BMW X1 F48 buying guide: engines, gearboxes and what to check
The BMW X1 F48 is a practical compact SUV. This buying guide covers the petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid engines, front or all-wheel drive, gearboxes, practicality and what to check.
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The BMW X1 F48 is the second generation of BMW's compact SUV, built from 2015 to 2022. It moved to a front-wheel drive based platform, which made it more spacious and practical than the first X1, with a higher driving position and a large boot.
It is a popular family car with economical engines and modern equipment. In this buying guide we explain the engines, drive options, gearboxes, practicality and the points to check before buying a BMW X1 F48.
Why the X1 F48 is popular
The X1 F48 appeals to buyers who want:
- A compact SUV that is easy to park in town.
- A practical interior with a large boot and sliding rear seats on many versions.
- Economical engines.
- Optional xDrive all-wheel drive for winter traction.
- BMW quality and technology at a reasonable price.
It is a sensible choice for families and drivers who want a higher seating position.
The second-generation X1 also feels more grown-up than the first, with better materials, more space and more modern technology. Its compact length makes it easy to park, while the raised seating gives good visibility in traffic. Many owners who move from a hatchback appreciate the extra space without the size of a larger SUV.
Engines
The X1 F48 was offered with a wide range of engines:
- Petrol: the three-cylinder B38 in models such as the sDrive18i, and the four-cylinder B48 in sDrive20i and xDrive25i. Our article on the BMW B48 engine explains the four-cylinder.
- Diesel: the four-cylinder B47 in models such as the sDrive18d, xDrive20d and xDrive25d. Our article on the BMW B47 diesel explains it.
- Plug-in hybrid: the xDrive25e, combining a petrol engine with an electric motor. Our article on BMW plug-in hybrids explains how it works.
The best choice depends on your driving. Our article on BMW diesel or petrol explains how to decide.
Drive and gearboxes
The X1 F48 is available with front-wheel drive (sDrive) or all-wheel drive (xDrive). sDrive models are lighter and more economical, while xDrive provides better traction in snow and on wet roads.
Gearboxes include manual versions in some markets, automatic gearboxes and dual-clutch gearboxes with some petrol engines. Check for smooth shifts and ask about fluid changes on high-mileage cars. Our article on BMW transmission fluid explains why.
Practicality
The X1 F48 offers:
- A large boot with a flat floor.
- Sliding and reclining rear seats on many cars.
- Good rear legroom for a compact SUV.
- An optional electric tailgate.
It is one of the most practical cars in the BMW range for its size.
The rear seats can often be folded in several sections, so you can carry long items while still seating passengers. Under the boot floor, many cars have extra storage space. For families with prams or sports equipment, these details make a real difference.
BMW X1 F48: points to check
The X1 F48 is generally reliable, but check:
- Service history and oil changes.
- DPF and AdBlue health on diesel models used for short trips. Our articles on the BMW DPF and BMW AdBlue explain these systems.
- Coolant and oil leaks on older or high-mileage cars.
- The hybrid system and charging on the xDrive25e.
- Tyres and brakes, and wheels for kerb damage.
- Electrical functions, including the tailgate and infotainment.
- Panoramic roof drains on cars with a large sunroof. Our article on BMW water leaks explains them.
Equipment worth looking for
Popular options include:
- Navigation and larger screens.
- LED headlights.
- Comfort Access. Our article on BMW Comfort Access explains it.
- Head-Up Display.
- Driving assistance systems.
- M Sport package.
A well-equipped car is often more pleasant to live with and easier to sell later. Higher trim levels also tend to have better seats and sound systems.
Test drive checklist
On the test drive:
- Check for smooth gear changes and no warning messages.
- Listen for noises from the suspension and drivetrain.
- Test the infotainment and driver assistance functions.
- Check that the air conditioning blows cold. Our article on BMW air conditioning not cold explains common faults.
- Read the fault memory.
Our complete checklist for buying a used BMW covers other checks.
Is the X1 F48 a good buy?
The X1 F48 is a practical and economical family SUV with BMW quality. A well-maintained example with a petrol engine suits mostly short trips, while a diesel suits higher mileages. The plug-in hybrid suits drivers who can charge regularly.
Choose a car with complete service history, and arrange an inspection if you are unsure. Our article on BMW extended warranty explains how extra cover can give peace of mind.
BMW X1 F48 key facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Production | 2015 to 2022 |
| Body | Compact SUV |
| Platform | Front-wheel drive based, xDrive optional |
| Petrol engines | B38 three-cylinder, B48 four-cylinder |
| Diesel engines | B47 four-cylinder |
| Plug-in hybrid | xDrive25e |
| Key checks | Service history, DPF and AdBlue, leaks, electrics |
Frequently asked questions
Is the BMW X1 F48 reliable?
Generally yes, with correct maintenance. Diesel models need regular longer drives to keep the DPF healthy.
Is the X1 F48 front-wheel drive?
sDrive models are front-wheel drive. xDrive models have all-wheel drive.
Which X1 F48 engine is best?
It depends on your driving. Petrol suits shorter trips, diesel suits high mileages, and the plug-in hybrid suits drivers who can charge.
Is the X1 F48 good for families?
Yes. It offers a practical boot, flexible rear seats and good space for its size.
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