Audi e-tron GE vs BMW X4 F26

Audi e-tron

GE · 2018 – 2025

The first-generation e-tron (GE), Audi’s first all-electric SUV.

BMW X4

F26 · 2014 – 2018

The first-generation X4 (F26), on the F25 X3 platform.

First car

Second car

Pick this one if…

Audi e-tron

Pick the GE for the roomy, quiet e-tron with air suspension and quattro — ideally one with the software updates applied and the high-voltage electronics checked.

Best engine: The 55 quattro (larger battery).

Read the full guide

Pick this one if…

BMW X4

Pick the F26 only with documented N20 chain work or a later build — otherwise the timing-chain risk is real.

Best engine: The xDrive28i (N20, 245 hp) or xDrive30d (N57).

Read the full guide

Performance

55 quattro · Electric vs xDrive28i · Petrol

	Audi e-tron	BMW X4
Power	408 hp Winner	245 hp
Torque	664 Nm Winner	350 Nm
0–100 km/h	5,7 s Winner	6,4 s
Top speed	200 km/h	232 km/h Winner
Power-to-weight	159,1 hp/t Winner	136,5 hp/t
CO₂ emissions (WLTP)	0 g/km Winner	179 g/km
Consumption (WLTP)	—	7,2 L/100km

Dimensions & space

	Audi e-tron	BMW X4
Boot	660 L Winner	500 L
Boot (seats folded)	1.725 L Winner	1.400 L
Wheelbase	2,93 m Winner	2,81 m
Length	4,90 m	4,67 m
Ground clearance	17,2 cm	20,0 cm
Turning circle	12,2 m	11,9 m Winner
Towing capacity (braked)	1.800 kg	2.000 kg Winner

Powertrain & tech

	Audi e-tron	BMW X4
Platform	MLB Evo (electric)	F25 (F26, xDrive)
Drive	All-wheel drive	All-wheel drive
Engine family	Electric motors · 50 quattro / 55 quattro	N20/N55 petrol · N47/B47 · N57 diesel
Transmission	Single-speed automatic	8-speed automatic
Fuel	Electric	Petrol
Euro standard	N/A (electric)	Euro 6
LEZ access	Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation)	Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation)

Reliability & watch-outs

Known issues

Audi e-tron

Software/electronics gremlins on 2019–2020 cars
Coolant leak into the high-voltage electronics (recall on early cars)
Battery and charging-system health check recommended before buying used

BMW X4

N20 timing chain and tensioner (biggest risk)
Electric water pump and coolant loss
Oil-filter housing and valve-cover leaks

Pros

Audi e-tron

Quiet, refined electric ride
Strong DC fast charging
Air-suspension comfort

BMW X4

First X4: more aggressive style than the X3 F25
N55 (35i) is the reliable petrol choice
B47 diesel (20d/25d) much improved over N47

Cons

Audi e-tron

Less efficient than newer EVs
Early software quirks

BMW X4

N20 cold-start chain rattle is a warning sign
Sloping roof limits rear headroom

Driving experience

Audi e-tron

Smooth, silent and effortlessly luxurious. The e-tron rides with genuine isolation, steers lightly and accurately, and accelerates strongly from its dual-motor quattro with none of the fuss of a combustion engine. It is heavy, which shows in corners and in real-world range, but the payoff is a hushed, relaxed calm that suits long journeys. Regenerative braking is strong enough for one-pedal driving in traffic. It was the first large electric SUV from Audi, and it drives more like a luxury saloon than a tall, heavy crossover.

BMW X4

More dynamic than a standard X3 of the same generation. Steering is accurate and reasonably weighted, body control is good, and the car feels planted and secure with xDrive. It is engaging for a crossover but not a pure sports car — weight and the higher centre of gravity are noticeable when pushed. Adaptive suspension (where fitted) helps balance firmness and comfort. The N55 petrol sixes (35i/M40i) deliver strong, linear performance and a characterful engine note. The N20 four-cylinder petrols are competent but less refined. Diesels (especially the N57 sixes) offer strong low-end torque and effortless cruising. Overall a stylish, capable crossover that prioritises road presence and dynamics over maximum practicality.