BMW X4 F26 vs Volkswagen Taigo CS1

BMW X4

F26 · 2014 – 2018

The first-generation X4 (F26), on the F25 X3 platform.

Volkswagen Taigo

CS1 · 2021 – 2026

The first-generation Taigo (CS1), on the MQB A0 platform.

First car

Second car

Pick this one if…

BMW X4

Pick the F26 only with documented N20 chain work or a later build — otherwise the timing-chain risk is real.

Best engine: The xDrive28i (N20, 245 hp) or xDrive30d (N57).

Read the full guide

Pick this one if…

Volkswagen Taigo

Pick the Taigo for a stylish coupé crossover with low running costs and city-friendly dimensions.

Best engine: The 1.0 TSI (110 hp) — the sweet spot.

Read the full guide

Performance

xDrive28i · Petrol vs 1.0 TSI 110 · Petrol

	BMW X4	Volkswagen Taigo
Power	245 hp Winner	110 hp
Torque	350 Nm Winner	200 Nm
0–100 km/h	6,4 s Winner	10,5 s
Top speed	232 km/h Winner	191 km/h
Power-to-weight	136,5 hp/t Winner	93,6 hp/t
CO₂ emissions (WLTP)	179 g/km	123 g/km Winner
Consumption (WLTP)	7,2 L/100km	5,4 L/100km Winner

Dimensions & space

	BMW X4	Volkswagen Taigo
Boot	500 L Winner	440 L
Boot (seats folded)	1.400 L Winner	1.222 L
Wheelbase	2,81 m Winner	2,57 m
Length	4,67 m	4,27 m
Ground clearance	20,0 cm	16,0 cm
Turning circle	11,9 m	10,9 m Winner
Towing capacity (braked)	2.000 kg Winner	1.200 kg

Powertrain & tech

	BMW X4	Volkswagen Taigo
Platform	F25 (F26, xDrive)	MQB A0 (transverse)
Drive	All-wheel drive	Front-wheel drive
Engine family	N20/N55 petrol · N47/B47 · N57 diesel	EA211 1.0 TSI · EA211 Evo 1.5 TSI
Transmission	8-speed automatic	6-speed manual · 7-speed DSG
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

BMW X4

N20 timing chain and tensioner (biggest risk)
Electric water pump and coolant loss
Oil-filter housing and valve-cover leaks

Volkswagen Taigo

Timing belt (wet belt) on some 1.0 TSI
Plastic water pump/thermostat module
Infotainment glitches (MIB3) on early cars

Pros

BMW X4

First X4: more aggressive style than the X3 F25
N55 (35i) is the reliable petrol choice
B47 diesel (20d/25d) much improved over N47

Volkswagen Taigo

Coupé roofline sets it apart from the T-Cross
Thrifty 1.0 TSI with low CO2 (Euro 6d)
Generous standard kit (LED, digital cockpit)

Cons

BMW X4

N20 cold-start chain rattle is a warning sign
Sloping roof limits rear headroom

Volkswagen Taigo

Less rear headroom due to the sloping roof
No diesel or all-wheel-drive options

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.

Volkswagen Taigo

Light, easy and aimed squarely at town driving. The Taigo steers quickly and lightly, rides acceptably, and slips through city streets with little effort. The sloping roofline looks good but trims rear headroom, and it is front-wheel drive only. The 1.0 TSI is the sensible choice — smooth and economical — the 1.5 TSI adds useful pace, and the DSG is smooth. It is a style-led small crossover that prioritises looks and ease of use over outright practicality or driving involvement.