BMW X4 F26 vs Renault Austral AUS
BMW X4
F26 · 2014 – 2018
The first-generation X4 (F26), on the F25 X3 platform.
Renault Austral
AUS · 2022 – 2026
The Austral (AUS), a modern compact SUV on CMF-CD3.
BMW X4
Pick the F26 only with documented N20 chain work or a later build — otherwise the timing-chain risk is real.
Renault Austral
Pick the Austral for a modern compact SUV with an efficient E-Tech hybrid.
Performance
xDrive28i · Petrol vs 1.2 E-Tech 200 · Hybrid
| BMW X4 | Renault Austral | |
|---|---|---|
| Power |
245 hp
Winner
|
200 hp
|
| Torque |
350 Nm
|
—
|
| 0–100 km/h |
6,4 s
Winner
|
8,4 s
|
| Top speed |
232 km/h
Winner
|
175 km/h
|
| Power-to-weight |
136,5 hp/t
Winner
|
128,2 hp/t
|
| CO₂ emissions (WLTP) |
179 g/km
|
108 g/km
Winner
|
| Consumption (WLTP) |
7,2 L/100km
|
4,7 L/100km
Winner
|
Dimensions & space
| BMW X4 | Renault Austral | |
|---|---|---|
| Boot |
500 L
Winner
|
430 L
|
| Boot (seats folded) |
1.400 L
|
1.525 L
Winner
|
| Wheelbase |
2,81 m
Winner
|
2,67 m
|
| Length |
4,67 m
|
4,51 m
|
| Ground clearance |
20,0 cm
|
—
|
| Turning circle |
11,9 m
|
10,9 m
Winner
|
| Towing capacity (braked) |
2.000 kg
Winner
|
1.500 kg
|
Powertrain & tech
| BMW X4 | Renault Austral | |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | F25 (F26, xDrive) | CMF-CD3 |
| Drive | All-wheel drive | Front-wheel drive |
| Engine family | N20/N55 petrol · N47/B47 · N57 diesel | 1.2 TCe · 1.3 TCe · E-Tech Full Hybrid 200 |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | E-Tech automatic |
| Fuel | Petrol | Hybrid |
| 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
- Infotainment software needs updates
- Electrical gremlins on early cars
- E-Tech hybrid: 12V battery drain
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
- Modern interior with a big screen
- Efficient E-Tech Full Hybrid 200
- Roomy, modular boot (430–527 L)
Cons
- N20 cold-start chain rattle is a warning sign
- Sloping roof limits rear headroom
- No diesel offered
- Infotainment takes getting used to
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 Austral
A refined long-distance cruiser rather than a dynamic driver's car, helped by optional rear-axle steering (4Control) that tightens the turning circle in town. Steering is light but accurate enough for daily use, with Sport mode adding more weight. The ride is firmer than many rivals, especially on larger wheels, and can feel unsettled over sharp bumps, though body control is reasonable. The E-Tech full hybrid feels responsive in mixed driving and can cover short distances on electric power alone, while the 1.3 mild hybrid is adequate once moving. Low-speed transmission behaviour can show hesitation or judder on early hybrid examples.
Belgian taxes & LEZ
