Facing a huge desire to make an M version of the X4 and struggling to make a business case for it, BMW decided to compromise and make the next best thing. This is the new BMW X4 M40i, a hotted-up version of the Sports Activity Coupe with 355 horsepower.

Powered by the firm’s celebrated 3.0 liter straight-six turbo, BMW X4 M40i packs 355 hp and a maximum torque of 343 lb-ft, resulting in a 0 to 100 km/h sprint in 4.7 seconds, which is a best in class figure. What’s more, the car is fitted with stronger springs and stabilizers, increased camber on the front axle, and adaptive dampers specifically tuned to M Performance specifications. So to drive, the M40i is a world apart from its normal siblings.

Visually, the fully M Performance kitted-out BMW X4 M40i comes with distinctive Ferric Gray metallic accents on the front of the vehicle and side mirrors, as well as the exclusive 20-inch M light-alloy wheels. Black Chrome tailpipes are another highlight of the exterior, and they are connected to a port exhaust system with valve control. Inside the cabin you get M leather wrapped steering wheel, M gear shift lever, sport seats, model-specific door sills and “X4 M40i” digital lettering.

The new BMW X4 M40i will hit the market in February 2016. Pricing is yet to be announced.