Used BMW X1 and iX1 (Mk3, 2022 to Date): Everything You Need to Know Before You Buy
The third-generation BMW X1, launched in 2022, marked a significant leap forward for one of BMW's most popular compact SUVs. Alongside it came the BMW iX1 — a fully electric sibling that shares the same bold platform but delivers a zero-emission driving experience. Whether you're in the market for a stylish petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid, or fully electric premium SUV, the Mk3 X1 and iX1 family offers a compelling used proposition. In this guide, we break down what makes these cars special, what to look for when buying used, and why the 2022-onwards generation deserves serious consideration.
A Bold New Design Direction
The Mk3 BMW X1 arrived with a dramatically different look compared to its predecessor. Gone is the relatively conservative styling of the Mk2; in its place is a more assertive, upright silhouette that borrows cues from BMW's larger SUVs like the X3 and X5. The front end features BMW's now-signature large kidney grille, flanked by sleek LED headlights that give the car a distinctly premium road presence.
The BMW iX1 shares this body architecture but adds subtle electric-specific design touches, including a closed-off front grille section and blue-accented badging that signals its eco-friendly credentials. From the side, both cars sit on a taller, more commanding platform than before, offering improved ground clearance and a sportier stance overall.
At the rear, the Mk3 X1 and iX1 feature full-width light bars — a design trend that lends the car a distinctly modern appearance and helps it look visually wider. The overall aesthetic is one of purposeful sophistication, and on the used market, these cars still look fresh and contemporary even a few years on from their launch.
Interior Space and Technology
Step inside the Mk3 X1 and you're greeted by one of the cabin's most significant upgrades over the previous generation: BMW's iDrive 8 infotainment system. This curved display setup combines a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster with a 10.7-inch central touchscreen in a single seamless unit that dominates the dashboard. The interface is intuitive, responsive, and supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard — a welcome upgrade that makes even used examples feel thoroughly up to date.
Cabin space is generous for the class. The rear bench has been moved rearward compared to the Mk2, resulting in noticeably improved legroom for adult passengers. The boot is also competitive, offering around 540 litres of cargo space in the standard X1 — though plug-in hybrid models sacrifice a small amount of boot depth due to battery placement. The iX1, despite housing a large battery pack beneath the floor, manages to maintain a flat and practical load area.
Material quality throughout is excellent, with soft-touch surfaces on most contact points and a range of upholstery options that make the interior feel genuinely premium. Higher-specification used examples may feature heated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and an upgraded Harman Kardon sound system — all of which are worth seeking out.
Powertrain Options: Petrol, Diesel, PHEV, and Electric
One of the Mk3 X1's greatest strengths is its powertrain diversity. Buyers can choose from a wide range of options to suit their lifestyle and budget.
- Petrol: The sDrive18i and xDrive23i are the core petrol offerings, with the latter featuring all-wheel drive and a more potent turbocharged engine delivering a spirited driving experience without sacrificing day-to-day usability.
- Diesel: The sDrive18d and xDrive23d cater to higher-mileage drivers with their excellent fuel economy and strong mid-range torque. These are particularly well-suited to motorway driving and remain popular on the used market.
- Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV): The xDrive25e combines a petrol engine with an electric motor and a usable battery, offering genuine electric-only range for shorter commutes while maintaining the flexibility of a combustion engine for longer journeys.
- Fully Electric (iX1): The iX1 xDrive30 is the flagship EV variant, featuring a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup producing around 313bhp. With a real-world range of roughly 250 miles, it's a highly practical choice for urban and suburban drivers looking to go electric without range anxiety.
What to Look for When Buying Used
The Mk3 X1 and iX1 are still relatively young on the used market, which means examples tend to be in good condition. However, there are still a few key areas to inspect carefully before purchase.
- Service history: Ensure the car has a full BMW service history, ideally stamped at an authorised dealer. The Mk3 X1 uses flexible servicing intervals, so check when the next service is due.
- Battery health (iX1 and PHEV): For electric and hybrid variants, ask for a battery health report. While BMW batteries are generally robust, it's worth confirming state of health before committing to a purchase.
- Software updates: The iDrive 8 system receives over-the-air updates, so ensure the car is running the latest firmware for the best performance and feature set.
- Tyre wear: The xDrive all-wheel-drive system can cause uneven tyre wear if the car has been driven hard or serviced irregularly. Check all four tyres carefully.
- Cosmetic condition: Alloy wheel kerbing and paintwork chips are common on any used SUV. These are largely cosmetic but can be useful bargaining points.
Is the Used BMW X1 or iX1 Mk3 Worth Buying?
The third-generation BMW X1 and iX1 represent one of the most well-rounded compact SUV packages available on the used market today. With striking modern styling, a genuinely premium interior, a diverse powertrain lineup, and a driving experience that balances comfort with engagement, these cars punch well above their weight in the competitive premium compact SUV segment.
Depreciation on used examples — particularly the all-electric iX1 — can work strongly in a used buyer's favour, making it possible to access a nearly-new premium SUV at a significantly reduced cost compared to buying new. Whether you prioritise efficiency, performance, or simply want a stylish and practical family car, the Mk3 BMW X1 and iX1 deserve to be at the very top of your used car shortlist.