BMW X3 G01 vs BMW X4 G02
BMW X3
G01 · 2017 – 2024
The third-generation X3 (G01), on the CLAR platform.
BMW X4
G02 · 2018 – 2026
The second-generation X4 (G02), on the CLAR platform shared with the X3 G01.
BMW X3
Pick the X3 for sharp handling, a big boot and strong engines in a premium mid-size SUV.
BMW X4
Pick the G02 for the B58 M40i and a more dynamic, refined package than the F26.
Performance
B48 20i · Petrol vs M40i · Petrol
| BMW X3 | BMW X4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Power |
184 hp
|
360 hp
Winner
|
| Torque |
290 Nm
|
500 Nm
Winner
|
| 0–100 km/h |
8,3 s
|
4,8 s
Winner
|
| Top speed |
215 km/h
|
250 km/h
Winner
|
| Power-to-weight |
105,4 hp/t
|
188,0 hp/t
Winner
|
| CO₂ emissions (WLTP) |
154 g/km
Winner
|
191 g/km
|
| Consumption (WLTP) |
6,8 L/100km
Winner
|
8,2 L/100km
|
Dimensions & space
| BMW X3 | BMW X4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Boot |
550 L
Winner
|
525 L
|
| Boot (seats folded) |
1.600 L
Winner
|
1.430 L
|
| Wheelbase |
2,86 m
|
2,86 m
|
| Length |
4,71 m
|
4,75 m
|
| Ground clearance |
20,4 cm
|
20,0 cm
|
| Turning circle |
12,0 m
Winner
|
12,1 m
|
| Towing capacity (braked) |
2.000 kg
|
2.000 kg
|
Powertrain & tech
| BMW X3 | BMW X4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | CLAR (rear-wheel-drive base) | CLAR (G02, 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 | B48/B58 petrol · B47/B57 diesel (mild-hybrid) |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Fuel | Petrol | Petrol |
| Euro standard | Euro 6d-TEMP | Euro 6d |
| 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
- Cooling-system plastics and water pumps
- Oil-filter housing gasket leaks (B48/B58)
- EGR/DPF/AdBlue attention on diesels
Pros
- Sharp handling from rear-wheel drive
- Big boot & roomy rear seat
- Strong, efficient B-series engines
- 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 on M Sport (run-flat)
- Pricier than most rivals
- Sloping roof reduces rear headroom versus the X3
- Firm ride on M Sport adaptive suspension and larger wheels
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 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
