New BMW X4 to kick off BMW's 2014 SUV offensive.

BMW is to launch three new SUVs this year - and its M division is also planning launches for two new models.

First up is a debut for the production version of the X4 at the New York motor show in April. This more sporting crossover model is to the X3 what the X6 is to the X5. It follows a thinly veiled 2013 concept car of the same name.

The launch of the X4 will coincide with a facelift for the X3, which will get a new front end in line with the X4’s.

A range of four-cylinder and six-pot petrol and diesel engines will be offered, as will an eight-speed automatic gearbox and a variable sports steering system.

Following the revised X3 and X4 will be an all-new X6. It will reach the UK in November after a debut at the Moscow motor show in August.

More than 200,000 examples of the first-gen X6 have found homes since it was launched in 2008. The new model is set to build on this success with what insiders claim is a more muscular, sporty and athletic design. 

A full-blown X6 M version will be launched at the end of the year alongside an X5 M. More aggressive and sharper styling are promised.

They will use the twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8 engine of the first-gen X5 M and X6 M models but with power and torque increased from the current 547bhp and 502lb ft. Economy and CO2 emissions will also be improved. 

Source:Autocar.co.uk