BMW X4 F26 vs Renault Captur MK2
BMW X4
F26 · 2014 – 2018
The first-generation X4 (F26), on the F25 X3 platform.
Renault Captur
MK2 · 2019 – 2026
The second Captur (MK2), on the CMF-B platform with E-Tech hybrids.
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 MK2 for the roomier, modern Captur with E-Tech hybrids and the flexible rear bench.
Performance
xDrive28i · Petrol vs 1.0 TCe 100 · Petrol
| BMW X4 | Renault Captur | |
|---|---|---|
| Power |
245 hp
Winner
|
100 hp
|
| Torque |
350 Nm
Winner
|
160 Nm
|
| 0–100 km/h |
6,4 s
Winner
|
13,0 s
|
| Top speed |
232 km/h
Winner
|
178 km/h
|
| Power-to-weight |
136,5 hp/t
Winner
|
87,7 hp/t
|
| CO₂ emissions (WLTP) |
179 g/km
|
115 g/km
Winner
|
| Consumption (WLTP) |
7,2 L/100km
|
5,0 L/100km
Winner
|
Dimensions & space
| BMW X4 | Renault Captur | |
|---|---|---|
| Boot |
500 L
Winner
|
422 L
|
| Boot (seats folded) |
1.400 L
|
1.500 L
Winner
|
| Wheelbase |
2,81 m
Winner
|
2,64 m
|
| Length |
4,67 m
|
4,24 m
|
| Ground clearance |
20,0 cm
|
—
|
| Turning circle |
11,9 m
|
10,9 m
Winner
|
| Towing capacity (braked) |
2.000 kg
Winner
|
1.100 kg
|
Powertrain & tech
| BMW X4 | Renault Captur | |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | F25 (F26, xDrive) | CMF-B |
| Drive | All-wheel drive | Front-wheel drive |
| Engine family | N20/N55 petrol · N47/B47 · N57 diesel | 1.0 TCe · 1.3 TCe · 1.5 Blue dCi · E-Tech 140/145 · E-Tech PHEV 158 |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 6-speed manual |
| 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
- E-Tech hybrid: 12V battery drain
- Electrical gremlins and infotainment freezes
- 1.5 Blue dCi: DPF and AdBlue on short trips
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
- Bigger boot than the MK1
- Modern E-Tech hybrids available
- Keeps the clever sliding rear bench
Cons
- N20 cold-start chain rattle is a warning sign
- Sloping roof limits rear headroom
- PHEV pricier and heavier
- Infotainment can be slow
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 firmer than the first-generation Captur, reducing roll in corners while staying acceptable on normal roads, though the ride can feel firm on larger wheels. The 1.0 TCe and 1.3 TCe feel responsive for daily use; the E-Tech hybrid adds strong low-speed electric assistance and smooth transitions once warm. Manual gearboxes are straightforward, and the EDC dual-clutch is smooth at speed but can hesitate at low speeds. Overall a competent, easy compact crossover rather than a driver's car.
Belgian taxes & LEZ
