What engine is used in the BMW 1 Series?
4 Answers
The 1.5T engine model of the BMW 1 Series is B38A15C, with a maximum power of 103kW and a maximum torque of 220Nm. The 2.0T engine model is B48A20C, with a maximum power of 141kW and a maximum torque of 280Nm. The engine of the BMW 1 Series is produced by the Liaoning Tiesi Engine Factory and is a domestically manufactured engine. For the daily maintenance of the BMW 1 Series engine, the following methods can be used: Use lubricating oil of appropriate quality grade. For gasoline engines, SD--SF grade gasoline engine oil should be selected based on the additional devices of the intake and exhaust systems and usage conditions; for diesel engines, CB--CD grade diesel engine oil should be selected based on mechanical load, with the selection standard not lower than the manufacturer's requirements. Regularly change the oil and filter. The quality of any grade of lubricating oil will change during use. After a certain mileage, its performance deteriorates, causing various problems for the engine. To avoid faults, change the oil regularly according to usage conditions and keep the oil level moderate. 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 is blocked 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 bring contaminants back to the lubrication area, accelerating engine wear and increasing internal pollution. 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 powder from part wear to form sludge. A small amount remains suspended in the oil, while a large amount precipitates, blocking filters and oil holes, 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 works properly but also extends the overall lifespan of the radiator and engine.
As a frequent test driver of new cars, I find the BMW 1 Series engine lineup quite diverse, mainly depending on the specific model and year. The current mainstream options are turbocharged engines. For example, the entry-level version uses a 1.5-liter three-cylinder turbo, codenamed B38, delivering around 140 horsepower. It runs smoothly and quietly, with fuel consumption as low as 6L/100km. If you opt for higher trims like the 128i or 135i, you'll get an upgraded 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo, pushing horsepower over 300, offering quick acceleration and responsive performance. These engines all feature BMW's TwinPower technology, including direct injection and variable valve timing, which improves fuel efficiency and low-end torque. Daily driving feels hassle-free, with minimal engine noise at startup and a quiet experience even during highway cruising. However, during test drives, I noticed significant power bursts when flooring the accelerator, making highway overtaking effortless. Maintenance-wise, regular oil changes are essential to prevent dust from affecting performance. Overall reliability is good, especially with the new-generation designs optimizing the cooling system. In summary, these engines strike a balance between sportiness and everyday practicality, making them particularly suitable for urban commuting.
My experience with the BMW 1 Series is that it offers a diverse range of engine options, with significant differences depending on the version you purchase. The entry-level models typically feature a 1.5-liter three-cylinder turbocharged engine, which provides adequate power, light acceleration in urban settings, and fuel efficiency, averaging around 6.5L/100km. Higher-tier models like the 120i upgrade to a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine, boosting horsepower to around 180, delivering stronger acceleration and more stable power output during cornering. All these engines are integrated with intelligent management systems that automatically adjust air intake and fuel injection for smooth driving. On long trips, the engines exhibit minimal vibration and excellent noise control, ensuring cabin comfort. In terms of reliability, older models have shown few issues, and the newer engines are even more durable—just stick to regular maintenance, including timely oil and filter changes. Fuel economy is a standout feature, especially when combined with BMW's Eco mode. For those seeking a sportier feel, the high-performance versions offer quicker engine response, though aggressive throttle use will increase fuel consumption. For everyday driving, the engines perform reliably, with reasonable maintenance costs.
As a driving enthusiast, the BMW 1 Series' engine is quite impressive in the sport version. For example, the M135i uses a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine, delivering 306 horsepower, with a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of just 4.8 seconds. The standard version also comes with a 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine, providing sufficient power for daily use. The engine design emphasizes low-end torque, ensuring agile response in urban driving and sustained thrust at high speeds. Combined with BMW's lightweight materials and electronic management system, the performance is both efficient and reliable, with straightforward maintenance. Regular checks can help maintain optimal condition.
