BMW X4 F26 vs Volkswagen Tiguan AD1

BMW X4

F26 · 2014 – 2018

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

Volkswagen Tiguan

AD1 · 2016 – 2024

The second-generation Tiguan (AD1), on the MQB 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 Tiguan

Pick the Tiguan for a roomy, practical family SUV with strong towing and a wide engine range.

Best engine: The 1.5 TSI (150 hp) or 2.0 TDI (150 hp).

Read the full guide

Performance

xDrive28i · Petrol vs 1.5 TSI 150 · Petrol

	BMW X4	Volkswagen Tiguan
Power	245 hp Winner	150 hp
Torque	350 Nm Winner	250 Nm
0–100 km/h	6,4 s Winner	9,2 s
Top speed	232 km/h Winner	200 km/h
Power-to-weight	136,5 hp/t Winner	102,0 hp/t
CO₂ emissions (WLTP)	179 g/km	139 g/km Winner
Consumption (WLTP)	7,2 L/100km	6,1 L/100km Winner

Dimensions & space

	BMW X4	Volkswagen Tiguan
Boot	500 L	615 L Winner
Boot (seats folded)	1.400 L	1.655 L Winner
Wheelbase	2,81 m Winner	2,68 m
Length	4,67 m	4,49 m
Ground clearance	20,0 cm	19,0 cm
Turning circle	11,9 m	11,5 m Winner
Towing capacity (braked)	2.000 kg	2.200 kg Winner

Powertrain & tech

	BMW X4	Volkswagen Tiguan
Platform	F25 (F26, xDrive)	MQB (transverse)
Drive	All-wheel drive	Front-wheel drive · All-wheel drive
Engine family	N20/N55 petrol · N47/B47 · N57 diesel	EA211 1.4/1.5 TSI · EA888 2.0 TSI (R) · EA288 2.0 TDI · eHybrid PHEV
Transmission	8-speed automatic	6-speed manual · 7-speed DSG
Fuel	Petrol	Petrol
Euro standard	Euro 6	Euro 6d-TEMP
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 Tiguan

Water pump/thermostat module on EA211
Haldex 4MOTION service (fluid/clutch)
Software/infotainment glitches pre-facelift

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 Tiguan

Very roomy boot (615–1,655 l) with sliding rear bench
Allspace variant with 7 seats (option)
Towing up to 2,500 kg on 4MOTION diesels

Cons

BMW X4

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

Volkswagen Tiguan

Pre-facelift interior looks more dated
1.4 TSI (early) less smooth than the later 1.5 TSI

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 Tiguan

Comfortable, easy to drive and predictably competent. The Tiguan II rides with good isolation over broken surfaces, stays quiet at a cruise, and steers lightly and accurately without much feedback. Front-drive versions are easy and economical; 4MOTION adds useful traction in poor weather and on loose surfaces. The 1.5 TSI is the sensible pick — smooth and efficient — the 2.0 TDI is the long-distance choice, and the 2.0 TSI is brisk if unremarkable. The DSG is smooth in traffic. Body control is fine for a family SUV, but the Tiguan is set up for comfort and space, not cornering entertainment.