BMW X4 F26 vs Volvo XC90 MK2

BMW X4

F26 · 2014 – 2018

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

Volvo XC90

MK2 · 2015 – 2026

The second-generation XC90 (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 XC90

Pick the MK2 for a premium, safe seven-seat 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 XC90
Power	245 hp	250 hp Winner
Torque	350 Nm	350 Nm
0–100 km/h	6,4 s Winner	7,7 s
Top speed	232 km/h Winner	180 km/h
Power-to-weight	136,5 hp/t Winner	119,0 hp/t
CO₂ emissions (WLTP)	179 g/km	168 g/km Winner
Consumption (WLTP)	7,2 L/100km Winner	7,3 L/100km

Dimensions & space

	BMW X4	Volvo XC90
Boot	500 L	720 L Winner
Boot (seats folded)	1.400 L	2.005 L Winner
Wheelbase	2,81 m	2,98 m Winner
Length	4,67 m	4,95 m
Ground clearance	20,0 cm	22,3 cm
Turning circle	11,9 m	11,8 m Winner
Towing capacity (braked)	2.000 kg	2.700 kg Winner

Powertrain & tech

	BMW X4	Volvo XC90
Platform	F25 (F26, xDrive)	SPA
Drive	All-wheel drive	Front-wheel drive · All-wheel drive
Engine family	N20/N55 petrol · N47/B47 · N57 diesel	2.0 D5 diesel · 2.0 T5/T6 petrol · 2.0 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 XC90

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 XC90

Premium interior and hushed comfort
Seven-seat practicality and safety
Efficient mild-hybrids and quick T8

Cons

BMW X4

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

Volvo XC90

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 XC90

Composed and secure for a large SUV, with light, accurate steering that suits motorway and urban driving. The ride is comfortable on standard wheels, especially with optional air suspension, and firmer on larger alloys; 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.