BMW X4 F26 vs Volvo XC60 MK2

BMW X4

F26 · 2014 – 2018

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

Volvo XC60

MK2 · 2017 – 2026

The second-generation XC60 (MK2), on the SPA 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 MK2 for a premium, safe and refined SUV with an efficient B5 mild-hybrid or quick T8.

Best engine: The B5 mild-hybrid (petrol) — or the T8 plug-in hybrid.

Read the full guide

Performance

xDrive28i · Petrol vs B5 2.0 250 · Petrol

	BMW X4	Volvo XC60
Power	245 hp	250 hp Winner
Torque	350 Nm	350 Nm
0–100 km/h	6,4 s Winner	6,9 s
Top speed	232 km/h Winner	180 km/h
Power-to-weight	136,5 hp/t	137,4 hp/t Winner
CO₂ emissions (WLTP)	179 g/km	154 g/km Winner
Consumption (WLTP)	7,2 L/100km	6,8 L/100km Winner

Dimensions & space

	BMW X4	Volvo XC60
Boot	500 L	505 L Winner
Boot (seats folded)	1.400 L	1.543 L Winner
Wheelbase	2,81 m	2,87 m Winner
Length	4,67 m	4,71 m
Ground clearance	20,0 cm	21,6 cm
Turning circle	11,9 m	11,4 m Winner
Towing capacity (braked)	2.000 kg	2.400 kg Winner

Powertrain & tech

	BMW X4	Volvo XC60
Platform	F25 (F26, xDrive)	SPA (shared with XC90/V90/S90)
Drive	All-wheel drive	Front-wheel drive · All-wheel drive
Engine family	N20/N55 petrol · N47/B47 · N57 diesel	2.0 D4/D5 diesel · 2.0 B4/B5/B6 mild-hybrid · 2.0 T8 plug-in hybrid
Transmission	8-speed automatic	8-speed Geartronic automatic
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

Volvo XC60

Infotainment software and Sensus glitches
12V battery drain (early cars)
T8: ERAD and battery need monitoring

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

Premium interior and hushed comfort
Strong safety equipment
Efficient mild-hybrids and quick T8

Cons

BMW X4

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

Volvo XC60

Infotainment can glitch
12V battery can drain
Not focused on sharp dynamics

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, with light, accurate steering that suits motorway and urban driving. The ride is comfortable on standard wheels but firmer on larger alloys, and body roll is present yet managed. Mild-hybrid petrols deliver usable performance with strong low-end torque; the T8 plug-in hybrid is notably quicker. It prioritises comfort and safety over sharp dynamics, with good visibility.