BMW X1 F48 vs Renault Koleos KOL
BMW X1
F48 · 2015 – 2022
The second-generation X1 (F48), front-wheel-drive based (UKL2).
Renault Koleos
KOL · 2016 – 2026
The Koleos (KOL), a mid-size SUV on the CMF-CD platform.
BMW X1
Pick the X1 for sharp BMW handling with a raised driving position and proven engines.
Renault Koleos
Pick the Koleos for a roomy, comfortable diesel SUV with optional all-wheel drive.
Performance
B48 20i · Petrol vs 1.7 Blue dCi 150 · Diesel
| BMW X1 | Renault Koleos | |
|---|---|---|
| Power |
192 hp
Winner
|
150 hp
|
| Torque |
280 Nm
|
340 Nm
Winner
|
| 0–100 km/h |
7,7 s
Winner
|
11,8 s
|
| Top speed |
226 km/h
Winner
|
194 km/h
|
| Power-to-weight |
127,6 hp/t
Winner
|
92,6 hp/t
|
| CO₂ emissions (WLTP) |
134 g/km
|
128 g/km
Winner
|
| Consumption (WLTP) |
5,9 L/100km
|
5,0 L/100km
Winner
|
Dimensions & space
| BMW X1 | Renault Koleos | |
|---|---|---|
| Boot |
505 L
Winner
|
458 L
|
| Boot (seats folded) |
1.550 L
|
1.690 L
Winner
|
| Wheelbase |
2,67 m
|
2,71 m
Winner
|
| Length |
4,44 m
|
4,67 m
|
| Ground clearance |
18,3 cm
|
—
|
| Turning circle |
11,4 m
|
11,4 m
|
| Towing capacity (braked) |
2.000 kg
|
2.000 kg
|
Powertrain & tech
| BMW X1 | Renault Koleos | |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | UKL2 (front-wheel-drive base) | CMF-CD |
| Drive | Front-wheel drive · All-wheel drive | Front-wheel drive · All-wheel drive |
| Engine family | B38 1.5 · B48 2.0 · B47 2.0 diesel · 25e PHEV | 1.6 dCi · 1.7 Blue dCi · 2.0 dCi |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Fuel | Petrol | Diesel |
| Euro standard | Euro 6d-TEMP | Euro 6d |
| LEZ access | Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation) | ⚠️ Banned from Antwerp & Ghent from January 1, 2029 |
Reliability & watch-outs
Known issues
- Engine mounts can wear early
- Cooling system needs checking
- Early timing-chain tensioners (B48/B47) & EGR on diesels
- EDC automatic: juddery at low speed
- AdBlue/DPF on short-trip use
- Electronics and infotainment: glitches
Pros
- Spacious cabin & big boot
- Efficient engines
- Practical and family-friendly
- Roomy boot and rear seat
- Comfortable, composed ride
- 2.0 dCi with all-wheel drive available
Cons
- Firm ride (run-flat)
- Less playful due to front-wheel drive
- Diesel-only
- Heavier than compact SUVs
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.
Renault Koleos
A relaxed family cruiser rather than a dynamic driver's car, with good visibility. Comfortable and composed for a mid-size SUV, with a soft ride that prioritises long-distance refinement. Steering is light and accurate enough for the size but lacks strong feedback. Body control is adequate, though some examples feel soft over larger bumps. Diesels provide strong low-end torque for motorway use and overtaking. X-Tronic CVT automatics are smooth once under way but can feel sluggish or noisy under hard acceleration. AWD versions add traction in poor conditions but increase weight.
Belgian taxes & LEZ
