
The 1.5T engine in the BMW 1 Series is a 3-cylinder engine, model B38A15C, with a maximum power of 103kW and a maximum torque of 220Nm. The 2.0T engine is a 4-cylinder engine, model B48A20C, with a maximum power of 141kW and a maximum torque of 280Nm. The BMW 1 Series engines are produced by the Liaoning Tiesi Engine Factory and are domestically manufactured. For daily maintenance of the BMW 1 Series engine, the following methods can be used: Use lubricating oil of the appropriate quality grade. For gasoline engines, select SD--SF grade gasoline engine oil based on the additional devices in the intake and exhaust systems and usage conditions; for diesel engines, choose CB--CD grade diesel engine oil based on mechanical load, with the selection standard not lower than the manufacturer's specified requirements. Regularly change the oil and oil filter. The quality of any grade of lubricating oil will change during use. After a certain mileage, performance deteriorates, leading to various engine issues. To avoid malfunctions, change the oil regularly according to usage conditions and maintain an appropriate oil level. When oil passes through the fine pores of the filter, solid particles and viscous substances in the oil accumulate in the filter. If the filter becomes clogged and oil cannot pass through the filter element, the filter element may burst or the safety valve may open, allowing oil to bypass through the bypass valve and carry contaminants back to the lubrication areas, accelerating engine wear and increasing internal contamination. Regularly clean the crankcase. During engine operation, high-pressure unburned gases, acids, moisture, sulfur, and nitrogen oxides from the combustion chamber enter the crankcase through the gap between the piston rings and cylinder walls, mixing with metal particles from component wear to form sludge. In small amounts, it remains suspended in the oil; in large amounts, it precipitates, clogging filters and oil passages, making engine lubrication difficult and causing wear. Regularly use a radiator cleaner to clean the radiator. Removing rust and scale not only ensures the engine operates normally but also extends the overall lifespan of the radiator and engine.

As a car enthusiast, I'm quite familiar with the BMW X1's engine lineup. Yes, it does feature a three-cylinder engine in certain models, such as the entry-level sDrive18i, which uses BMW's B38 engine. I've researched this vehicle thoroughly. The advantages of the three-cylinder are prominent: excellent fuel efficiency makes city commuting worry-free, superior emission control meets environmental standards, and maintenance costs are relatively economical. However, the drawbacks are also noticeable: power output is weaker than the four-cylinder versions, and there might be slight vibrations during acceleration. Other models like the sDrive20i and xDrive25i have been upgraded to four-cylinder or six-cylinder engines, offering significantly improved performance. I recommend test driving and comparing before purchase. The three-cylinder version suits budget-conscious or efficiency-focused drivers, while higher trims deliver more aggressive performance. Overall, the BMW X1 offers flexible engine choices to match different needs. While there are no major flaws, it never hurts to gather more information.

I drive a BMW X1 myself, the 2021 sDrive18i model, which comes with a 3-cylinder engine. The daily driving experience is quite good, with city fuel consumption as low as around 6 liters per 100 kilometers, making it economical and hassle-free. When climbing hills or overtaking on highways, the power feels slightly insufficient with minor vibrations, but it's adequate. BMW has tuned this engine to be smooth, quiet, and easy to maintain. If you're considering the X1, remember that the 3-cylinder is mostly found in the base models, while the higher trims come with 4-cylinder engines. I recommend checking more reviews and choosing based on your budget—prioritize safety and practicality without overthinking the engine type. What matters most is that the car itself is enjoyable to drive.

After working in a repair shop for several years, I've seen many BMW X1 three-cylinder cars. The B38 engine is easy to identify via VIN, convenient to maintain, and not costly. Carbon buildup issues are rare and simple to handle. I recommend owners perform regular maintenance and check fluids to ensure engine health.


