BMW X4 F26 vs Renault Kadjar KAD
BMW X4
F26 · 2014 – 2018
The first-generation X4 (F26), on the F25 X3 platform.
Renault Kadjar
KAD · 2015 – 2022
The Kadjar (KAD), a compact SUV on the CMF-CD platform.
BMW X4
Pick the F26 only with documented N20 chain work or a later build — otherwise the timing-chain risk is real.
Renault Kadjar
Pick the Kadjar for a roomy, comfortable compact SUV with an affordable used supply.
Performance
xDrive28i · Petrol vs 1.3 TCe 140 · Petrol
| BMW X4 | Renault Kadjar | |
|---|---|---|
| Power |
245 hp
Winner
|
140 hp
|
| Torque |
350 Nm
Winner
|
240 Nm
|
| 0–100 km/h |
6,4 s
Winner
|
9,6 s
|
| Top speed |
232 km/h
Winner
|
205 km/h
|
| Power-to-weight |
136,5 hp/t
Winner
|
100,0 hp/t
|
| CO₂ emissions (WLTP) |
179 g/km
|
125 g/km
Winner
|
| Consumption (WLTP) |
7,2 L/100km
|
5,6 L/100km
Winner
|
Dimensions & space
| BMW X4 | Renault Kadjar | |
|---|---|---|
| Boot |
500 L
Winner
|
472 L
|
| Boot (seats folded) |
1.400 L
|
1.478 L
Winner
|
| Wheelbase |
2,81 m
Winner
|
2,65 m
|
| Length |
4,67 m
|
4,45 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 Kadjar | |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | F25 (F26, xDrive) | CMF-CD |
| Drive | All-wheel drive | Front-wheel drive · All-wheel drive |
| Engine family | N20/N55 petrol · N47/B47 · N57 diesel | 1.2 TCe · 1.3 TCe · 1.6 TCe · 1.5 dCi/Blue dCi · 1.6 dCi · 1.7 Blue dCi |
| 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
- 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/X-tronic: juddery 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
- Roomy boot and comfortable ride
- 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 (early years) carries chain risk
- Interior less modern than newer rivals
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 Kadjar
A relaxed long-distance cruiser rather than a dynamic driver's car. Steering is light and accurate enough for daily use, ride quality is generally compliant on smaller wheels and becomes firmer on 19-inch alloys, and body control is adequate. The 1.3 TCe feels responsive once moving, while the diesels are refined and strong for motorway use. The EDC dual-clutch is smooth at higher speeds but can show low-speed hesitation or judder, especially on early cars and in town. AWD versions add a modest amount of traction in slippery conditions.
Belgian taxes & LEZ
