Throughout its three generations, the BMW X1 has advanced 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, despite the fact that 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 totally different from the opposite X1 generations in that it’s rear-wheel drive. The truth is, being primarily based on the modern 3 Sequence of the time makes it arguably probably the most dynamically partaking X1 you will get. Powertrain choices consisted of an N20 turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a a lot hotter N55 turbocharged inline-six. Each are usually dependable mills.
With the four-cylinder fashions (28i) you’ll need to look ahead to a timing chain recall that affected most of these first technology vehicles. Assorted oil leaks — notably one which develops across the turbocharger — are additionally considerably widespread. N55-powered vehicles will finally want a cost pipe and can doubtless be on their second gasoline pump by now. Oil filter housing gaskets and cooling techniques 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 a daily failure level for higher-mileage examples.
Exterior the driveline, the first-generation BMW X1 doesn’t have a ton of issues. This period of BMW automobiles is holding up nicely by way of inside high quality. The largest points you’ll discover right here usually are not particular to the X1 and can plague most 10-15 12 months outdated automobiles. Suppose worn out buttons and armrests. The primary-gen X1 presents a stable steadiness 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 unquestionably the simplest to buy. BMW solely provided 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 basically the identical because the B48 engine with some slight variations in emissions controls. Keep watch over coolant and oil ranges and also you’ll doubtless be superb with the B46. Changing the cost pipe is a good concept when you’re the preventative upkeep sort, however they’re not even that large of a deal on these engines.
The F48 X1 does have a recognized situation to look out for on the check drive: apparently, these items burn by means of engine mounts. A failing one knocks round whereas accelerating. Moreover, creaking from the rear and vibrations by means of the chassis when making sharp, full or near full lock is perhaps indicators that the automotive wants new rear diff fluid, and the vent line must be changed as nicely. Word this may solely have an effect on xDrive fashions. Other than that, although, the F48 X1 is a reasonably secure 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 need 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 a complete lot to say right here but. The automotive comes with a B48 inline-four regardless 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 important bearings, new pistons, and a special compression ratio make it arguably extra dependable. Nevertheless, the faster fashions will even doubtless have been pushed extra aggressively, so be sure you examine carefully earlier than taking one dwelling. Apart from that, the standard B48 stoutness continues right here. Be conscious of oil, coolant, and cost pipe. Curiously, the U11 additionally had a B pillar recall for a really related airbag deployment situation. So, guarantee that’s taken care of.
Which BMW X1 Technology is the Most Dependable?
Total, we expect 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 automotive over time — notably with that hotter B48 engine. As typical, bear in mind these breakdowns are normal pointers and the automotive you’re could have all, none, or totally different points than those we’ve outlined right here. Get a pre-purchase inspection when you aren’t certain what you’re on the lookout for — it’ll in all probability prevent 1000’s.
