BMW X1 (2021)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 11,979 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
93%
Total Tests (2024)
11,979
Avg Mileage
24,155 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,482
Is the 2021 BMW X1 reliable?
Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 11 points above the national average of 82%. It also outperforms the BMW brand average of 88%.
At 3 years old, 93% of BMW X1s from 2021 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 11,979 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 24,155 miles.
How does the 2021 BMW X1 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2021 BMW X1 has 24,155 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 22,200 miles for a 3-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a BMW X1?
The most reliable year is the 2022 model with a 94% MOT pass rate, while the 2009 model has the lowest at 81%. The 2021 sits between the two at 93%.
How much does a 2021 BMW X1 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
BMW X1 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 94% | 848 | 21,338 mi |
| 2021 | 93% | 11,979 | 24,155 mi |
| 2020 | 93% | 13,908 | 30,064 mi |
| 2019 | 93% | 25,371 | 36,772 mi |
| 2018 | 91% | 27,077 | 46,309 mi |
| 2017 | 91% | 25,593 | 58,173 mi |
| 2016 | 90% | 22,978 | 65,476 mi |
| 2015 | 87% | 8,814 | 73,240 mi |
| 2014 | 83% | 15,131 | 82,597 mi |
| 2013 | 83% | 15,032 | 86,916 mi |
| 2012 | 82% | 11,339 | 97,547 mi |
| 2011 | 81% | 12,207 | 105,382 mi |
| 2010 | 81% | 9,233 | 112,064 mi |
| 2009 | 81% | 877 | 117,777 mi |
Checking a specific BMW X1?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2021 BMW X1
The 2021 BMW X1 is a premium with a 1995cc diesel engine. 11,979 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it one of the most commonly tested cars on UK roads. Among all cars from 2021, the average MOT pass rate is 92%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 24,155 miles at 3 years old, BMW X1 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2021 BMW X1 Fuel Costs
The 1995cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 48 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,037 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2021 BMW X1?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,482 (£124/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £190 road tax, £55 MOT, and £200 predicted repairs. The low repair estimate reflects the excellent 93% pass rate. These cars rarely fail their MOT, so unexpected bills are less likely.
BMW X1 Reliability Trend
Newer BMW X1s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 10 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2021 BMW X1
At 3 years old, this is still relatively fresh. You may find examples with remaining manufacturer warranty. Depreciation is slowing but hasn't bottomed out yet. If you're flexible on year, the 2022 model has the highest pass rate at 94%. With 11,979 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2021 BMW X1
The BMW X1 is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel premiums from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- FORD FOCUS (2019) 89% pass rate (-4%) from 93,803 tests
- FORD KUGA (2019) 91% pass rate (-2%) from 72,831 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2019) 89% pass rate (-4%) from 65,751 tests
- FORD TRANSIT CUSTOM (2019) 87% pass rate (-6%) from 59,814 tests