2017 BMW X1 Gets Dual Clutch Transmission in Europe

Entry variants of the BMW X1 will be getting updated versions of its three- and four-cylinder petrol engines as well as switching from the present conventional automatic gearboxes to a new 7-speed dual clutch automatic transmission.

An improved version of the 1.5-litre B38 three-pot with maximum power raised from 136 to 140hp is set to debut in the X1 sDrive18i. The engine is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission as standard which can be optionally upgraded to the aforementioned 7-speed DCT.

According to BMW, this new variant of the X1 sprints from rest to 100km/h in 9.6 seconds whilst consuming fuel at an average of 5.5 – 5.6 litres/100km in the combined cycle (CO₂: 122 – 124 g/km).

This new 140hp B38 petrol engine will also be offered in the 218i Gran Tourer paired exclusively to a 6-speed manual transmission. Performance numbers read 0-100km/h in 9.4 seconds, fuel consumption of 5.5 – 5.6 litres/100km and CO₂ at 123 – 131 g/km.

Also improved is the 2.0-litre X1 sDrive20i, which receives further developments to its B48 four-cylinder engine but continues to produce unchanged outputs of 192hp. Standard transmission here is the 7-speed DCT replacing the outgoing 8-speed torque converter auto.

Despite losing a cog, the new transmission proves a more efficient conduit of power, cutting the X1 sDrive20i’s century sprint time by one-tenth of a second to 7.7 seconds. Fuel consumption slightly down from 5.9 to 5.8 – 5.9 litres/100km, but CO₂ emissions are cut considerably from 136 to 130 – 132 g/km.

Interestingly, the sDrive20i is the only variant of the X1 currently on sale in Malaysia, meaning this transmission update could potentially find its way into our market.