BMW iX3 G08 vs BMW X4 F26

BMW iX3

G08 · 2020 – 2026

The first-generation iX3 (G08), BMW’s electric mid-size SUV on the X3’s CLAR platform.

BMW X4

F26 · 2014 – 2018

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

First car

Second car

Pick this one if…

BMW iX3

Pick the G08 for the electric X3 with a single rear motor, ~74 kWh usable battery and up to ~500 km WLTP range.

Best engine: The iX3 (286 hp, rear-wheel drive) — the only powertrain.

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

iX3 · Electric vs xDrive28i · Petrol

	BMW iX3	BMW X4
Power	286 hp Winner	245 hp
Torque	400 Nm Winner	350 Nm
0–100 km/h	6,8 s	6,4 s Winner
Top speed	180 km/h	232 km/h Winner
Power-to-weight	131,2 hp/t	136,5 hp/t Winner
CO₂ emissions (WLTP)	0 g/km Winner	179 g/km
Consumption (WLTP)	—	7,2 L/100km

Dimensions & space

	BMW iX3	BMW X4
Boot	510 L Winner	500 L
Boot (seats folded)	1.560 L Winner	1.400 L
Wheelbase	2,86 m Winner	2,81 m
Length	4,73 m	4,67 m
Ground clearance	17,9 cm	20,0 cm
Turning circle	12,1 m	11,9 m Winner
Towing capacity (braked)	2.000 kg	2.000 kg

Powertrain & tech

	BMW iX3	BMW X4
Platform	CLAR (electric)	F25 (F26, xDrive)
Drive	Rear-wheel drive	All-wheel drive
Engine family	Single rear-axle electric motor (PSM, fifth-generation eDrive)	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

BMW iX3

12V battery issues (occasional reports)
Parking-sensor/camera faults and interior rattles
Higher tyre wear due to weight and torque

BMW X4

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

Pros

BMW iX3

Facelift (2021) brought better efficiency and range
~74 kWh net battery with 471–505 km WLTP (post-facelift)
DC fast charging up to 150 kW (10–80% in ~32–34 min)

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

BMW iX3

Rear-wheel drive only, no xDrive
No frunk, despite the EV concept

BMW X4

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

Driving experience

BMW iX3

The iX3 is refined and composed rather than playful. Steering is accurate and reasonably weighted, body control is good, and the car feels stable and secure at speed. Ride quality is firm but generally well-controlled — better than many early EVs on adaptive suspension, though larger wheels and the M Sport suspension make it busier over poor surfaces. Instant torque makes it quick off the line, and the single-motor rear-drive layout gives balanced, predictable handling without the artificial feel of some dual-motor systems. Cabin noise is low; wind and tyre roar are the main sounds at motorway speeds. Regenerative braking is strong and well-calibrated (one-pedal driving is possible). Overall it drives like a polished, slightly firmer X3 with electric silence and response — competent and relaxing rather than involving.

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.