The BMW X4 is a compact luxury crossover SUV produced in two generations: the first-generation F26 (2015-2018) and the second-generation G02 (2019-present, including 2023, 2024, and 2025 model years).
The vehicle is offered exclusively with all-wheel drive (xDrive) and is available in multiple powertrain configurations across all production years.
This guide covers BMW X4 towing capacity by model year and configuration, including maximum trailer weight, payload limits, tongue weight, and hitch class requirements.
Following manufacturer-rated towing limits helps protect the engine, transmission, cooling systems, and braking components during trailer operations.
Note: BMW USA has historically stated the X4 is “not recommended for towing” in the domestic owner’s manual, while official BMW specifications for other markets list verified towing ratings.
All values in this guide reference confirmed manufacturer and reference data.
Quick Navigation
2025 BMW X4 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L TwinPower Turbo Inline-4; 3.0L TwinPower Turbo Inline-6 |
| Drivetrain | AWD (xDrive) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Braked) | 4,409 lbs / 2,000 kg |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Unbraked) | 1,653 lbs / 750 kg |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,010 lbs / 458 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | approx. 5,180 lbs / 2,350 kg |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 220 lbs / 100 kg |
| Hitch Class | Class III (aftermarket) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (market-dependent) |
The 2025 BMW X4 supports a maximum braked towing capacity of 4,409 lbs (2,000 kg) across available configurations. Models equipped with the optional tow bar package provide the highest rated trailer weight for this year.
Staying within these towing limits preserves transmission integrity and braking stability during towing operations.
2024 BMW X4 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L TwinPower Turbo Inline-4 (248 hp); 3.0L TwinPower Turbo Inline-6 (382 hp) |
| Drivetrain | AWD (xDrive) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Braked) | 5,700 lbs / 2,585 kg |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Unbraked) | 1,653 lbs / 750 kg |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,201 lbs / 545 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 5,512 lbs / 2,500 kg |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs / 159 kg |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2024 BMW X4 is rated to tow up to 5,700 lbs and carry a maximum payload of 1,201 lbs, regardless of engine choice.
All engine configurations share the same maximum trailer weight rating for this model year.
Observing the tongue weight limit of 350 lbs improves front axle load distribution and reduces trailer sway.
2023 BMW X4 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L TwinPower Turbo Inline-4 (248 hp); 3.0L TwinPower Turbo Inline-6 (382 hp) |
| Drivetrain | AWD (xDrive) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Braked) | 4,409 lbs / 2,000 kg |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Unbraked) | 1,653 lbs / 750 kg |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,010 lbs / 458 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | approx. 5,180 lbs / 2,350 kg |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 220 lbs / 100 kg |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (market-dependent) |
The 2023 BMW X4 carries a braked towing capacity of up to 2,000 kg (4,409 lbs) in markets where towing is officially rated.
Aftermarket Class III hitches such as those from CURT and Stealth Hitches are designed for a custom fit on the 2023 X4.
Trailer brake controllers are strongly advised for loads approaching the maximum trailer weight limit.
2022 BMW X4 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L TwinPower Turbo Inline-4 (248 hp); 3.0L TwinPower Turbo Inline-6 (382 hp); 3.0L Twin-Turbo Inline-6 M (503 hp) |
| Drivetrain | AWD (xDrive) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Braked) | 3,500 lbs / 1,587 kg |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Unbraked) | 1,500 lbs / 680 kg |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | approx. 957-1,201 lbs / 434-545 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | approx. 5,180 lbs / 2,350 kg |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs / 159 kg |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | No (aftermarket required) |
The 2022 BMW X4 offers a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,587 kg) when properly equipped, consistent across all trim levels including the M40i and X4 M. BMW did not offer a factory-installed tow package for the 2022 X4 in the United States, requiring an aftermarket hitch and wiring harness. All three engine configurations share the same maximum trailer weight rating for this model year.
2021 BMW X4 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L TwinPower Turbo Inline-4 (248 hp); 3.0L TwinPower Turbo Inline-6 (382 hp) |
| Drivetrain | AWD (xDrive) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Braked) | 3,500 lbs / 1,587 kg |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Unbraked) | 1,500 lbs / 680 kg |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | approx. 957 lbs / 434 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | approx. 5,180 lbs / 2,350 kg |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs / 159 kg |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | No (aftermarket required) |
The 2021 BMW X4 maintains a maximum braked towing capacity of 3,500 lbs across all trim levels, matching the 2020 and 2022 specifications. Neither the xDrive30i nor the M40i configuration changes the vehicle’s rated trailer weight limit. A properly installed Class III hitch with wiring harness is required before any towing operations are performed.
2020 BMW X4 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L TwinPower Turbo Inline-4 (248 hp); 3.0L TwinPower Turbo Inline-6 (382 hp) |
| Drivetrain | AWD (xDrive) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Braked) | 3,500 lbs / 1,587 kg |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Unbraked) | 1,500 lbs / 680 kg |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | approx. 957 lbs / 434 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | approx. 5,180 lbs / 2,350 kg |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs / 159 kg |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | No (aftermarket required) |
The 2020 BMW X4 supports a maximum braked towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,587 kg) across all configurations. The G02 platform introduced in the 2019 model year carried forward to 2020 without changes to towing specifications. An aftermarket wiring harness is necessary to connect trailer brake lights and turn signals.
2019 BMW X4 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L TwinPower Turbo Inline-4 (248 hp); 3.0L TwinPower Turbo Inline-6 (382 hp) |
| Drivetrain | AWD (xDrive) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Braked) | 3,500 lbs / 1,587 kg |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Unbraked) | 1,500 lbs / 680 kg |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | approx. 957 lbs / 434 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | approx. 5,180 lbs / 2,350 kg |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs / 159 kg |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | No (aftermarket required) |
The 2019 BMW X4 marks the first year of the second-generation G02 platform and shares the same 3,500 lb maximum towing capacity as subsequent G02 model years. The 2019 model introduced a redesigned chassis while maintaining the same braked trailer weight limit as the outgoing F26 generation. Fitment of a 7-pin wiring harness is recommended for trailers that use electric brake controllers.
2018 BMW X4 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L TwinPower Turbo Inline-4 (230 hp); 3.0L TwinPower Turbo Inline-6 (300 hp); 3.0L TwinPower Turbo Inline-6 M40i (355 hp) |
| Drivetrain | AWD (xDrive) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Braked) | 3,500 lbs / 1,587 kg |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Unbraked) | 1,500 lbs / 680 kg |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | approx. 957 lbs / 434 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | approx. 5,070 lbs / 2,300 kg |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs / 159 kg |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | No (aftermarket required) |
The 2018 BMW X4 is the final year of the first-generation F26 platform and retains the same 3,500 lb braked towing capacity as all other F26 model years. The F26 platform offered three engine options without impacting the maximum trailer weight rating. An aftermarket Class III hitch is required to enable trailer towing on this vehicle.
2017 BMW X4 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L TwinPower Turbo Inline-4 (230 hp); 3.0L TwinPower Turbo Inline-6 (300 hp); 3.0L TwinPower Turbo Inline-6 M40i (355 hp) |
| Drivetrain | AWD (xDrive) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Braked) | 3,500 lbs / 1,587 kg |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Unbraked) | 1,500 lbs / 680 kg |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | approx. 957 lbs / 434 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | approx. 5,070 lbs / 2,300 kg |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs / 159 kg |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | No (aftermarket required) |
The 2017 BMW X4 supports a maximum braked towing capacity of 3,500 lbs, consistent with the full F26 generation. Aftermarket tow hitch installation typically costs $100 to $200 in labor, excluding the cost of the hitch and wiring harness. Trailer sway becomes a concern when tongue weight falls below 10 percent of total trailer weight, so proper load distribution is essential.
2016 BMW X4 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L TwinPower Turbo Inline-4 (230 hp); 3.0L TwinPower Turbo Inline-6 (300 hp) |
| Drivetrain | AWD (xDrive) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Braked) | 3,500 lbs / 1,587 kg |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Unbraked) | 1,500 lbs / 680 kg |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | approx. 957 lbs / 434 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | approx. 5,070 lbs / 2,300 kg |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs / 159 kg |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | No (aftermarket required) |
The 2016 BMW X4 carries the same 3,500 lb maximum towing capacity as other F26 model years, with no variation between the xDrive28i and xDrive35i trims. Tongue weight must not exceed 350 lbs (159 kg) to maintain proper front-to-rear weight balance. A frame-mounted hitch is required, as bumper towing is not supported on the X4.
2015 BMW X4 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L TwinPower Turbo Inline-4 (xDrive28i, 230 hp); 3.0L TwinPower Turbo Inline-6 (xDrive35i, 300 hp) |
| Drivetrain | AWD (xDrive) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Braked) | 3,500 lbs / 1,587 kg |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Unbraked) | 1,500 lbs / 680 kg |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | approx. 957 lbs / 434 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | approx. 5,070 lbs / 2,300 kg |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs / 159 kg |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | No (aftermarket required) |
The 2015 BMW X4 is the first production year of the X4 nameplate (F26 generation) and shares the same 3,500 lb braked towing capacity as all subsequent F26 years. Both the four-cylinder and six-cylinder configurations deliver identical trailer weight ratings for this introductory model year. Installing a Class III hitch with a 2-inch receiver is the standard approach for a towing-ready setup on this vehicle.
Towing Equipment and Setup
Proper towing equipment is necessary to safely operate the BMW X4 at or near its maximum rated trailer weight. No factory tow package was offered on the X4 for the United States market across any model year, requiring aftermarket installation.
Key Equipment Components
| Component | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Class III Hitch (2″ receiver) | Frame-mounted connection point for trailer |
| 4-pin wiring harness | Required for light trailers under 1,500 lbs with no trailer brakes |
| 7-pin wiring harness | Required for trailers using electric brake controllers |
| Trailer brake controller | Activates trailer brakes independently for safer stopping |
| Transmission cooler | Reduces heat build-up during sustained heavy towing |
| Trailer sway control | Electronic system that detects and corrects trailer oscillation |
| Proper tire inflation | Load-rated tires at correct PSI support tongue weight and payload |
Normal Towing vs. Heavy Towing Setup
| Factor | Light Towing (under 1,500 lbs) | Heavy Towing (1,500-3,500 lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| Hitch required | Class I or II | Class III (2″ receiver) |
| Wiring harness | 4-pin flat | 7-pin round |
| Trailer brakes | Not required | Required |
| Brake controller | Not required | Strongly recommended |
| Transmission cooler | Not required | Recommended |
| Weight distribution | Standard | Monitor tongue weight closely |
A weight-distributing hitch is not rated for use with the BMW X4 given its GVWR and platform design. Aftermarket Class III hitches designed for the X4 carry a maximum gross trailer weight rating of 3,500 lbs and 350 lbs tongue weight, aligning with manufacturer towing specifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum towing capacity of a BMW X4?
The BMW X4 has a maximum braked towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,587 kg) for model years 2015 through 2022. The 2024 model year is rated up to 5,700 lbs (2,585 kg) in certain configurations, while 2023 and 2025 models are rated at 4,409 lbs (2,000 kg) in markets where towing is officially supported. Always confirm towing capacity using the vehicle owner’s manual for your specific market and model year.
How much can a BMW X4 tow with a tow package?
BMW did not offer a factory tow package for the X4 in the United States across any production year. With an aftermarket Class III hitch and 7-pin wiring harness, the X4 can tow up to 3,500 lbs (1,587 kg) for 2015-2022 model years. Maximum towing capacity does not change based on engine configuration within any given model year.
Does the engine choice affect BMW X4 towing capacity?
Engine configuration does not alter the maximum towing capacity of the BMW X4 across any model year. All trim levels, including the base xDrive30i and performance-oriented M40i, share the same trailer weight limit. The engine choice affects towing performance characteristics such as acceleration and sustained power, but not the manufacturer-rated weight ceiling.
What is the unbraked towing capacity of a BMW X4?
The BMW X4 has an unbraked towing capacity of 1,500 lbs (680 kg) for model years 2015 through 2022. For 2023 onward, the unbraked trailer weight limit is 750 kg (1,653 lbs) per international standards. Trailers without independent braking systems must not exceed this limit under any circumstance.
Do I need a weight-distributing hitch for a BMW X4?
A weight-distributing hitch is not recommended or rated for use with the BMW X4. The vehicle’s GVWR and hitch class limit towing setups to standard dead-weight hitching arrangements. Managing tongue weight within the 350 lb (159 kg) limit provides adequate stability without the need for a weight-distributing system.
What trailer weight is safe for a BMW X4?
A safe trailer weight for the BMW X4 is any load at or below the manufacturer-rated maximum, with tongue weight kept between 10 and 15 percent of total trailer weight. For 2015-2022 models, this means trailers up to 3,500 lbs with a tongue weight not exceeding 350 lbs. Regularly inspecting the hitch, ball mount, and wiring connections before towing reduces the risk of mechanical failure.
Conclusion
The BMW X4 towing capacity ranges from 3,500 lbs (1,587 kg) for first- and second-generation models (2015-2022) up to 5,700 lbs (2,585 kg) for the 2024 model year in specific configurations. The vehicle’s engine configuration does not influence the maximum trailer weight rating; all trim levels within a given year share the same towing limits. Aftermarket Class III hitch installation is required across all model years for the US market, as no factory tow package was offered. Towing performance is consistent across the xDrive drivetrain platform, which spans the entire production run from 2015 onward.
Always verify towing specifications using the owner’s manual specific to your vehicle’s market and model year before towing heavy loads.
