Is the BMW X1 Rear-Wheel Drive or Front-Wheel Drive?

[McEliza]

The BMW X1 features a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout. Here are more details about the BMW X1: 1. On September 5, 2019, the new BMW X1 made its debut at the 2019 Chengdu Auto Show. It was officially launched on October 11, with a total of 4 models available. 2. The new BMW X1 measures 4565mm in length, 1821mm in width, and 1620mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2780mm. It is equipped with either a 1.5T or 2.0T engine, balancing powerful performance with fuel efficiency. The 1.5T model delivers a maximum power of 103 kW and a peak torque of 220 Nm, while the 2.0T model offers a maximum power of 141 kW and a peak torque of 280 Nm.

[JudahLynn]

The BMW X1 is quite an interesting car. I've asked technicians at the dealership, and it's not a pure rear-wheel-drive vehicle. The first-generation X1 offered a choice between rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, but starting from the second generation, it switched to the UKL front-wheel-drive platform and is now based on a front-wheel-drive system. This means the new X1 is primarily front-wheel drive, but you can still opt for the xDrive all-wheel-drive system. This change was made because BMW wanted to reduce costs and make the car more practical. When driving, the front-wheel-drive setup provides more stability during turns, but it lacks some of the rear-wheel-drive's push-back sensation. I've compared it with other BMW models—for example, the 3 Series is rear-wheel drive and more sporty, while the X1 is the most front-wheel-drive-oriented SUV in the family, with more everyday handling. If you're considering buying a new X1, it's important to know that its drivetrain has changed, which affects the driving feel. I recommend test-driving it to experience the different modes.

[DiCatherine]

As a BMW X1 owner who has used it for several years, I can share my experience: My car is the front-wheel-drive version, and it drives more smoothly than expected. Unlike the older rear-wheel-drive BMWs, which were prone to skidding, especially when driving on highways in the rain, the front-wheel-drive version offers much better grip. The third-generation X1 is designed this way, with light steering, making it great for city driving. Of course, you can also opt for the four-wheel-drive version, which handles snowy roads in winter just fine. BMW probably made this change to make daily driving more worry-free. My friend complains about rear-wheel-drive cars fishtailing when accelerating, but the X1 doesn’t have this issue. However, it lacks a bit of sportiness, so if you’re looking for an exciting drive, the X1 might not be the best choice. Overall, the X1 is a well-balanced option, ideal for family trips.

[StKira]

When it comes to the BMW X1's drivetrain, it has undergone significant changes. The first-generation X1 was based on a rear-wheel-drive platform, offering either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, preserving BMW's sporty DNA. By the second generation, it switched to the front-wheel-drive UKL platform, and now all new X1 models follow this approach—primarily front-wheel drive. This reflects BMW's strategy: using front-wheel drive for entry-level models to reduce costs, with all-wheel drive still available as an option. If you buy a new X1, it defaults to front-wheel drive unless you opt for the upgrade. This makes the handling more practical.