BMW X4 F26 vs BMW X5 G05

BMW X4

F26 · 2014 – 2018

The first-generation X4 (F26), on the F25 X3 platform.

BMW X5

G05 · 2018 – 2023

The fourth-generation X5 (G05), on the CLAR platform.

First car

Second car

Pick this one if…

BMW X4

Pick the F26 only with documented N20 chain work or a later build — otherwise the timing-chain risk is real.

Best engine: The xDrive28i (N20, 245 hp) or xDrive30d (N57).

Read the full guide

Pick this one if…

BMW X5

Pick the X5 for a luxurious cabin, strong engines and generous space in a large premium SUV.

Best engine: The xDrive30d (diesel) or xDrive40i (petrol).

Read the full guide

Performance

xDrive28i · Petrol vs B58 40i · Petrol

	BMW X4	BMW X5
Power	245 hp	340 hp Winner
Torque	350 Nm	450 Nm Winner
0–100 km/h	6,4 s	5,5 s Winner
Top speed	232 km/h	243 km/h Winner
Power-to-weight	136,5 hp/t	159,3 hp/t Winner
CO₂ emissions (WLTP)	179 g/km Winner	198 g/km
Consumption (WLTP)	7,2 L/100km Winner	8,6 L/100km

Dimensions & space

	BMW X4	BMW X5
Boot	500 L	650 L Winner
Boot (seats folded)	1.400 L	1.870 L Winner
Wheelbase	2,81 m	2,98 m Winner
Length	4,67 m	4,92 m
Ground clearance	20,0 cm	21,4 cm
Turning circle	11,9 m Winner	12,6 m
Towing capacity (braked)	2.000 kg	3.500 kg Winner

Powertrain & tech

	BMW X4	BMW X5
Platform	F25 (F26, xDrive)	CLAR (longitudinal)
Drive	All-wheel drive	All-wheel drive
Engine family	N20/N55 petrol · N47/B47 · N57 diesel	B58 3.0 petrol · B57 3.0 diesel · 45e PHEV
Transmission	8-speed automatic	8-speed Steptronic
Fuel	Petrol	Petrol
Euro standard	Euro 6	Euro 6d-TEMP
LEZ access	Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation)	Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation)

Reliability & watch-outs

Known issues

BMW X4

N20 timing chain and tensioner (biggest risk)
Electric water pump and coolant loss
Oil-filter housing and valve-cover leaks

BMW X5

Transfer case (xDrive) needs maintenance
Air suspension (if fitted)
Cooling system/EGR on diesels

Pros

BMW X4

First X4: more aggressive style than the X3 F25
N55 (35i) is the reliable petrol choice
B47 diesel (20d/25d) much improved over N47

BMW X5

Luxurious, premium interior
Strong B57/B58 engines
Light, stiff CLAR body

Cons

BMW X4

N20 cold-start chain rattle is a warning sign
Sloping roof limits rear headroom

BMW X5

High running costs
Air suspension & xDrive upkeep

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 X5

Luxurious, composed and surprisingly agile for its size. Steering is accurate and well-weighted, body control excellent, and the X5 hides its bulk through bends with real composure. xDrive delivers tenacious all-weather grip and a reassuringly planted feel. Air suspension, where fitted, spans cushioned to firmly controlled and irons out rough roads. The B58 petrols are smooth and muscular, the B57 diesels pull strongly and stay hushed, and the xDrive45e plug-in glides on electric power. The ZF 8-speed is quick, seamless and always in the right gear. Overall a polished, capable luxury SUV that feels smaller and sharper than it is.