We highlight the pros and cons of the BMW X1 in diesel and petrol guise, considering fuel consumption, performance and known issues.
The second-generation BMW X1 continued the successful recipe used in the first generation, albeit with a few considerable changes under the skin. While the first generation (E84) was based on the BMW E91 3-series chassis, the second generation (F48) X1 employs the UKL modular platform. It shares this with the X2, 2 Series Active Tourer and several Mini offerings.
The N-Series engine range was swapped out for the more modern and more reliable B-Series, making more power and lowering emissions in doing so.
Local X1s are available with a 1.5- or 2.0-litre petrol engine or a 2.0-litre diesel. We’ll be looking at the variances in the diesel and petrol models, both 2.0-litres in displacement.
BMW X1 sDrive20d auto
The current generation BMW X1 sDrive20d is powered by a 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine, coded the B47. This engine is new to the X1 in this generation, replacing the troublesome N47 that preceded it.
It produces 140 kW at 4000 rpm with torque coming in at a healthy 400 Nm between 1750 and 2500 rpm.
BMW quotes consumption figures to be 5.3l/100km in urban environments with highway figures coming down to 4.1l/100km (sDrive model). This yields a combined average of 4.6l/100km. CO2 emissions are listed as 120g/km.
There are very few reported issues with the B47 engine in the X1 sDrive20d and xDrive20d although some owners report that the engine can be somewhat clattery on cold startup, with the noise subsiding once it is up to temperature.
Pros:
– Low fuel consumption figures
– Impressive torque output
– Reliability
Cons:
– Costs more than the petrol equivalent
– Shorter service intervals
– Noisier than counterparts
BMW X1 sDrive20i auto
The current BMW X1 sDrive20i is powered by a 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbo-petrol engine, coded the B48. The B48 in the current (F48 model code) BMW X1 replaces the N20 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder engine that was found in the previous (E84 model code) BMW X1. Many of the initial issues with the N20 engine were resolved with this update to the B48, creating a smoother, more powerful and more reliable engine in the process.
The B48 develops 141 kW from 5000 to 6000 rpm with torque listed as 280 Nm in the 1350 to 4600 rpm rev range. Fuel consumption is touted as being 7.3l/100km on the urban cycle and 5.6l/100km on the highway. This yields a combined fuel consumption figure of 6.2l/100km with CO2 emissions at 139g/km.
The timing chain issues that plagued the N20 engine seem to have been resolved and owners are reporting that there are no known issues with the current setup. Direct injection (DI) engines are inherently flawed in their design and carbon build-up in the intake can cause problems if not monitored. This, however, is not a concern unique to the B48 engine and all DI engines are at risk.
Pros:
– Greater spread of power throughout the rev range.
– Quieter running.
– Less frequent service intervals.
Cons:
– Lacks the sheer torque of the diesel.
– Carbon build-up a long-term concern.
– Higher fuel consumption.
Verdict
Both variants are equally adept with no major shortcomings in the engine and drivetrain department. Choosing between the two will hinge largely on the intended use with those travelling longer distances on a more frequent basis gravitating towards the diesel. Urban and town commuters may prefer the quieter running of the petrol version.
Keyword: Which BMW X1 is better: diesel or petrol?