Throughout its three generations, the BMW X1 has developed from a rear-wheel-drive, 3 Sequence–primarily based crossover into a contemporary, tech-filled compact SUV. However with that evolution comes a variety of possession experiences. On this information, we’ll break down every technology of the BMW X1, though it’s nonetheless fairly younger within the patchwork of BMW’s historical past. We’ll spotlight the commonest points to observe for and rank them by general reliability.
First Technology BMW X1 (E84)
The BMW X1’s debut technology was a brief one within the US: it was solely on sale between late 2012 and 2016. It’s additionally fairly a bit completely different from the opposite X1 generations in that it’s rear-wheel drive. The truth is, being primarily based on the up to date 3 Sequence of the time makes it arguably probably the most dynamically partaking X1 you may get. Powertrain choices consisted of an N20 turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a a lot hotter N55 turbocharged inline-six. Each are typically dependable mills.
With the four-cylinder fashions (28i) you’ll wish to look ahead to a timing chain recall that affected most of these first technology vehicles. Assorted oil leaks — significantly one which develops across the turbocharger — are additionally considerably frequent. N55-powered vehicles will finally want a cost pipe and can doubtless be on their second gas pump by now. Oil filter housing gaskets and cooling programs also needs to be handled with additional consideration on both powertrain. xDrive fashions are additionally extra difficult, since they’ve a switch case, which appears to be an everyday failure level for higher-mileage examples.
Outdoors the driveline, the first-generation BMW X1 doesn’t have a ton of issues. This period of BMW autos is holding up effectively when it comes to inside high quality. The most important points you’ll discover right here usually are not particular to the X1 and can plague most 10-15 12 months previous autos. Suppose worn out buttons and armrests. The primary-gen X1 presents a stable stability of old-school BMW steering and dealing with and practicality. Whereas it isn’t probably the most dependable, it’s very doubtless probably the most enjoyable to drive.
Second Technology BMW X1 (F48)
The second technology BMW X1 is certainly the best to buy. BMW solely supplied the US market a four-cylinder mannequin, which relied on a B46 inline-four and both front- or all-wheel drive. Fortunately, the B46 is essentially the identical because the B48 engine with some slight variations in emissions controls. Control coolant and oil ranges and also you’ll doubtless be positive with the B46. Changing the cost pipe is an honest concept in case you’re the preventative upkeep sort, however they’re not even that massive of a deal on these engines.
The F48 X1 does have a recognized subject to look out for on the check drive: apparently, this stuff burn by way of engine mounts. A failing one knocks round whereas accelerating. Moreover, creaking from the rear and vibrations by way of the chassis when making sharp, full or near full lock is perhaps indicators that the automobile wants new rear diff fluid, and the vent line needs to be changed as effectively. Notice this may solely have an effect on xDrive fashions. Except for that, although, the F48 X1 is a reasonably protected purchase. No inside points or electrical points are extensively sufficient reported to make them one thing to be instantly cautious of. Nevertheless, there was a B pillar recall that impacts airbag deployment. You’ll positively wish to guarantee has been taken care of.
Third Technology BMW X1 (U11)
The most recent technology of the BMW X1 simply got here out in 2023, so there isn’t an entire lot to say right here but. The automobile comes with a B48 inline-four irrespective of which one you purchase; though there are important mechanical enhancements within the motor for the X1 M35i xDrive mannequin to make 312 horsepower. A bigger turbocharger, bolstered crankshaft, bigger foremost bearings, new pistons, and a distinct compression ratio make it arguably extra dependable. Nevertheless, the faster fashions can even doubtless have been pushed extra aggressively, so ensure you examine intently earlier than taking one house. Aside from that, the standard B48 stoutness continues right here. Be aware of oil, coolant, and cost pipe. Curiously, the U11 additionally had a B pillar recall for a really comparable airbag deployment subject. So, be sure that’s taken care of.
Which BMW X1 Technology is the Most Dependable?
Total, we predict the F48 BMW X1 is the most secure guess out of the bunch. However there’s a little bit of an asterisk there. The primary-gen is a much better driving expertise. And the U11 might definitely show to be a extra dependable automobile over time — significantly with that hotter B48 engine. As standard, bear in mind these breakdowns are basic tips and the automobile you’re might have all, none, or completely different points than those we’ve outlined right here. Get a pre-purchase inspection in case you aren’t positive what you’re in search of — it’ll most likely prevent 1000’s.
