BMW X4 F26 vs BMW X4 G02
BMW X4
F26 · 2014 – 2018
The first-generation X4 (F26), on the F25 X3 platform.
BMW X4
G02 · 2018 – 2026
The second-generation X4 (G02), on the CLAR platform shared with the X3 G01.
BMW X4
Pick the F26 only with documented N20 chain work or a later build — otherwise the timing-chain risk is real.
BMW X4
Pick the G02 for the B58 M40i and a more dynamic, refined package than the F26.
Performance
xDrive28i · Petrol vs M40i · Petrol
| BMW X4 | BMW X4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Power |
245 hp
|
360 hp
Winner
|
| Torque |
350 Nm
|
500 Nm
Winner
|
| 0–100 km/h |
6,4 s
|
4,8 s
Winner
|
| Top speed |
232 km/h
|
250 km/h
Winner
|
| Power-to-weight |
136,5 hp/t
|
188,0 hp/t
Winner
|
| CO₂ emissions (WLTP) |
179 g/km
Winner
|
191 g/km
|
| Consumption (WLTP) |
7,2 L/100km
Winner
|
8,2 L/100km
|
Dimensions & space
| BMW X4 | BMW X4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Boot |
500 L
|
525 L
Winner
|
| Boot (seats folded) |
1.400 L
|
1.430 L
Winner
|
| Wheelbase |
2,81 m
|
2,86 m
Winner
|
| Length |
4,67 m
|
4,75 m
|
| Ground clearance |
20,0 cm
|
20,0 cm
|
| Turning circle |
11,9 m
Winner
|
12,1 m
|
| Towing capacity (braked) |
2.000 kg
|
2.000 kg
|
Powertrain & tech
| BMW X4 | BMW X4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | F25 (F26, xDrive) | CLAR (G02, xDrive) |
| Drive | All-wheel drive | All-wheel drive |
| Engine family | N20/N55 petrol · N47/B47 · N57 diesel | B48/B58 petrol · B47/B57 diesel (mild-hybrid) |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Fuel | Petrol | Petrol |
| Euro standard | Euro 6 | Euro 6d |
| LEZ access | Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation) | Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation) |
Reliability & watch-outs
Known issues
- N20 timing chain and tensioner (biggest risk)
- Electric water pump and coolant loss
- Oil-filter housing and valve-cover leaks
- Cooling-system plastics and water pumps
- Oil-filter housing gasket leaks (B48/B58)
- EGR/DPF/AdBlue attention on diesels
Pros
- First X4: more aggressive style than the X3 F25
- N55 (35i) is the reliable petrol choice
- B47 diesel (20d/25d) much improved over N47
- 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
- N20 cold-start chain rattle is a warning sign
- Sloping roof limits rear headroom
- Sloping roof reduces rear headroom versus the X3
- Firm ride on M Sport adaptive suspension and larger wheels
Driving experience
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.
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
