and impressive handling are the key components to this vehicle, which delivers a drive you will remember long after you reach your destination. Speaking of reaching your destination, the model I drove had a fantastic navigation system that made finding your way as simple as possible. All I had to do was sit pretty and enjoy the music coming from my Bluetooth-connected MP3 player. Confident driving is enhanced when you know that you can rely on your partner and, with the X4, you’re in safe hands. The intuitive and impressive Drive Assist systems guarantee top-level safety and comfort, making this an ideal family car. With models like this, it’s no surprise that crossovers are becoming increasingly popular around the world; ideal for those who want the capability of an SUV without the cumbersome size. Call 17 750-750. motoring CHARLIE HOLDING It’s no secret that BMW is a brand synonymous with power and performance. This model is a shining example of why the marque is so popular around the world. Cool Crossover EURO MOTORS
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