X4 M40i vs E-Class
In the premium luxury vehicle segment, an intriguing comparison emerges between two fundamentally different German machines that happen to compete for similar buyers. The BMW X4 M40i represents the performance-oriented SUV coupe philosophy—combining athletic handling with elevated practicality and aggressive styling. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class embodies traditional luxury sedan excellence—refined, sophisticated, and focused on comfort above all else. While these vehicles serve different purposes—one a coupe-styled crossover, the other a classic sedan—they compete in similar price territory and target discerning buyers seeking German engineering excellence. Whether you’re drawn to the X4’s commanding road presence and sporty character or the E-Class’s timeless elegance and supreme comfort, this comprehensive comparison will help you determine which premium German vehicle deserves your investment in 2025.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Comparison: Different Philosophies
Before diving into specifications, it’s crucial to acknowledge this is an apples-to-oranges comparison. Mercedes-Benz E-Class All Terrain is cheaper than X4 M40i, with the E-Class starting price at ₹75.00 Lakh while BMW X4 M40i’s starting price is ₹96.20 Lakh in India. Internationally, the 2025 BMW X4 M40i has an MSRP of $66,700, positioning it as a premium luxury vehicle.
The comparison works because both vehicles target similar buyers—successful professionals seeking German luxury with performance credentials. The choice ultimately depends on whether you prioritize the commanding presence and versatility of an SUV coupe or the refined elegance and comfort of a traditional sedan.
Pricing: The Value Proposition
The financial investment reveals a meaningful gap. BMW X4 M40i price is Rs. 96.20 Lakh and Mercedes-Benz E-Class price is Rs. 72.80 Lakh, making the E-Class cheaper by approximately Rs. 23.40 lakh—a substantial difference that could cover years of ownership costs or premium options.
The X4 M40i starts at $66,700 in international markets, while various E-Class configurations start significantly lower. This price gap reflects different positioning: the X4 commands a premium for its coupe-SUV exclusivity and performance focus, while the E-Class provides traditional luxury at more accessible pricing.
Engine Performance: Different Power Philosophies
Both vehicles offer impressive powertrains, though their approaches differ fundamentally in character and delivery.
BMW X4 M40i Engine:
For the xDrive variant, the 2998 cc Petrol engine of X4 M40i produces 355 bhp @ 5200-6500 rpm of power and 500 Nm @ 1900-5000 rpm of torque. The turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six generates 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque according to U.S. specifications, augmented by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system.
The inline-six delivers smooth, linear power that builds relentlessly to redline with minimal turbo lag. The mild-hybrid system fills in low-end torque gaps and enables fuel-saving features like stop/start. The BMW X4 xDrive30i can go from 0-60 mph in 6.0 seconds, while the X4 M40i can go from 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds—genuine sports car performance.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Engine:
For the E 220d Exclusive variant, the 1950 cc Diesel engine of E-Class produces 192 bhp @ 3800 rpm of power and 400 Nm @ 1600-2800 rpm of torque. The diesel’s massive torque delivery creates effortless highway cruising and confident overtaking ability.
The E-Class prioritizes refinement over outright performance. The diesel engine delivers smooth, quiet power with exceptional fuel efficiency—perfect for covering distance in supreme comfort rather than attacking corners aggressively.
Fuel Efficiency: Operating Economics
Running costs differ dramatically between these vehicles. The claimed mileage for BMW X4 M40i xDrive is 10.4 kmpl, while Mercedes-Benz E-Class All Terrain E 220d achieves 12.06 kmpl according to ARAI ratings. The E-Class provides significantly better fuel economy—approximately 16% superior efficiency.
The EPA estimates the X4 M40i achieves 22 mpg city and 26 mpg highway in U.S. testing. Real-world highway fuel economy of 28 mpg has been observed, demonstrating the mild-hybrid system’s effectiveness during efficient cruising.
The E-Class’s diesel powertrain provides substantially lower operating costs—critical for buyers covering significant annual mileage. Over 20,000 kilometers annually, the fuel savings could exceed Rs. 50,000-70,000 favoring the Mercedes.
Body Style: SUV Coupe vs Sedan
This fundamental difference defines everything about these vehicles’ characters and practicality.
BMW X4 M40i Design:
The X4 combines coupe styling with SUV proportions, creating a distinctive aesthetic that stands out dramatically. The swooping roofline, aggressive front fascia, and athletic proportions communicate performance intentions clearly. The large double kidney grille and aggressive front bumper show off the X4’s athletic prowess.
The 2025 BMW X4 has cargo capacity of up to 18.5 cubic feet with rear seats upright and up to 50.5 cubic feet when folded down. The elevated ride height provides commanding road visibility, while the coupe-like design sacrifices some headroom compared to traditional SUVs.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Design:
The E-Class maintains Mercedes’s signature elegant design language—understated, sophisticated, and timeless. The proportions are classic sedan perfection, with flowing lines and refined details that communicate luxury without aggression.
The traditional sedan configuration provides superior rear-seat headroom compared to the X4’s sloping roofline, making it more comfortable for rear passengers during extended journeys.
Interior Quality and Comfort: Different Priorities
BMW X4 M40i Interior:
Clean modernity defines the X4’s premium cabin, with comfortable and well-bolstered front seats, excellent driving position and visibility, and driver instruments displayed on a large, crisp digital screen. The standard 12.3-inch Central Information Display provides comprehensive vehicle information.
The X4’s 35.5 inches of rear legroom is less than traditional SUVs, and the coupe roofline reduces rear headroom. The interior prioritizes the driver with sporty seats and performance-oriented controls. Luxurious SensaTec upholstery is standard, with genuine leather available.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Interior:
The E-Class interior represents traditional Mercedes luxury—plush materials, exceptional fit and finish, and supreme comfort. The cabin prioritizes rear-seat passengers with generous space, comfortable seating, and refined ambiance.
Mercedes emphasizes comfort over sportiness, creating a serene environment where road and wind noise are meticulously isolated. The seats are softer and more yielding than the X4’s sport-focused units—perfect for relaxed cruising.
Technology and Features: Modern Convenience
BMW X4 M40i Technology:
The X4 includes BMW Operating System 7 and Intelligent Personal Assistant with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The Active Driving Assistant package includes Frontal Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, and Active Blind Spot Detection.
The available Harman Kardon 16-speaker audio system delivers premium sound quality. The panoramic sunroof helps keep the cabin feeling open despite the coupe-like roofline.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Technology:
The E-Class features Mercedes’s latest MBUX infotainment system with sophisticated voice control, comprehensive connectivity, and extensive driver assistance features. The technology integration emphasizes ease of use and intuitive operation.
User Reviews: Real-World Satisfaction
Which car is better between X4 M40i and E-Class? Mercedes-Benz E-Class All Terrain ranks better on user rating according to aggregate reviews. BMW X4 M40i ranks better in Styling and Performance, while E-Class All Terrain is better in Comfort.
The X4 receives praise for its sleek design, smooth ride, and powerful engine. Owners love the comfortable interior and fancy features, though some mention rough road handling and high maintenance costs.
E-Class owners consistently highlight supreme comfort, exceptional refinement, and the serene driving experience that defines Mercedes luxury sedans.
The Verdict: Choose Your Priority
Declaring a winner oversimplifies what amounts to choosing between fundamentally different vehicle types and philosophies.
Choose the BMW X4 M40i if:
- You want commanding SUV presence and visibility
- Sporty handling and performance are priorities
- The coupe-SUV aesthetic appeals to your taste
- You frequently encounter rough roads or poor weather
- Cargo versatility matters more than rear-seat comfort
- You value athletic driving dynamics over ultimate comfort
- All-wheel drive capability is essential
- You want the most distinctive, eye-catching option
- Performance acceleration thrills you
- You prioritize driver engagement over passenger luxury
Choose the Mercedes-Benz E-Class if:
- Traditional sedan elegance resonates more than SUV presence
- Rear passenger comfort is paramount
- Superior fuel economy lowers operating costs significantly
- You prioritize refinement and quiet comfort
- Lower purchase price provides better value
- You prefer timeless design over bold statements
- Easier entry/exit and better rear headroom matter
- You value Mercedes’s reputation for supreme comfort
- Long-distance highway cruising is your primary use
- You want proven sedan excellence over SUV trends
Final Thoughts: Excellence in Different Forms
The BMW X4 M40i and Mercedes-Benz E-Class represent two outstanding expressions of German automotive excellence. The X4 delivers performance-oriented luxury in a distinctive coupe-SUV package that commands attention and provides versatile capability. It’s the choice for buyers seeking something different—athletic, elevated, and unapologetically sporty.
The E-Class embodies Mercedes’s century of luxury sedan refinement—supremely comfortable, elegantly styled, and focused on providing the finest traveling experience possible. It’s the choice for buyers valuing traditional excellence, proven comfort, and timeless sophistication.
Test drive both vehicles to experience their profoundly different characters. Pay attention to which driving position feels more natural, which interior environment creates more satisfaction, and whether you value the X4’s sporty versatility or the E-Class’s refined comfort more highly.
In this clash of German luxury philosophies, there are no losers—only different paths to automotive satisfaction. Choose the X4 for performance-oriented SUV versatility or the E-Class for traditional luxury sedan excellence. Either way, you’re getting German engineering at its finest in 2025.
