BMW X1 E84 vs BMW X4 F26
BMW X1
E84 · 2009 – 2015
The first-generation X1 (E84), rear-wheel-drive based.
BMW X4
F26 · 2014 – 2018
The first-generation X4 (F26), on the F25 X3 platform.
BMW X1
Pick the X1 for sharp BMW handling with a raised driving position and proven engines.
BMW X4
Pick the F26 only with documented N20 chain work or a later build — otherwise the timing-chain risk is real.
Performance
N20 20i · Petrol vs xDrive28i · Petrol
| BMW X1 | BMW X4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Power |
184 hp
|
245 hp
Winner
|
| Torque |
270 Nm
|
350 Nm
Winner
|
| 0–100 km/h |
7,7 s
|
6,4 s
Winner
|
| Top speed |
205 km/h
|
232 km/h
Winner
|
| Power-to-weight |
121,1 hp/t
|
136,5 hp/t
Winner
|
| CO₂ emissions (WLTP) |
168 g/km
Winner
|
179 g/km
|
| Consumption (WLTP) |
6,7 L/100km
Winner
|
7,2 L/100km
|
Dimensions & space
| BMW X1 | BMW X4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Boot |
420 L
|
500 L
Winner
|
| Boot (seats folded) |
1.350 L
|
1.400 L
Winner
|
| Wheelbase |
2,76 m
|
2,81 m
Winner
|
| Length |
4,45 m
|
4,67 m
|
| Ground clearance |
18,3 cm
|
20,0 cm
|
| Turning circle |
11,8 m
Winner
|
11,9 m
|
| Towing capacity (braked) |
1.800 kg
|
2.000 kg
Winner
|
Powertrain & tech
| BMW X1 | BMW X4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | E84 (E90 3 Series base, rear-wheel drive) | F25 (F26, xDrive) |
| Drive | Rear-wheel drive · All-wheel drive | All-wheel drive |
| Engine family | N20 2.0 petrol · N47 2.0 diesel · N55 3.0 (xDrive35i) | N20/N55 petrol · N47/B47 · N57 diesel |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Fuel | Petrol | Petrol |
| Euro standard | Euro 5 | Euro 6 |
| LEZ access | Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation) | Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation) |
Reliability & watch-outs
Known issues
- N47 timing chain (pre-2011)
- Transfer case (xDrive)
- Cooling system needs checking
- N20 timing chain and tensioner (biggest risk)
- Electric water pump and coolant loss
- Oil-filter housing and valve-cover leaks
Pros
- Handling thanks to rear-wheel drive
- Compact footprint
- Good headroom
- 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
- Firm ride
- Small boot for the class
- N20 cold-start chain rattle is a warning sign
- Sloping roof limits rear headroom
Driving experience
BMW X1
—
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.
Belgian taxes & LEZ
