BMW X4 F26 vs Renault Arkana ARK

BMW X4

F26 · 2014 – 2018

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

Renault Arkana

ARK · 2020 – 2026

The Arkana (ARK), a coupé-SUV on the CMF-B 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…

Renault Arkana

Pick the Arkana for a striking coupé-SUV with a roomy boot and an efficient hybrid.

Best engine: The 1.3 TCe (petrol) or E-Tech hybrid.

Read the full guide

Performance

xDrive28i · Petrol vs 1.3 TCe 140 · Petrol

	BMW X4	Renault Arkana
Power	245 hp Winner	140 hp
Torque	350 Nm Winner	260 Nm
0–100 km/h	6,4 s Winner	9,8 s
Top speed	232 km/h Winner	200 km/h
Power-to-weight	136,5 hp/t Winner	105,3 hp/t
CO₂ emissions (WLTP)	179 g/km	132 g/km Winner
Consumption (WLTP)	7,2 L/100km	5,8 L/100km Winner

Dimensions & space

	BMW X4	Renault Arkana
Boot	500 L Winner	480 L
Boot (seats folded)	1.400 L	1.500 L Winner
Wheelbase	2,81 m Winner	2,72 m
Length	4,67 m	4,57 m
Ground clearance	20,0 cm	—
Turning circle	11,9 m	10,9 m Winner
Towing capacity (braked)	2.000 kg Winner	750 kg

Powertrain & tech

	BMW X4	Renault Arkana
Platform	F25 (F26, xDrive)	CMF-B
Drive	All-wheel drive	Front-wheel drive
Engine family	N20/N55 petrol · N47/B47 · N57 diesel	1.3 TCe mild hybrid · E-Tech Hybrid 145
Transmission	8-speed automatic	6-speed manual · EDC7
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

BMW X4

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

Renault Arkana

Infotainment: freezes and lag
Electrical gremlins (12V battery)
E-Tech hybrid: 12V battery drain

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

Renault Arkana

Striking coupé design
Roomy boot (480–513 L)
Efficient E-Tech hybrid available

Cons

BMW X4

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

Renault Arkana

Sloping roof limits rear headroom
No diesel offered

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.

Renault Arkana

A comfortable long-distance cruiser rather than a dynamic driver's car. Steering is light and accurate enough for daily use, and body control is reasonable, but the ride is firmer than many rivals — especially on larger wheels — and can feel unsettled over sharp bumps. The 1.3 TCe feels responsive once moving, while the E-Tech hybrid prioritises efficiency and can feel less linear under hard acceleration because of its multi-mode transmission. The EDC dual-clutch is smooth at higher speeds but can show low-speed hesitation or judder.