BMW X4 F26 vs Renault Captur MK1
BMW X4
F26 · 2014 – 2018
The first-generation X4 (F26), on the F25 X3 platform.
Renault Captur
MK1 · 2013 – 2019
The first Captur (MK1), on a modified B platform.
BMW X4
Pick the F26 only with documented N20 chain work or a later build — otherwise the timing-chain risk is real.
Renault Captur
Pick the MK1 for an affordable, flexible early Captur with a clever sliding rear bench.
Performance
xDrive28i · Petrol vs 0.9 TCe 90 · Petrol
| BMW X4 | Renault Captur | |
|---|---|---|
| Power |
245 hp
Winner
|
90 hp
|
| Torque |
350 Nm
Winner
|
135 Nm
|
| 0–100 km/h |
6,4 s
Winner
|
12,7 s
|
| Top speed |
232 km/h
Winner
|
171 km/h
|
| Power-to-weight |
136,5 hp/t
Winner
|
83,3 hp/t
|
| CO₂ emissions (WLTP) |
179 g/km
|
105 g/km
Winner
|
| Consumption (WLTP) |
7,2 L/100km
|
4,7 L/100km
Winner
|
Dimensions & space
| BMW X4 | Renault Captur | |
|---|---|---|
| Boot |
500 L
Winner
|
377 L
|
| Boot (seats folded) |
1.400 L
Winner
|
1.235 L
|
| Wheelbase |
2,81 m
Winner
|
2,61 m
|
| Length |
4,67 m
|
4,12 m
|
| Ground clearance |
20,0 cm
|
—
|
| Turning circle |
11,9 m
|
10,4 m
Winner
|
| Towing capacity (braked) |
2.000 kg
Winner
|
900 kg
|
Powertrain & tech
| BMW X4 | Renault Captur | |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | F25 (F26, xDrive) | B (modified) |
| Drive | All-wheel drive | Front-wheel drive |
| Engine family | N20/N55 petrol · N47/B47 · N57 diesel | 0.9 TCe · 1.2 TCe · 1.3 TCe · 1.5 dCi |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Fuel | Petrol | Petrol |
| Euro standard | Euro 6 | Euro 6 |
| 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
- 1.2 TCe: timing chain and oil consumption
- EDC: jerky shifts at low speed
- Electrical gremlins and R-Link freezes
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
- Flexible sliding rear bench
- Affordable and plentiful used
- Efficient 1.5 dCi diesel
Cons
- N20 cold-start chain rattle is a warning sign
- Sloping roof limits rear headroom
- 1.2 TCe carries chain risk
- Boot and rear legroom smaller than MK2
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 Captur
Light and easy to place in town with a reasonably high driving position, helped by light steering that is not especially communicative. Body control is acceptable but the ride is firmer than a conventional supermini, especially on larger wheels. The 0.9 TCe and 1.2 TCe feel responsive for daily use when healthy, while the 1.5 dCi is stronger on the motorway. Manual gearboxes are straightforward; the EDC dual-clutch is smooth at speed but often shows low-speed hesitation or judder. Overall a competent compact crossover of its era rather than a driver's car.
Belgian taxes & LEZ
