English
Lietuvių
Latviešu
Eesti
Polski
Русский
Українська
Deutsch
Nederlands
Čeština
Slovenčina
Svenska
Norsk
Dansk
Suomi
BMW X1: E84, F48 and U11 generations, engines and trims
BMW X1 — the compact BMW SUV, popular in Lithuania for its convenient size, high seating position and xDrive all-wheel drive. We look at the E84, F48 and U11 generations, engines, trims and what to check when buying a used X1.
X1 in brief
The first X1 generation (E84) was produced from 2009 to 2015 and was based on the 3 Series Touring. The second generation (F48, 2015–2022) switched to transversely mounted engines, while the third (U11) has been in production since 2022 and features the electric iX1.
The sDrive designation means rear-wheel drive, while xDrive indicates all-wheel drive. In the E84 generation, sDrive versions are rear-wheel drive, while from the F48 generation onwards, they are front-wheel drive.
The X1 is ideal for those who need a practical but not overly large car. The interiors and boot space of the F48 and U11 generations are significantly more spacious than the E84.
E84, F48 and U11 — what sets them apart
E84 (2009–2015) — the most affordable X1, valued for its direct driving feel, though its interior is more cramped and many examples have high mileage. The model was refreshed in 2012.
F48 (2015–2022) — the most popular generation in the used market. It's taller and roomier than the E84, and models refreshed in 2019 got larger wheels, new headlights and often a larger infotainment screen.
U11 (from 2022) stands out with a completely new interior featuring a large curved screen (BMW Curved Display), almost no physical buttons, and more driver assistance systems. It's the priciest but also the most modern choice.
Engines and gearboxes
The E84 is most commonly found with 2.0-litre diesel engines (sDrive18d, xDrive20d, xDrive23d) and petrol engines sDrive18i, xDrive20i and xDrive28i.
The F48 is most popular with the sDrive18d (150 hp) and xDrive20d (190 hp) diesels, xDrive25d (231 hp), and petrol engines sDrive18i (1.5 l, three-cylinder, around 136–140 hp), 20i and 25i. Later, the plug-in hybrid xDrive25e was introduced. Gearboxes include a 6-speed manual, 7-speed dual-clutch, or 8-speed automatic (Steptronic).
The U11 is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox across the board. Petrol and diesel engines are offered (most commonly the sDrive18d), along with plug-in hybrids xDrive25e and xDrive30e, the sporty M35i, and the electric iX1 as a separate version.
What to check when buying a used X1
The 2.0-litre diesels (N47) in the E84 were notorious for timing chain issues — the chain is at the rear of the engine, making replacement expensive. When starting a cold engine, there should be no rattling or whining from the rear of the engine.
For diesel cars, check the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and EGR system, and ask if all manufacturer recall work has been done. Test the automatic or dual-clutch gearbox by moving and driving in a figure of eight — shifts should be smooth.
For xDrive models, ask about the gearbox oil change, and for plug-in hybrids, the battery condition and charging history. Check the mileage against service records, and the body for repainted parts.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the most commonly found trims in Europe.
Advantage
F48The base F48 trim comes with practical daily-use equipment.
- Light-alloy wheels
- Often — dual-zone climate control
- Often — rear parking sensors
Sport Line
E84, F48A sportier look with black exterior details.
- Glossy black exterior details
- Sport seats
- Often — 18-inch wheels
xLine
E84, F48, U11A line that emphasizes the all-wheel-drive style.
- Silver protective plates and trim
- Special wheels
- Often — leather seats
M Sport
E84, F48, U11One of the most popular lines — sportiest looks.
- M buffers and bumpers
- Sport seats and M steering wheel
- Often — stiffer M suspension and larger wheels
X1 M35i
U11Sportiest X1 version.
- 2.0-litre petrol engine, around 300–317 hp
- xDrive all-wheel drive
- M Performance exterior and interior details
F48 generation trim comparison
| Advantage | Sport Line | xLine | M Sport | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For the rational buyer | For a sportier look | For comfort and all-round style | Sporty looks |
| Wheels (usually) | 17 inch | 18 inch | 18 inch | 18–19 inch |
| Styling | Standard | Black details | Silver details | M bumpers |
| Interior | Standard | Sport seats | More luxurious trim | Sport seats, M steering wheel |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | € | €€ | €€ | €€€ |
For most buyers, the best choice is the F48 post-2019 facelift with the sDrive18d or xDrive20d engine. xLine is ideal for comfort, while M Sport caters to those who love a sporty look.
Pros
- Compact yet practical
- A wide range with xDrive transmission
- Precise handling and a high-quality interior
- The F48 and U11 offer spacious interiors and boot space
Cons
- The E84 generation has issues with the N47 diesel chain
- More expensive maintenance and parts than mass-market brands
- The U11 interior has few physical buttons
Frequently asked questions
Which X1 generation is best to buy used?
For many buyers, the F48 is the best post-2019 facelift: it's spacious, well-refined, and cheaper than the U11. If modern features and budget allow, go for the U11.
Is the X1 with sDrive suitable for winter?
Yes. The F48 and U11 sDrive versions are front-wheel drive, and with good winter tyres, they're sufficient for Lithuanian winters. The E84 sDrive is rear-wheel drive, so it requires more caution on slippery roads.
Is the three-cylinder sDrive18i engine worth considering?
Not necessarily. The 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine is used in many BMW and MINI models, and its power is sufficient for daily driving. It's important to change the oil on time and ensure the engine runs smoothly when idling.
Is it worth buying the plug-in hybrid X1 xDrive25e?
It is, if you can regularly charge the car at home or at work — then short trips can be made on electric power alone. If you don't have a place to charge, it's often more sensible to opt for a diesel or petrol X1.
Updated 2026-10-09 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
