BMW
X2
BMW
X4
BMW X2 vs BMW X4: 2024 Comparison
The short answer
The BMW X2 offers fuel economy, while the BMW X4 excels at power instead. Choose the BMW X2 if you prioritize fuel economy in daily driving, or the BMW X4 if power matters more for your needs. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
X2
Overall
Sentiment is mixed and varies significantly by model year and powertrain. The first-generation X2 (pre-2024) is generally viewed as a competent, fun-to-drive compact crossover, particularly in the M35i performance variant, which is praised for its handling and power. It is often described as a good entry-level BMW with decent fuel economy and practicality for its size.
Best version to buy
X2 M35i. This performance variant is specifically highlighted for being "fun to drive," handling well when pushed, and offering a good balance of power and fuel economy.
Known issues
- ⚠High maintenance and repair part costs: parts are significantly more expensive than for mainstream Japanese brands, and dealer labor rates are high. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Premature rear brake wear: rear brake pads noted to wear out quickly, with one report of a mechanic performing pad-only changes to extend rotor life on an X2. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Outdated technology in first-generation models: lacks features like blind spot monitoring, 360-degree camera, and remote start; uses older iDrive 6 infotainment. Frequency: recurrent.
X4
Overall
Mixed sentiment with a clear divide based on model variant and owner priorities. The X4 M40i and full M models receive strong praise for their powerful and reliable B58/S58 engines, engaging sporty handling, and overall driving enjoyment, with some owners describing them as the best cars they've driven. The coupe-SUV styling is polarizing, appreciated by some for its sporty, attention-grabbing look but criticized by others as an awkward compromise that sacrifices utility.
Best version to buy
X4 M40i: This model is frequently highlighted as offering the best balance, delivering the powerful and well-regarded B58 inline-six engine for strong performance without the extreme cost and ride harshness of the full M models. It provides a significant power upgrade over the base xDrive30i, making it the recommended choice for owners seeking a fun daily driver.
Known issues
- ⚠High maintenance and repair costs out of warranty: very frequent. Poor ride quality with specific run-flat tires (e.g., Continental): recurrent. Reduced rear visibility and cargo space compared to traditional SUVs: recurrent.
The verdict
The BMW X2 is the better choice for most buyers.
It has better fuel economy on its best-equipped version than the BMW X4, based on the data above. If power matters more to you than running costs, the BMW X4 is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the BMW X2 or the BMW X4?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the BMW X2 and the BMW X4. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the BMW X2 or the BMW X4?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the BMW X2 or the BMW X4?
The BMW X2 is more fuel-efficient on paper: 9 L/100km combined versus 10.2 L/100km for the BMW X4, based on the best-equipped catalogued version of each.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the BMW X2 or the BMW X4?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the BMW X2 than the BMW X4. See the known issues comparison above.