Is the BMW X1 a three-cylinder engine?
3 Answers
The BMW X1 is equipped with a three-cylinder engine. Taking the 2021 BMW X1 as an example, it is a compact SUV with the following dimensions: length 4565mm, width 1821mm, height 1620mm, wheelbase 2780mm, minimum ground clearance 135mm, and a curb weight of 1580kg. The 2021 BMW X1 features a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link independent rear suspension. It is powered by a 1.5T turbocharged engine with a maximum horsepower of 140PS, maximum torque of 220Nm, and maximum power of 103kW, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
As a car enthusiast, I think the BMW X1 does have some models equipped with three-cylinder engines, especially the entry-level sDrive18i version, which uses a 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine. BMW's push for three-cylinder engines in entry-level models is mainly for fuel economy, achieving around 6L per 100km, making it suitable for daily commuting. However, higher-end models like the xDrive25i still use four-cylinder engines, offering stronger and smoother power. The downside of three-cylinder engines is slightly rougher sound; BMW has optimized it well, but it still falls a bit short compared to four-cylinders. If your X1 is a newer post-2020 version, the entry-level models in Europe or the Chinese market often come with three-cylinders. When buying, check the configuration sheet to avoid any surprises. Overall, a three-cylinder engine isn't a problem—it's just a matter of budget and preference.
I remember test driving the BMW X1 last year and encountered the three-cylinder version. The salesperson mentioned that the sDrive18i focuses on fuel efficiency. The engine runs smoothly, but you can feel slight vibrations when stepping on the accelerator. BMW's three-cylinder design is quite successful, with good noise control, sufficient for daily driving, and lower maintenance costs. Of course, the higher-end 25i uses a four-cylinder engine, offering more aggressive acceleration. From a price perspective, the savings from the entry-level model can be used for fuel, making it more cost-effective. If you frequently start and stop in the city, the three-cylinder engine might actually be more convenient. Before buying, it's best to check the official website or have the dealer demonstrate it—don't believe random rumors online. In short, three-cylinder engines are nothing unusual in BMW's lineup, and their quality is reliable.
