BMW X1 F48 vs BMW X4 F26
BMW X1
F48 · 2015 – 2022
The second-generation X1 (F48), front-wheel-drive based (UKL2).
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
B48 20i · Petrol vs xDrive28i · Petrol
| BMW X1 | BMW X4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Power |
192 hp
|
245 hp
Winner
|
| Torque |
280 Nm
|
350 Nm
Winner
|
| 0–100 km/h |
7,7 s
|
6,4 s
Winner
|
| Top speed |
226 km/h
|
232 km/h
Winner
|
| Power-to-weight |
127,6 hp/t
|
136,5 hp/t
Winner
|
| CO₂ emissions (WLTP) |
134 g/km
Winner
|
179 g/km
|
| Consumption (WLTP) |
5,9 L/100km
Winner
|
7,2 L/100km
|
Dimensions & space
| BMW X1 | BMW X4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Boot |
505 L
Winner
|
500 L
|
| Boot (seats folded) |
1.550 L
Winner
|
1.400 L
|
| Wheelbase |
2,67 m
|
2,81 m
Winner
|
| Length |
4,44 m
|
4,67 m
|
| Ground clearance |
18,3 cm
|
20,0 cm
|
| Turning circle |
11,4 m
Winner
|
11,9 m
|
| Towing capacity (braked) |
2.000 kg
|
2.000 kg
|
Powertrain & tech
| BMW X1 | BMW X4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | UKL2 (front-wheel-drive base) | F25 (F26, xDrive) |
| Drive | Front-wheel drive · All-wheel drive | All-wheel drive |
| Engine family | B38 1.5 · B48 2.0 · B47 2.0 diesel · 25e PHEV | N20/N55 petrol · N47/B47 · N57 diesel |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Fuel | Petrol | Petrol |
| Euro standard | Euro 6d-TEMP | Euro 6 |
| LEZ access | Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation) | Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation) |
Reliability & watch-outs
Known issues
- Engine mounts can wear early
- Cooling system needs checking
- Early timing-chain tensioners (B48/B47) & EGR on diesels
- N20 timing chain and tensioner (biggest risk)
- Electric water pump and coolant loss
- Oil-filter housing and valve-cover leaks
Pros
- Spacious cabin & big boot
- Efficient engines
- Practical and family-friendly
- 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 (run-flat)
- Less playful due to front-wheel drive
- N20 cold-start chain rattle is a warning sign
- Sloping roof limits rear headroom
Driving experience
BMW X1
Confident, refined and remarkably car-like for a compact crossover. Steering is quick and accurate, body control composed, and the X1 feels light and easy to place. The transverse UKL2 platform swaps the old E84’s rear-drive character for front-drive agility and more space; sDrive stays nimble, xDrive adds wet-weather traction. Comfort depends on spec: supple on standard springs and sensible wheels, firmer and choppier on M Sport and run-flats. The B48 20i is the pick, smooth and willing; the B47 diesels pull strongly and stay hushed. Overall a polished small SUV that drives like a raised hatch, not a soft-roader.
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
