BMW X1 E84 vs BMW X4 G02

BMW X1
E84 · 2009 – 2015
The first-generation X1 (E84), rear-wheel-drive based.

BMW X4
G02 · 2018 – 2026
The second-generation X4 (G02), on the CLAR platform shared with the X3 G01.
BMW X1
Pick the X1 for sharp BMW handling with a raised driving position and proven engines.
BMW X4
Pick the G02 for the B58 M40i and a more dynamic, refined package than the F26.
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
- N47 timing chain (pre-2011)
- Transfer case (xDrive)
- Cooling system needs checking
- Cooling-system plastics and water pumps
- Oil-filter housing gasket leaks (B48/B58)
- EGR/DPF/AdBlue attention on diesels
Pros
- Handling thanks to rear-wheel drive
- Compact footprint
- Good headroom
- 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
- Firm ride
- Small boot for the class
- Sloping roof reduces rear headroom versus the X3
- Firm ride on M Sport adaptive suspension and larger wheels
Driving experience
BMW X1
—
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