BMW E84 X1 buying guide: the first X1 explained
The E84 X1 was the first BMW X1 and the last with a rear-wheel drive layout. This guide covers the engines, sDrive and xDrive versions, the facelift, common issues and what to check before buying.
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The E84 X1 was the first BMW X1, launched in 2009 as BMW's smallest SUV. Unlike the later X1 models, it was based on the E90 3 Series platform, with the engine mounted longitudinally and rear-wheel drive or xDrive all-wheel drive.
That makes the E84 X1 a compact SUV with the steering and balance of a classic BMW. This buying guide explains the engines, versions, common issues and what to check before you buy one.
A 3 Series on stilts
The E84 X1 shares many parts with the E90 and E91 3 Series. It sits higher, with a raised driving position, but it is not much larger than a 3 Series Touring. The result is a practical car that still feels like a BMW to drive.
It was built in Leipzig, Germany, and was replaced in 2015 by the F48 X1, which moved to a front-wheel drive platform. Our X1 F48 buying guide covers the newer car.
Engines
The E84 X1 was offered with many engines:
- sDrive18i and sDrive20i: four-cylinder petrols, with the N20 turbo engine in later cars.
- xDrive25i and xDrive28i: six-cylinder petrols in early cars and the N20 four-cylinder turbo in later xDrive28i models.
- xDrive35i: the N55 six-cylinder turbo in some markets.
- 16d, 18d, 20d and 23d: four-cylinder diesels, with the twin-turbo xDrive23d at the top.
The 18d and 20d are the most common in Europe and offer good economy.
sDrive and xDrive
sDrive models are rear-wheel drive, which is unusual for a compact SUV. They are lighter, simpler and slightly more economical. xDrive models have all-wheel drive, which helps in snow and on wet roads.
Choose xDrive if you live in a snowy area or tow often. Otherwise, an sDrive car offers lower running costs and fewer parts that can fail.
E84 X1 common issues
Points to check include:
- N47 diesel timing chain: the chain is at the back of the engine and can wear. Our article on BMW timing chain problems explains the warning signs.
- N20 petrol timing chain guides on early turbo petrol cars.
- Electric water pump and thermostat on some petrol engines. Our article on BMW cooling system problems explains this.
- Oil leaks from the valve cover and oil filter housing.
- DPF and EGR on diesel models used mainly for short trips. Our article on the BMW DPF explains this.
- Run-flat tyres, which can give a firm ride. Our article on BMW run-flat tyres explains the options.
The 2012 facelift
The facelift brought new bumpers, a revised interior with better materials, more efficient engines and an eight-speed automatic gearbox on many versions. The eight-speed automatic is smooth and efficient and is often preferred over the earlier six-speed.
The facelift also brought updated iDrive systems and more equipment as standard in many markets. Pre-facelift cars are usually cheaper, and a well-kept early car can still be a sensible buy. Whichever you choose, check that the infotainment, Bluetooth and navigation work correctly, because some older units are expensive to repair.
Practicality
The E84 X1 has a usable boot and rear seats that fold down. Rear legroom is reasonable for a compact car. It is not as spacious as later front-wheel drive X1 models, but it is easy to park and comfortable on long trips.
Running costs
Four-cylinder diesels are very economical, and insurance is reasonable in many markets. Parts are shared with the E90 3 Series, so they are widely available. Budget for timing chain checks on N47 diesels and for suspension wear on older cars. Brakes and tyres are affordable compared with larger SUVs.
Test drive checklist
On the test drive:
- Listen at idle for rattles from the back of the engine on N47 diesels.
- Check for smooth acceleration and no hesitation.
- Test the gearbox for smooth shifts.
- Feel the steering for vagueness or knocks.
- Read the fault memory for engine and DPF codes.
Our complete checklist for buying a used BMW M car covers many checks that apply to any BMW.
E84 X1: points to remember
Look for a car with complete service history and evidence of timing chain checks on diesel models. A facelift car with the eight-speed automatic is a good choice for comfort. Specialist inspection is recommended for any car with a high mileage.
Is the E84 X1 a good buy?
A good E84 X1 is a practical and enjoyable compact BMW. It is ideal for buyers who want a higher driving position without losing the classic BMW driving feel.
Choose a car with a known timing chain history, matching tyres and a clean diagnostic report, and it can be an affordable and dependable choice.
BMW E84 X1 key facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Production | 2009 to 2015 |
| Body | Compact SUV |
| Platform | Based on the E90 3 Series |
| Drive | sDrive rear-wheel drive or xDrive all-wheel drive |
| Petrol | sDrive18i, sDrive20i, xDrive25i, xDrive28i, xDrive35i |
| Diesel | 16d, 18d, 20d, 23d |
| Key checks | N47 timing chain, leaks, DPF, gearbox |
Frequently asked questions
Is the E84 X1 rear-wheel drive?
sDrive models are rear-wheel drive. xDrive models have all-wheel drive.
Which E84 X1 engine is best?
The 20d offers a good balance of performance and economy, while the N20 petrol models are smooth and quick.
Is the E84 X1 reliable?
Well-maintained cars are generally dependable, but N47 diesels need their timing chain checked.
When was the E84 X1 facelifted?
In 2012, with new styling, better materials and the eight-speed automatic.
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