BMW iX1 U11 vs Renault Koleos KOL
BMW iX1
U11 · 2022 – 2026
The first-generation iX1 (U11), BMW’s fully electric compact SUV on the FAAR platform.
Renault Koleos
KOL · 2016 – 2026
The Koleos (KOL), a mid-size SUV on the CMF-CD platform.
BMW iX1
Pick the U11 for BMW’s smallest electric SUV with a usable 490-litre boot and the punchy dual-motor xDrive30.
Renault Koleos
Pick the Koleos for a roomy, comfortable diesel SUV with optional all-wheel drive.
Performance
xDrive30 · Electric vs 1.7 Blue dCi 150 · Diesel
| BMW iX1 | Renault Koleos | |
|---|---|---|
| Power |
313 hp
Winner
|
150 hp
|
| Torque |
494 Nm
Winner
|
340 Nm
|
| 0–100 km/h |
5,6 s
Winner
|
11,8 s
|
| Top speed |
180 km/h
|
194 km/h
Winner
|
| Power-to-weight |
150,1 hp/t
Winner
|
92,6 hp/t
|
| CO₂ emissions (WLTP) |
0 g/km
Winner
|
128 g/km
|
| Consumption (WLTP) |
—
|
5,0 L/100km
|
Dimensions & space
| BMW iX1 | Renault Koleos | |
|---|---|---|
| Boot |
490 L
Winner
|
458 L
|
| Boot (seats folded) |
1.495 L
|
1.690 L
Winner
|
| Wheelbase |
2,69 m
|
2,71 m
Winner
|
| Length |
4,50 m
|
4,67 m
|
| Ground clearance |
17,0 cm
|
—
|
| Turning circle |
11,9 m
|
11,4 m
Winner
|
| Towing capacity (braked) |
1.200 kg
|
2.000 kg
Winner
|
Powertrain & tech
| BMW iX1 | Renault Koleos | |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | FAAR (electric) | CMF-CD |
| Drive | Front-wheel drive · All-wheel drive | Front-wheel drive · All-wheel drive |
| Engine family | Single front motor (eDrive20) · dual front + rear motors (xDrive30) | 1.6 dCi · 1.7 Blue dCi · 2.0 dCi |
| Transmission | Single-speed automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Fuel | Electric | Diesel |
| Euro standard | N/A (electric) | Euro 6d |
| LEZ access | Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation) | ⚠️ Banned from Antwerp & Ghent from January 1, 2029 |
Reliability & watch-outs
Known issues
- OS8/OS9 software: connectivity and CarPlay glitches (mostly fixed via update)
- IBS recall (2022–2024): brake assist/ABS — verify via VIN
- 12V battery can drain when parked or with frequent app use
- EDC automatic: juddery at low speed
- AdBlue/DPF on short-trip use
- Electronics and infotainment: glitches
Pros
- Fifth-generation eDrive motors are notably efficient
- Large usable battery (~65 kWh) with 430–514 km WLTP range
- xDrive30 delivers 313 hp with all-wheel drive
- Roomy boot and rear seat
- Comfortable, composed ride
- 2.0 dCi with all-wheel drive available
Cons
- DC fast charging peaks around 130 kW — slower than some rivals
- Regenerative braking takes getting used to in Efficient mode
- Diesel-only
- Heavier than compact SUVs
Driving experience
BMW iX1
Quiet, refined and responsive in typical EV fashion. Instant torque makes it feel brisk in traffic. Steering is accurate and reasonably weighted for a crossover; body control is good and the car feels planted. The xDrive30 (dual motor) is notably quicker and more secure in poor conditions; the eDrive20 (front-drive) is lighter and more efficient. Regenerative braking is strong in Efficient mode and takes some getting used to. Adaptive suspension (where fitted) helps, but the car can feel firm on poor Belgian roads, especially with larger wheels. Overall a capable, composed electric crossover rather than a pure driver’s car.
Renault Koleos
A relaxed family cruiser rather than a dynamic driver's car, with good visibility. Comfortable and composed for a mid-size SUV, with a soft ride that prioritises long-distance refinement. Steering is light and accurate enough for the size but lacks strong feedback. Body control is adequate, though some examples feel soft over larger bumps. Diesels provide strong low-end torque for motorway use and overtaking. X-Tronic CVT automatics are smooth once under way but can feel sluggish or noisy under hard acceleration. AWD versions add traction in poor conditions but increase weight.
Belgian taxes & LEZ
For sale at dealers
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