While luxury SUVs might have the most premium features, not all of them are created equal. As a whole, J.D. Power reports that new vehicle satisfaction has gone down year after year. Despite that, the BMW X4 might have what it takes to please everyone. 

The BMW X4 is a highly-rated luxury compact SUV

According to J.D. Power’s Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) survey, the BMW X4 pleases the majority of luxury compact SUV drivers. The X4 was placed above the Jaguar F-Pace, despite Jaguar’s ranking as the best premium brand. Consumers also seem to prefer the X4 over the Genesis GV70.

What does this J.D. Power survey reveal about BMW vehicles?

The J.D. Power APEAL study is a thorough assessment that quizzes owners about their satisfaction with new vehicles. The survey includes nearly 40 questions regarding the car’s handling, technology, and safety features. 

Alongside the X4 SUV, the BMW 7 Series and iX models were also given the highest owner satisfaction ratings in their respective segments. Given that BMW owns MINI, we’re not surprised to see that both of those models also garner a lot of consumer appeal. Overall, BMW ranked 4th place in overall satisfaction regarding luxury car brands. In addition to Jaguar, BMW was outranked by both Land Rover and Porsche. However, all four luxury brands have above-average satisfaction scores for the luxury demographic.

Here are some high points of BMW X4 ownership

Among other things, drivers interviewed by J.D. Power love the engine notes from the BMW X4’s powertrains. The most satisfying one is likely the turbo-six under the hood of the X4 M, which generates up to 503 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. That’s with the Competition package added, which also lets this SUV shoot straight to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds. 

The base trim comes with a turbo-four capable of 248 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The available turbo-six with a mild-hybrid system allows the X4 to earn 23 mpg combined city/highway. The hybrid technology reduces this engine’s power output to 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. Adding the optional M Suspension differential gives you the best of both worlds with improved efficiency and athletic driving manners. 

Drivers should be satisfied with any X4 engine, especially because all of them have standard all-wheel drive. The BMW X4 excels in both speed and handling, tackling sharp turns without hesitation. Despite its sporty nature, many drivers also reported that the X4’s ride stays plush and compliant. Those who purchase the M40i model can enjoy an adaptive suspension setup with adjustable tuning. Owners also appreciate the exterior fastback styling, which can easily cause one to mistake the X4 for a coupe at first glance.

As with most BMWs, interior quality is also a high point. Both the base xDrive30i and hybridized M40i trims have perforated faux leather seats, with heating and ventilation available upon request. You can also get real leather seats and door panels inside this SUV. Soft-touch surfaces and shiny chrome accents adorn the dashboard. All of the physical controls are laid out in an organized manner. 

The BMW X4 has a 12.3-inch center touchscreen powered by the iDrive 7 interface with standard wireless smartphone integration. Each model can also be had with a 16-speaker Harmon Kardon audio system. BMW offers a few optional safety features for the X4, but the most essential ones are on the base trim for no extra charge. It’s a nice gesture from the automaker, even though $55,000 is a lot to pay for one SUV. We trust J.D. Power’s research, so we’d still feel confident purchasing an X4 with no regrets.