X4 vs NX 250
The X4 and the NX 250 compete for the same spot on your shortlist, with BMW and Lexus each making its case. Neither side dominates. Only a few of the compared specs differ by enough to matter day to day.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance X4 wins
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance3.1
- Engine & Performance0.0
Spec scores (0 to 10) are calculated from manufacturer specs against other models in the same class. See how the formula works. They are not reviews or user ratings.
Key Differences
-
The X4 has 45 hp more power
Few buyers will miss this one. The X4 brings 248 hp to the table; the NX 250 brings 203 hp. More power helps with merging, overtaking and climbing hills, especially with passengers and luggage on board.
-
The X4 has 74 lb-ft more torque
When it comes to torque, the X4 wins comfortably with 258 lb-ft against 184 lb-ft. The X4’s extra torque makes it more relaxed when fully loaded or towing.
Design & Size
Engine & Performance
X4 leads
The engine & performance comparison is one-sided. The X4 leads where it counts. The X4 steps ahead thanks to 45 hp more power. The X4’s extra output gives it more in reserve when you need to get up to speed. So if engine & performance tops your list, lean toward the X4.
Total system output
X4: 248 hp NX 250: 203 hp Power is only part of the story; weight, gearing and torque delivery shape how quick a car feels.
Torque
X4: 258 lb-ft NX 250: 184 lb-ft More torque means stronger pulling from low speeds, which you feel when accelerating from a stop or climbing grades.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
Evenly matched is the fairest summary of the space & practicality section. The space & practicality verdict: no winner, and no reason to worry either way.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
Call the off-road & towing round a draw. Don’t let off-road & towing decide this one; look at the other sections instead.
Safety & Tech
The safety & tech data here comes as names and types, not scores. Check the table to see what each one uses.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | X4 | NX 250 |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas | Gas |
| Engine | 2.0L turbo I4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Total system output | 248 hp (winner) | 203 hp Least powerful in class |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft (winner) | 184 lb-ft Least torque in class |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD (xDrive) | FWD (AWD available) |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | X4 | NX 250 |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | 24 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (city) | 21 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (highway) | 27 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | X4 | NX 250 |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Cargo (behind rear seats) | N/A (not specified) | 22.7 cu ft |
| Cargo (seats folded) | N/A (not specified) | 46.9 cu ft Least room, seats folded |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | X4 | NX 250 |
|---|---|---|
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | X4 | NX 250 |
|---|---|---|
| Basic warranty | 4 yr / 50,000 mi | 4 yr / 50,000 mi |
“N/A” means the manufacturer does not specify the value or we could not confirm it. Figures marked “manufacturer rating” are the maker’s own claims, not our measurements.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the X4 if…
- you merge, overtake or climb hills with a full load (248 hp vs 203 hp)
- you often drive loaded up or with a trailer (258 lb-ft vs 184 lb-ft of torque)
- you’re loyal to BMW and happy with it
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy the X4 or the NX 250?
On the specs compared here, the X4 makes more sense for most buyers; the NX 250 doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
Let me cut through the brand noise around the X4 and the NX 250. If I had to name one reason, it’s that the X4 brings 45 hp more power.
Match the strength to your habits (engine & performance for the X4, the things a spec sheet can’t capture for the NX 250), and you won’t go far wrong.
My pick: the X4.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.