BMW X3 G01 vs BMW X4 F26
BMW X3
G01 · 2017 – 2024
The third-generation X3 (G01), on the CLAR platform.
BMW X4
F26 · 2014 – 2018
The first-generation X4 (F26), on the F25 X3 platform.
BMW X3
Pick the X3 for sharp handling, a big boot and strong engines in a premium mid-size SUV.
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 X3 | BMW X4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Power |
184 hp
|
245 hp
Winner
|
| Torque |
290 Nm
|
350 Nm
Winner
|
| 0–100 km/h |
8,3 s
|
6,4 s
Winner
|
| Top speed |
215 km/h
|
232 km/h
Winner
|
| Power-to-weight |
105,4 hp/t
|
136,5 hp/t
Winner
|
| CO₂ emissions (WLTP) |
154 g/km
Winner
|
179 g/km
|
| Consumption (WLTP) |
6,8 L/100km
Winner
|
7,2 L/100km
|
Dimensions & space
| BMW X3 | BMW X4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Boot |
550 L
Winner
|
500 L
|
| Boot (seats folded) |
1.600 L
Winner
|
1.400 L
|
| Wheelbase |
2,86 m
Winner
|
2,81 m
|
| Length |
4,71 m
|
4,67 m
|
| Ground clearance |
20,4 cm
|
20,0 cm
|
| Turning circle |
12,0 m
|
11,9 m
Winner
|
| Towing capacity (braked) |
2.000 kg
|
2.000 kg
|
Powertrain & tech
| BMW X3 | BMW X4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | CLAR (rear-wheel-drive base) | F25 (F26, xDrive) |
| Drive | Rear-wheel drive · All-wheel drive | All-wheel drive |
| Engine family | B48 2.0 · B58 3.0 · B47 2.0 diesel · 30e 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
- EGR cooler can leak on B47 diesels
- Transfer case (xDrive) judder on early cars
- Adaptive dampers need checking at high mileage
- N20 timing chain and tensioner (biggest risk)
- Electric water pump and coolant loss
- Oil-filter housing and valve-cover leaks
Pros
- Sharp handling from rear-wheel drive
- Big boot & roomy rear seat
- Strong, efficient B-series engines
- 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 on M Sport (run-flat)
- Pricier than most rivals
- N20 cold-start chain rattle is a warning sign
- Sloping roof limits rear headroom
Driving experience
BMW X3
Poised, accurate and remarkably car-like for an SUV. Steering is quick, well-weighted and precise, body control taut, and the X3 corners with the composure of a lower, lighter car. xDrive brings tenacious all-weather grip and a neutral, rear-biased balance, while the rare sDrive is lighter and more playful. Adaptive suspension keeps it composed on rough roads, if a touch firm on big wheels. The B48/B58 petrols are smooth and eager, the B47/B57 diesels pull strongly and stay hushed, and the xDrive30e plug-in glides on electric power. The ZF 8-speed is quick, seamless and always in the right gear. Overall a polished, driver-focused SUV that shrinks around you on a good road.
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
