Throughout its three generations, the BMW X1 has developed from a rear-wheel-drive, 3 Collection–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 era of the BMW X1, regardless that it’s nonetheless fairly younger within the patchwork of BMW’s historical past. We’ll spotlight the commonest points to look at for and rank them by total reliability.
First Technology BMW X1 (E84)
The BMW X1’s debut era 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. Actually, being primarily based on the up to date 3 Collection of the time makes it arguably essentially 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 usually dependable mills.
With the four-cylinder fashions (28i) you’ll need to look ahead to a timing chain recall that affected every one of these first era vehicles. Assorted oil leaks — significantly 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 gas pump by now. Oil filter housing gaskets and cooling programs also needs to be handled with further consideration on both powertrain. xDrive fashions are additionally extra sophisticated, 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 by way of inside high quality. The largest points you’ll discover right here will not be particular to the X1 and can plague most 10-15 12 months outdated autos. Suppose worn out buttons and armrests. The primary-gen X1 provides a strong stability of old-school BMW steering and dealing with and practicality. Whereas it isn’t essentially the most dependable, it’s very doubtless essentially the most enjoyable to drive.
Second Technology BMW X1 (F48)
The second era BMW X1 is unquestionably 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 basically the identical because the B48 engine with some slight variations in emissions controls. Control coolant and oil ranges and also you’ll doubtless be high-quality with the B46. Changing the cost pipe is a good concept for those who’re the preventative upkeep sort, however they’re not even that large of a deal on these engines.
The F48 X1 does have a identified situation to look out for on the check drive: apparently, these items burn by engine mounts. A failing one knocks round whereas accelerating. Moreover, creaking from the rear and vibrations by the chassis when making sharp, full or near full lock could be indicators that the automotive wants new rear diff fluid, and the vent line needs to be changed as effectively. Notice it will solely have an effect on xDrive fashions. Apart from that, although, the F48 X1 is a reasonably secure purchase. No inside points or electrical points are broadly sufficient reported to make them one thing to be instantly cautious of. Nonetheless, 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 era of the BMW X1 simply got here out in 2023, so there isn’t an entire lot to say right here but. The automotive 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 fundamental bearings, new pistons, and a unique compression ratio make it arguably extra dependable. Nonetheless, 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, 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 wager 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 may actually show to be a extra dependable automotive over time — significantly with that hotter B48 engine. As common, keep in mind these breakdowns are basic tips and the automotive you’re could have all, none, or completely different points than those we’ve outlined right here. Get a pre-purchase inspection for those who aren’t positive what you’re in search of — it’ll most likely prevent hundreds.
