TWO performance-oriented SUVs will be making their debut when BMW launches an all-new range of X4 models later in the year.

The second generation of the Bavarian car maker's top-selling sports activity coupe will have its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

Prices for the new line up start from £42,900 - some £4,000 more than the outgoing models - with the first of the high powered derivatives, the M40d, available from £55,315.

The new X4 is some 3.5-inches longer and more than an inch wider than before and comes with bold body styling including new-look horizontal LED fog lamps.

The wheelbase has also been extended by some two inches which has created more space inside and increased luggage capacity to 525 litres, extending to a maximum of 1,430 litres - a suitcase more than the original.

Now almost as large as a Range Rover Velar, the new X4 will be turning up the heat with the M Performance models powered by 3.0-litre straight six engines with minimal difference in performance between diesel and petrol alternatives.

First out of the blocks will be the X4 M40d which has 326hp on tap giving it a 0 to 60 time of 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 155mph yet. Official fuel return is 44.1mpg with emissions of 170 g/km.

That will be followed by the M40i petrol version which is 360hp engine that shaves 0.1 seconds off the acceleration time and is rated at 31.4mpg with a CO2 figure of 209g/km.

The most fuel efficient version will be the entry level X20d which has a four cylinder diesel delivering 190hp and an average of 52.3mpg. Its CO2 figure is 142g/km.

All models have sports suspension and eight speed steptronic auto transmissions and with BMW's xDrive 4x4 system have a wading ability of 20-inches with eight inches of ground clearance.

To enhance the sporty characteristics, BMW has reduced the weight of the new X4 by up to 50kg with variable drive modes and suspension settings while wheel sizes range from 18 to 21 inches.

New features include BMW's display key which incorporates a 2.2-inch screen in the fob to show fuel data and service status and all versions have full smartphone connectivity with access to BMW's Connected Drive systems.

A larger head up display is available as an option and so is a panoramic sunroof that is now almost a metre square.

The new X4 also features a 3D parking display system and can operate semi-autonomously via an adaptive cruise control system.

Prices for the M40i and the X4 30d which is also due for release later in the year are still be announced.