BMW X4 F26 vs Volvo XC60 MK1

BMW X4

F26 · 2014 – 2018

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

Volvo XC60

MK1 · 2008 – 2017

The first-generation XC60 (MK1), on the P3 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…

Volvo XC60

Pick the MK1 for an affordable, safe and comfortable SUV with a strong D4/D5 diesel.

Best engine: The D4/D5 five-cylinder diesel, preferably post-2013 facelift.

Read the full guide

Performance

xDrive28i · Petrol vs D4 2.0 190 · Diesel

	BMW X4	Volvo XC60
Power	245 hp Winner	190 hp
Torque	350 Nm	400 Nm Winner
0–100 km/h	6,4 s Winner	8,4 s
Top speed	232 km/h Winner	205 km/h
Power-to-weight	136,5 hp/t Winner	105,6 hp/t
CO₂ emissions (WLTP)	179 g/km	129 g/km Winner
Consumption (WLTP)	7,2 L/100km	4,9 L/100km Winner

Dimensions & space

	BMW X4	Volvo XC60
Boot	500 L Winner	495 L
Boot (seats folded)	1.400 L	1.455 L Winner
Wheelbase	2,81 m Winner	2,77 m
Length	4,67 m	4,64 m
Ground clearance	20,0 cm	23,0 cm
Turning circle	11,9 m	11,7 m Winner
Towing capacity (braked)	2.000 kg	2.000 kg

Powertrain & tech

	BMW X4	Volvo XC60
Platform	F25 (F26, xDrive)	P3 (shared with V70/S80)
Drive	All-wheel drive	Front-wheel drive · All-wheel drive
Engine family	N20/N55 petrol · N47/B47 · N57 diesel	2.0/2.4 five-cylinder diesel (D3/D4/D5) · 2.0 T5 · 3.0 T6 petrol
Transmission	8-speed automatic	8-speed Geartronic automatic
Fuel	Petrol	Diesel
Euro standard	Euro 6	Euro 6
LEZ access	Unrestricted access (compliant under current legislation)	⚠️ Banned from Antwerp & Ghent from January 1, 2026

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

Volvo XC60

Neglected Haldex/AWD fluid services
Diesels: DPF/EGR with urban use
Timing belt (diesel) on interval

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

Volvo XC60

Comfortable and safe (early City Safety)
Strong five-cylinder diesels
Affordable used

Cons

BMW X4

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

Volvo XC60

Dated infotainment
Haldex/AWD needs fluid services
Early T6 can use oil

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.

Volvo XC60

Composed and secure for a mid-size SUV of its era, with light steering that suits motorway and urban driving. The ride is comfortable on standard wheels, and body roll is present yet managed. Diesels deliver strong low-end torque for motorway use. It prioritises comfort and safety over sharp dynamics, with good visibility.