BMW X1 (F48): Advanced Bavarian Crossover with Front-Wheel Drive

Introduction: Revolution in the BMW World

Just ten years ago, the idea of a BMW crossover with front-wheel drive seemed incredible. However, in the middle of the last decade, the second-generation X1 appeared, and the world of the Bavarian brand changed forever. This caused a real storm among fans of the brand: some were indignant, accusing BMW of "technological betrayal," while others suggested waiting for the first results of operation. And time showed that the latter were right.

The second-generation BMW X1 (F48) was a real breakthrough for the Bavarian manufacturer. Built on the innovative UKL platform (Untere Klasse or "lower class"), this compact crossover changed the idea of what BMW cars could be.

UKL Platform: A New Approach to Architecture

The main feature of the UKL platform is the transverse engine layout. According to representatives of the company, this configuration allows the creation of compact cars with more spacious interiors, providing maximum comfort not only in the first row but also in the second row, as well as with an enlarged luggage compartment.

BMW announced that from now on, any model less than 4.5 meters long and below the 3 Series would use this architecture. The X1 became the first crossover to adopt the new platform (after the BMW Active Tourer 2 Series compact MPV).

The car debuted at the Frankfurt Motor Show in the fall of 2015, and by the end of 2016, its production was mastered at the factory in Kaliningrad. The F48 is dramatically different from its predecessor, both externally and internally, as changes affected the engine lineup, transmissions, technological features, and optional equipment.

Exterior: Design Evolution

The exterior design of the second-generation BMW X1 reflects the brand's new philosophy, combining sportiness and elegance. Compared to the first generation, the F48 has a more proportional and harmonious silhouette characteristic of crossovers.

The front part is adorned with BMW's signature "kidney grilles," which became larger and more expressive after the 2019 facelift. The headlights have a shape characteristic of modern BMW models with "angel eyes" - LED rings of daytime running lights.

The profile of the car is distinguished by a dynamic roofline and the Hofmeister kink characteristic of BMW in the design of the side windows. The high window line and increased ground clearance emphasize the model's belonging to the crossover segment.

The rear is designed in typical BMW style with horizontal L-shaped lights, which received more modern LED graphics after the facelift. The dual exhaust pipes integrated into the rear bumper give the car a sporty appearance.

The dimensions of the BMW X1 F48 are: length 4439 mm, width 1821 mm, height 1598 mm, wheelbase 2670 mm, ground clearance 183 mm.

Practicality at a New Level

Thanks to the new architecture, engineers managed to increase the volume of the luggage compartment by 85-200 liters compared to the previous model. This is a significant advantage for those who value practicality. In addition, the car became noticeably more spacious inside, offering more room for passengers in both the front and rear rows.

At the same time, the X1 retained its positioning in the compact class and loyalty to two drive options: on one axle in the sDrive modification and on both axles in the xDrive modification.

The trunk volume is 505 liters with the rear seats up and up to 1550 liters with the rear seats folded. For loading convenience, there is an electric tailgate, height-adjustable floor, 12V socket, hooks for bags, and nets for securing small items.

Engine Lineup: Modular Approach

B38: Compact and Efficient

The base engine for the X1 was the 1.5-liter three-cylinder B38 series. Until 2017, it was mated with a classic six-speed automatic transmission, and from 2017, with a seven-speed dual-clutch robot. All cars equipped with this engine had exclusively front-wheel drive.

The B38 is equipped with balance shafts, hydraulic lifters, two camshafts with Vanos phase shifters, a Valvetronic system that changes the height of intake valve lifts, a chain-driven timing system, and direct fuel injection. Power is 136-140 hp (depending on the year of production), and torque is 220-230 Nm.

Early versions of this engine could have a small crankshaft play, which led to vibrations, but over time, the Bavarians solved this problem. In general, the B38 requires quality fuel and regular maintenance.

B48: Power and Versatility

The second gasoline engine is the two-liter B48 series. For this engine, the manufacturer provided an eight-speed hydromechanical automatic and two power variants: 192 and 231 hp. The lower version of the B48 was installed on both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive cars, while the higher version was only on all-wheel drive models.

The B48 is also equipped with Vanos phase regulators, Valvetronic system, hydraulic lifters, and a chain-driven timing system. The working volume is 1998 cc, torque 280-350 Nm depending on the version.

This engine has a high operating temperature, which requires attention to the condition of the oil scraper caps at high mileages. It is also important to monitor the quality of fuel and regularly service the injectors.

Diesel Engine B47

The crossover was also offered with a two-liter diesel engine B47. Based on it, the widest range of powertrains with different types of drive was formed. Power varied from 150 to 231 hp, and torque from 330 to 450 Nm.

The B47 requires special attention to fuel quality and regular maintenance. With proper operation and timely maintenance, this engine demonstrates good reliability and efficiency.

Hybrid Version xDrive25e

After the 2019 facelift, a hybrid modification, the xDrive25e, appeared in the BMW X1 lineup. This version combines a 1.5 B38 gasoline engine with 125 hp and an electric motor with 95 hp. The combined power is 220 hp, and the torque is 385 Nm. The battery capacity is 9.7 kWh, which provides an electric range of up to 57 km.

A feature of the hybrid version is the all-wheel drive scheme, in which the front wheels are driven by a gasoline engine, and the rear wheels by an electric motor. This allows for high efficiency and excellent dynamic characteristics.

Transmission: Diversity and Reliability

The second-generation X1 was offered with various transmission options. The pre-facelift BMW X1 was equipped with a German six-speed manual ZF GS6 45BZ gearbox. It is equipped with a lubrication system with a filter element and an oil pump. To maintain reliability, it is recommended to change the oil every 40-50 thousand kilometers.

The eight-speed Aisin GA8F22AW automatic is highly reliable with calm driving and timely maintenance. Under such conditions, the gearbox can cover more than 300 thousand kilometers before a major overhaul.

The six-speed Aisin TF72SC (GA6F21WA) automatic is also a reliable unit that hardly requires repair with careful handling. For it, it is important to maintain regular oil service and check the condition of the heat exchanger at high mileages.

The seven-speed Getrag 7DCI300 dual-clutch robot could show involuntary jolts when switching in the first years of production, but a software update solved this problem. The only regular maintenance remains the replacement of the clutch, which is recommended to be performed every 100-120 thousand kilometers.

All-Wheel Drive System

The BMW X1's all-wheel drive system is built around a multi-disc clutch according to a crossover scheme. Unlike the related MINI Countryman, which uses a GKN electromagnetic clutch to connect the rear wheels, the Bavarian got a fifth-generation Haldex unit.

Features of the xDrive system in the BMW X1 include an electronically controlled Haldex 5 multi-disc clutch, system response time less than 100 ms, the ability to transfer up to 100% of torque to the rear axle, and integration with the DSC dynamic stabilization system.

This unit is highly reliable, but to maximize service life, it is recommended to change the oil in the Haldex clutch every 50-60 thousand kilometers.

Suspension and Steering

The BMW X1's suspension deserves praise for its reliability. Shock absorbers serve an average of at least 100 thousand kilometers, arm bushings withstand at least 80 thousand kilometers, and the steering rack with electric power steering begins to require attention only after 150 thousand kilometers. The only element with a relatively short service life is the stabilizer struts, which may require replacement after 40 thousand kilometers.

The front McPherson suspension with aluminum alloy transverse arms and a high-strength steel subframe provides excellent handling. The rear suspension is a multi-link independent with five arms per wheel and an aluminum alloy subframe on all-wheel drive versions or a steel subframe on front-wheel drive versions.

The steering is rack and pinion with electric power assist, the number of turns from lock to lock is 2.6, and the turning diameter is 11.4 m. The braking system includes ventilated disc brakes at the front and disc brakes at the rear, an ABS system with electronic brake force distribution, a DSC dynamic stability control system, and a CBC cornering brake control system.

2019 Facelift: Model Evolution

In 2019, the BMW X1 underwent an update that brought new bumpers, larger kidney grilles and exhaust pipes, different optics filling, mirror illumination projecting the model name, new interior trim materials, an updated multimedia system, and a non-fixed joystick instead of the previous transmission selector.

A hybrid version also appeared in the lineup, and the range of modifications became more compact: a two-liter B47 diesel with 150 hp, a two-liter B48 gasoline engine with 190-231 hp, and a 1.5-liter three-cylinder B38 engine with 140 hp.

In addition to external changes, the facelifted cars received improved sound insulation, new wheel rim options, new body colors, the option to order M Sport sport suspension, and an improved wireless charging system for smartphones.

Interior and Comfort

The interior of the second-generation BMW X1 is characterized by high-quality materials and assembly. Thanks to the new platform, the interior became noticeably more spacious compared to its predecessor. The rear seat passengers especially benefited, gaining more legroom and headroom.

The dashboard is designed in BMW's signature style with a slight tilt towards the driver. The central display of the infotainment system is integrated into the upper part of the dashboard, providing convenient access to it without distracting the driver from the road.

The seats provide good lateral support and comfort even on long journeys. Depending on the configuration, they can be upholstered in fabric, artificial or natural leather.

The BMW X1's trunk has a regular shape and good capacity. The rear seats fold in a 40:20:40 ratio, providing flexibility when transporting long items.

Additional comfort is provided by dual-zone climate control, a panoramic roof, keyless access system, electric adjustment of front seats, heating of front seats and steering wheel, as well as ambient lighting with color selection.

Technologies and Equipment

The second-generation BMW X1 offers a wide range of technologies and driver assistance systems. The iDrive infotainment system with a screen diagonal of 6.5 to 8.8 inches supports smartphone connection via Bluetooth, and in later versions - Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

After the 2019 facelift, a fully digital instrument panel became available in top trim levels, which can display various information depending on the selected driving mode.

The X1 can be equipped with an automatic emergency braking system, adaptive cruise control, lane control system, parking assistance system, and a rear-view camera or 360-degree view system.

LED headlights and taillights provide better visibility and are one of the elements of the modern design of the car. Depending on the configuration, the X1 can be equipped with a standard audio system or a premium Harman Kardon audio system with improved sound.

Additional technological features include a head-up display, road sign recognition system, blind spot monitoring system, automatic parking function, lane departure warning system, and driver fatigue monitoring system.

Dynamic Characteristics

The second-generation BMW X1, despite the transition to a front-wheel drive platform, retained the dynamic character inherent in the brand's cars. Versions with the two-liter B48 gasoline engine demonstrate particularly impressive dynamics: the xDrive25i (231 hp) accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.5 seconds and reaches a maximum speed of 235 km/h, the xDrive20i (192 hp) - in 7.4 seconds to 225 km/h, and the sDrive20i (192 hp) - in 7.7 seconds to 225 km/h.

Even base versions with the three-cylinder B38 engine provide sufficient dynamics: the sDrive18i (140 hp) accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.7 seconds and reaches a maximum speed of 205 km/h.

Diesel versions combine good dynamics with impressive efficiency: the xDrive25d (231 hp) accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.6 seconds and reaches a maximum speed of 235 km/h, the xDrive20d (190 hp) - in 7.6 seconds to 219 km/h, and the sDrive18d (150 hp) - in 9.2 seconds to 205 km/h.

The second-generation X1 offers several driving modes: Eco Pro for maximum efficiency, Comfort for everyday use, and Sport for more dynamic driving.

Practical Recommendations When Choosing a BMW X1 F48

When choosing a second-generation BMW X1, it's worth paying attention to the car's service history, especially the regularity of oil changes in the engine and transmission. A mileage of up to 100 thousand kilometers is considered optimal, when most of the car's systems do not yet require serious intervention.

Gasoline versions generally demonstrate higher reliability and less demanding fuel quality requirements than diesel ones. Front-wheel drive versions (sDrive) usually have lower fuel consumption and lower operating costs, while all-wheel drive modifications (xDrive) offer better off-road capability and stability on challenging road surfaces.

When choosing, it's also important to pay attention to the configuration, condition of electronics and suspension, as well as the general condition of the body and interior.

Conclusion

The second-generation BMW X1 (F48) became a truly revolutionary product for the Bavarian brand. The transition to a front-wheel drive architecture allowed for the creation of a more spacious, practical, and economical car, while maintaining the brand's driver-oriented character for which BMW cars are valued.

Thanks to a wide range of engines and transmissions, each buyer can choose a version that best meets their needs: from economical options for everyday use to powerful modifications capable of delivering real driving pleasure.

When choosing a BMW X1 F48, it is recommended to pay special attention to gasoline versions, which generally demonstrate higher reliability and less demanding maintenance. However, with proper operation and timely maintenance, any version of the BMW X1 will please its owner for many years.

The F48 successfully combines the advantages of a compact crossover (practicality, spaciousness, high seating position) with the traditional strengths of BMW cars (quality materials, excellent dynamics, superior handling). This makes it an excellent choice for those looking for an "everyday" car but not willing to sacrifice driving pleasure.

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