BMW X4 F26 vs Renault Koleos KOL
BMW X4
F26 · 2014 – 2018
The first-generation X4 (F26), on the F25 X3 platform.
Renault Koleos
KOL · 2016 – 2026
The Koleos (KOL), a mid-size 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 Koleos
Pick the Koleos for a roomy, comfortable diesel SUV with optional all-wheel drive.
Performance
xDrive28i · Petrol vs 1.7 Blue dCi 150 · Diesel
| BMW X4 | Renault Koleos | |
|---|---|---|
| Power |
245 hp
Winner
|
150 hp
|
| Torque |
350 Nm
Winner
|
340 Nm
|
| 0–100 km/h |
6,4 s
Winner
|
11,8 s
|
| Top speed |
232 km/h
Winner
|
194 km/h
|
| Power-to-weight |
136,5 hp/t
Winner
|
92,6 hp/t
|
| CO₂ emissions (WLTP) |
179 g/km
|
128 g/km
Winner
|
| Consumption (WLTP) |
7,2 L/100km
|
5,0 L/100km
Winner
|
Dimensions & space
| BMW X4 | Renault Koleos | |
|---|---|---|
| Boot |
500 L
Winner
|
458 L
|
| Boot (seats folded) |
1.400 L
|
1.690 L
Winner
|
| Wheelbase |
2,81 m
Winner
|
2,71 m
|
| Length |
4,67 m
|
4,67 m
|
| Ground clearance |
20,0 cm
|
—
|
| Turning circle |
11,9 m
|
11,4 m
Winner
|
| Towing capacity (braked) |
2.000 kg
|
2.000 kg
|
Powertrain & tech
| BMW X4 | Renault Koleos | |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | 1.6 dCi · 1.7 Blue dCi · 2.0 dCi |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Fuel | Petrol | Diesel |
| Euro standard | Euro 6 | Euro 6d |
| LEZ access | Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation) | ⚠️ Banned from Antwerp & Ghent from January 1, 2029 |
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
- EDC automatic: juddery at low speed
- AdBlue/DPF on short-trip use
- Electronics and infotainment: glitches
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 rear seat
- Comfortable, composed ride
- 2.0 dCi with all-wheel drive available
Cons
- N20 cold-start chain rattle is a warning sign
- Sloping roof limits rear headroom
- Diesel-only
- Heavier than compact SUVs
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 Koleos
A relaxed family cruiser rather than a dynamic driver's car, with good visibility. Comfortable and composed for a mid-size SUV, with a soft ride that prioritises long-distance refinement. Steering is light and accurate enough for the size but lacks strong feedback. Body control is adequate, though some examples feel soft over larger bumps. Diesels provide strong low-end torque for motorway use and overtaking. X-Tronic CVT automatics are smooth once under way but can feel sluggish or noisy under hard acceleration. AWD versions add traction in poor conditions but increase weight.
Belgian taxes & LEZ
