BMW says these forms are reminiscent of energetic flames, such as those from the burning of gas under pressure. This results in a high degree of visual tension, and BMW has purposely made certain elements of the X Coupe's aluminum body asymmetrical to enhance interest in the styling. Flame surfacing continues inside, where aluminum Nubuck leather and neoprene are the primary materials, rendered in patterns that turn from concave to convex and back to concave again.
Colors are purposely discordant to preserve tension in the design.
The dash is flexible, and opens in the center like a mouth to reveal the color monitor of a multifunction control system, such as that introduced on the company's Z9 concept vehicles, which includes an off-road GPS system. To load cargo, the rear portion of the body opens clamshell-style, simultaneously providing access to the small rear seats, as long as the right side door is open. The driver sits up high in the X Coupe, thanks in part to the BMW X5 chassis underneath the radical bodywork. Gauges and controls are all angled toward the driver, resulting in a sporty, cockpit cabin effect. Adjustable pedals mean finding a perfect driving position is that much more simple.