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BMW X1 E84 vs BMW X4 G02

BMW X1

BMW X1

E84 · 2009 – 2015

The first-generation X1 (E84), rear-wheel-drive based.

VS
BMW X4

BMW X4

G02 · 2018 – 2026

The second-generation X4 (G02), on the CLAR platform shared with the X3 G01.

First car
Second car
Pick this one if…

BMW X1

Pick the X1 for sharp BMW handling with a raised driving position and proven engines.

Best engine: The 20i (N20 petrol) or 20d (N47 diesel).
Read the full guide
Pick this one if…

BMW X4

Pick the G02 for the B58 M40i and a more dynamic, refined package than the F26.

Best engine: The M40i (B58, 360 hp) — the standout.
Read the full guide

Performance

N20 20i · Petrol vs M40i · Petrol

BMW X1 BMW X4
Power
184 hp
360 hp Winner
Torque
270 Nm
500 Nm Winner
0–100 km/h
7,7 s
4,8 s Winner
Top speed
205 km/h
250 km/h Winner
Power-to-weight
121,1 hp/t
188,0 hp/t Winner
CO₂ emissions (WLTP)
168 g/km Winner
191 g/km
Consumption (WLTP)
6,7 L/100km Winner
8,2 L/100km

Dimensions & space

BMW X1 BMW X4
Boot
420 L
525 L Winner
Boot (seats folded)
1.350 L
1.430 L Winner
Wheelbase
2,76 m
2,86 m Winner
Length
4,45 m
4,75 m
Ground clearance
18,3 cm
20,0 cm
Turning circle
11,8 m Winner
12,1 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) CLAR (G02, 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) B48/B58 petrol · B47/B57 diesel (mild-hybrid)
Transmission 8-speed automatic 8-speed automatic
Fuel Petrol Petrol
Euro standard Euro 5 Euro 6d
LEZ access Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation) Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation)

Reliability & watch-outs

Known issues

BMW X1
  • N47 timing chain (pre-2011)
  • Transfer case (xDrive)
  • Cooling system needs checking
BMW X4
  • Cooling-system plastics and water pumps
  • Oil-filter housing gasket leaks (B48/B58)
  • EGR/DPF/AdBlue attention on diesels

Pros

BMW X1
  • Handling thanks to rear-wheel drive
  • Compact footprint
  • Good headroom
BMW X4
  • B58 M40i is strong, free-revving and the standout
  • Facelift (2021) brought mild-hybrid tech on many diesels
  • More dynamic and refined than the F26

Cons

BMW X1
  • Firm ride
  • Small boot for the class
BMW X4
  • Sloping roof reduces rear headroom versus the X3
  • Firm ride on M Sport adaptive suspension and larger wheels

Driving experience

BMW X1

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BMW X4

More dynamic and refined than the F26. Steering is accurate and well-weighted, body control is good, and the car feels planted and secure with xDrive. It is engaging for a crossover but prioritises composure and refinement over pure sharpness. Adaptive suspension (where fitted) offers a useful range between firm and acceptable comfort. The B58 M40i is the standout: strong, refined, free-revving and characterful with excellent mid-range punch. B48 four-cylinder petrols are smooth and responsive. Diesels (especially the B57 sixes) deliver strong low-end torque and effortless cruising. Overall a stylish, capable crossover that balances road presence, dynamics and everyday usability better than its predecessor.

Belgian taxes & LEZ

Region
Fuel
Euro norm
First registration
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For sale at dealers