2024 BMW X1: All‑Wheel Drive Availability Explained

The 2024 BMW X1 is the brand’s entry‑level crossover, and many buyers wonder whether it comes equipped with all‑wheel drive out of the box. In short, the model line offers both front‑wheel‑drive (BMW calls it sDrive) and all‑wheel‑drive (xDrive) configurations, depending on trim level, engine choice, and regional market. If you’re trying to decide which drivetrain suits your needs, let’s break down exactly how BMW structures the X1’s options and what to look for when you’re shopping.

Understanding BMW’s drivetrain terminology

BMW uses two distinct badges to differentiate its drivetrains. sDrive indicates a front‑wheel‑drive setup, which is standard on the base X1 in most markets. xDrive is the automaker’s proprietary all‑wheel‑drive system, featuring a torque‑split device that can send power to the rear wheels when traction is needed. The system operates seamlessly, often without the driver even noticing the shift in power distribution.

Because the X1 is built on a front‑wheel‑drive platform, the xDrive variant adds a relatively lightweight rear axle and electronic controls rather than a traditional longitudinal drivetrain. This design keeps the vehicle’s fuel economy respectable while still offering the confidence of AWD in slippery conditions.

2024 X1 trim lineup and drivetrain options

In the United States, the 2024 X1 is offered in three main trims:

• sDrive28i – the base model, equipped with a 2.0‑liter turbo‑four and front‑wheel drive.
• xDrive28i – adds the xDrive system to the same powertrain, giving you all‑wheel drive as standard.
• xDrive30e – a plug‑in hybrid that pairs the turbo‑four with an electric motor and comes only with xDrive.

European and Asian markets often follow a similar pattern, though the exact naming conventions may vary (for example, “M Sport” packages can be layered on top of either drivetrain). The key takeaway: if you specifically want AWD, you’ll need to select an “xDrive” badge or a hybrid variant.

How to spot an AWD X1 in the showroom or on the road

There are a few quick visual cues that can confirm whether a particular X1 is equipped with xDrive:

• The rear badge typically reads “xDrive” alongside the model designation.
• Wheel and tire sizes may be slightly larger on AWD models, though this is not a hard rule.
• Inside the cabin, the instrument cluster often displays an “xDrive” indicator when the system is actively distributing torque.
• VIN decoding tools can reveal the drivetrain code; the ninth character is usually “A” for xDrive and “B” for sDrive.

If you’re browsing online listings, look for phrases like “xDrive,” “all‑wheel drive,” or “AWD” in the description. When in doubt, ask the dealer for the vehicle’s build sheet.

Why choose xDrive on the X1?

All‑wheel drive offers several practical benefits, especially for drivers who encounter variable weather or road conditions:

• Improved traction: The system can automatically send up to 50 % of torque to the rear wheels when the front wheels lose grip.
• Confidence in light snow or rain: Even a modest amount of rear‑wheel torque can reduce wheel slip on slippery surfaces.
• Resale appeal: In regions where winter driving is common, AWD models often retain value better than their front‑wheel‑drive counterparts.

On the flip side, xDrive adds a small weight penalty—typically around 50–60 kg—and can slightly reduce fuel efficiency compared with sDrive. For city‑centric drivers who rarely encounter adverse weather, the base sDrive may be the more economical choice.

Performance and fuel‑economy differences

The power output remains the same across drivetrain choices: the 2.0‑liter turbo engine produces roughly 228 horsepower and 258 lb‑ft of torque. However, the xDrive version usually posts EPA fuel‑economy figures that are a few tenths of a gallon per mile lower than the sDrive version. For example, the sDrive28i might achieve around 25 mpg city / 33 mpg highway, while the xDrive28i tends to land near 24 mpg city / 31 mpg highway. The plug‑in hybrid xDrive30e, when operating in electric‑only mode, can achieve an EPA‑rated electric range of roughly 30 miles.

Can you retrofit xDrive onto an sDrive X1?

Because the X1’s platform is fundamentally front‑wheel‑drive, adding xDrive after purchase isn’t a simple bolt‑on. The conversion would require a new rear subframe, a different drivetrain control unit, and modifications to the suspension and exhaust. In practice, most owners who later desire AWD opt to trade in for an xDrive‑equipped model rather than undertaking an extensive retrofit.

Bottom line: Does the 2024 BMW X1 have all‑wheel drive?

Yes—BMW offers an xDrive version of the 2024 X1, and the all‑wheel‑drive system is standard on the higher‑trim and hybrid models. If you specifically need AWD, look for the “xDrive” badge or ask for the vehicle’s VIN details. If you’re comfortable with front‑wheel drive and prioritize fuel savings, the sDrive28i remains a solid, well‑balanced option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the 2024 BMW X1 come standard with AWD?

No. AWD (xDrive) is an option on the 28i trim and mandatory on the 30e hybrid. The base sDrive28i is front‑wheel drive.

How does BMW label its AWD system?

BMW uses the name xDrive for all of its all‑wheel‑drive configurations, including those on the X1.

Can I add xDrive to a sDrive X1 after purchase?

Technically possible but impractical; the conversion requires extensive mechanical changes, so most owners choose to purchase an xDrive‑equipped vehicle instead.