BMW->ke178 is falling in love with SUVs,->ke145 as it’s already added the X4->ke2999 to its growing lineup, and the X2 is just around the corner. What’s also right around the corner is the X4 M. According to a new report out of Europe, it appears as if BMW will actually release an X4 M40i just ahead of the full-blown M version.

The report continues by saying that the X4 M40i will come equipped with a 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo engine that puts out around 350 horsepower. This would give it 50 more horsepower than the current range-topping xDrive35i version of the 2015 BMW X4.

Mated to this more powerful engine will reportedly be a revised version of the existing eight-speed Steptronic transmission. Of course, this model will come standard with Bimmer’s xDrive all-wheel drive. With this drivetrain, we’d likely be looking at a 0-to-60 time of just about five seconds.

In addition to the extra pep, BMW will also work on this sportier X4’s chassis. Look for stiffer springs, larger anti-sway bars, a revised steering system, and better brakes. Also look for some styling bits, like an M Performance aero kit, special wheels, and an upgraded cabin.

According to sources close to BMW, this model will hit the market in the U.K. in the first quarter of 2016. With such a short time between now and its debut, don’t be shocked to see a concept sometime soon. What’s more, reports indicate spy shooters have already caught this model testing.

Continue reading for the full story.

Why it matters

Ugh…. Do we really need any more German-born super-niche cars on the market? Apparently, BMW seems to think so, as it just won’t stop. I can only guess that people are actually buying these monstrosities, as the Bavarian automaker just keeps on cranking them out. Believe me, I don’t just have it out for all SUVs or even all performance SUVs. Instead, I have it out for these large-footprint crossover->ke288 coupes that do little more than haul the kiddos around due to the funky angles of their roofs. Cal me old-school, but they seem useless to me…

2015 BMW X4

Read our full review here.