We first spied the M Performance-badged version of the new BMW X4 crossover in August 2014 – and now it’s out on the track having shed all of its unnecessary camo.

Unnecessary because like other M Performance models, the new X4 M40i wears the exact same M Sport package that’s available on every single model in the range, from the base Euro 184PS 2.0i to the 300hp 35i offered in North America.

Then how do we know that’s the M40i, we hear you ask? Simple – the X4 xDrive35i has two pipes stacked together on the right side, while the X4 M40i a single pipe on either side of the bumper.

The production model could get different wheels and maybe a discreet boot lid spoiler to make you feel about 1 percent better about your choice. 
In the place of the 35i’s 300hp (306PS in Europe) 3.0-liter turbocharged-six, the M40i is thought to get the upcoming M2 Coupe’s N55 3.0-liter force-fed six-cylinder engine delivering between 360 and 380 horsepower to all-four wheels through an eight-speed automatic.

A stiffer suspension along with more powerful brakes, a tweaked steering system, the usual trim updates in the interior and a hike in pricing over the X4 35i will round off the M40i package.

Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoops

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