The BMW X1 (F48) 25i xDrive Steptronic, produced from 2015 to 2018, represents a significant entry in BMW’s compact luxury SUV lineup. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the F48 generation, it aimed to balance performance, efficiency, and practicality for buyers seeking a premium crossover experience. This variant utilized a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system. It served as a popular alternative to the base models and the higher-performance X1 variants, appealing to a broader customer base.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | X1 |
| Generation | X1 (F48) |
| Type (Engine) | 25i (231 Hp) xDrive Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.7 – 7.8 l/100 km (30.5 – 30.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.7 – 5.8 l/100 km (41.3 – 40.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.4 – 6.6 l/100 km (36.8 – 35.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 149 – 152 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 235 km/h (146.02 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.7 kg/Hp, 150 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 227.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 231 Hp @ 5000-6000 rpm |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1250-4500 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1250-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B48A20B |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 94.6 mm (3.72 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.8 l (7.19 US qt | 5.98 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1540 kg (3395.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2140 kg (4717.89 lbs.) |
| Max load | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 505 l (17.83 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1550 l (54.74 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 61 l (16.11 US gal | 13.42 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4439 mm (174.76 in.) |
| Width | 1821 mm (71.69 in.) |
| Height | 1598 mm (62.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2670 mm (105.12 in.) |
| Front track | 1561 mm (61.46 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1562 mm (61.5 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 183 mm (7.2 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Steptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 225/55 R17 97W; 225/45 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the X1 25i is BMW’s B48A20B 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is a member of BMW’s modular engine family, known for its efficiency and performance. It features direct fuel injection, a single twin-scroll turbocharger, and variable valve timing (Valvetronic) and variable camshaft timing (Double-VANOS). These technologies work in concert to optimize power delivery and fuel economy across a wide range of driving conditions. The engine produces 231 horsepower at 5000-6000 rpm and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque between 1250 and 4500 rpm. This broad torque curve contributes to responsive acceleration. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle.
The engine is mated to BMW’s eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. This transmission is known for its smooth and quick shifts, contributing to both performance and comfort. The Steptronic transmission offers both automatic and manual shift modes, allowing the driver to take more control when desired. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system intelligently distributes power between the front and rear axles, enhancing traction and stability in various weather conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The X1 25i xDrive Steptronic delivers a balanced driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 6.2 seconds, making it reasonably quick for a compact SUV. The eight-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned, providing smooth gear changes and keeping the engine in its optimal power band. While not as sporty as some of the higher-performance X1 variants, the 25i offers ample power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The xDrive system provides confident handling in all weather conditions, and the steering is precise and well-weighted. Compared to the base X1 models with smaller engines, the 25i offers a noticeable improvement in performance. It also provides a more refined driving experience than the diesel variants, which can sometimes exhibit more engine noise and vibration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The X1 25i xDrive Steptronic typically came well-equipped as standard. Common features included automatic climate control, power-adjustable front seats, a BMW iDrive infotainment system with a 6.5-inch display screen, and a rearview camera. Optional extras included a larger iDrive display, navigation system, premium audio system, panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, and a variety of driver-assistance features such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Interior upholstery was typically a combination of cloth and leatherette, with full leather options available as an upgrade. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally offered packages that bundled together popular options.
Chassis & Braking
The F48 X1 utilizes a front-wheel-drive based platform, with the xDrive system adding all-wheel-drive capability. The suspension consists of independent coil springs in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The X1 25i typically featured ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) were standard safety features.
Market Reception & Comparison
The X1 25i xDrive Steptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and refined powertrain. Critics noted that the 2.0-liter engine provided a good balance of performance and fuel economy. Compared to the X1 20i (with a smaller engine), the 25i offered a significant performance upgrade. Compared to the X1 25d (diesel), the 25i provided a smoother and quieter driving experience, although the diesel offered slightly better fuel economy. Fuel economy figures averaged around 36.8-35.6 US mpg combined, making it a relatively efficient option in its class.
Legacy
The BMW X1 (F48) 25i xDrive Steptronic has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The B48 engine is generally considered to be a robust and well-engineered unit, and the eight-speed Steptronic transmission is also known for its reliability. On the used car market, these models hold their value reasonably well, particularly those with low mileage and a full service history. Common maintenance items include oil changes, brake pad replacements, and tire rotations. Overall, the X1 25i remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a premium compact SUV with a good blend of performance, comfort, and reliability.
