3 Cheapest BMWs (with Maintenance Costs)

BMWs are admired for their quality, but they are also expensive to own. So before you buy a BMW, be sure you can afford the payments and maintenance of these cars. However, for those who want the status of a BMW without paying an arm and a leg, here are 3 of the cheapest BMWs with relatively low maintenance costs.

3. 2016-2020 BMW 320i Sedan with xDrive

The BMW 320i Sedan with xDrive has a base price of $38,900, weighing in as the third-cheapest car to purchase. It gets 27 miles per gallon in the city and 36 miles per gallon on highways. Overall, its reliability score is 8.0 out of 10, so they are inexpensive to fix when things break.

Engine

The BMW 320i has either a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine or a 2.0L turbocharged I4 engine, which provides 184 hp and 200 ft-lb of torque to the front wheels while making it fuel-efficient. In addition, the vehicle comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission that can provide power when needed or reduce fuel consumption during cruising periods.

Because this car is used by many people, it needs to be easy to drive. However, this engine gives the driver a more dynamic driving experience too.

Features

Despite being one of the cheaper BMW models, the 2020 BMW 320i with xDrive has excellent features for a sporty luxury car. For example, the suspension improves handling characteristics and makes the car quieter and smoother to drive.

It also comes with several driver assistance features like lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation braking system (with automatic brake hold), and collision warning with braking. These features and the vehicle’s core functions can be operated through an 8.8″ LCD touch screen display in the center console and the iDrive system.

It has a BMW 320i xDrive all-wheel-drive system that can distribute power from front to back depending on how much grip each wheel has on the road, improving handling characteristics and safety.

Cost To Own

The BMW 320i costs more than your average car to maintain; according to RepairPal, the average annual maintenance cost is $920. However, observe the table below to see the 5-year cost to own.


Year 1Year 2Year 3Year 4Year 5Total
Insurance$915$947$980$1,014$1050$4,906
Maintenance$0$0$716$3,750$2,907$7,373
Financing$1,079$853$622$382$136$3,072
Depreciation$4,522$4,751$3,881$4,352$3,802$21,308
Fuel$1,815$1,869$1,926$1,983$2,043$9,636
Repairs$0$0$0$1,137$1,750$2,887
Taxes$1,796$41$41$41$41$1,960
True Cost$10,127$8,461$8,166$12,659$11,729$51,142

Common Problems

Whether you are buying a new or used 3 Series, it’s essential to know its everyday problems. Unfortunately, despite the German automaker’s quality engineering, you will still encounter problems. 

  • Engine problems – specifically with the fuel pumps. This would cause engine stalling, rough idling, long crank times, etc. The variable valve-timing system also would push the car into limp mode.
  • Electrical problems – commonly having issues with the batteries. Key ignition lock problems and battery terminal corrosion would cause potential power issues.

Also read: Are BMWIs BMW F30 Reliable? (the Most Important Facts)

2. 2016-2020 BMW X2 SAV

Another affordable model made by BMW is the X2 SAV, which has a base price of $36,600, weighing in as the second-cheapest vehicle. The fuel economy for this vehicle is impressive, managing to get 32mpg on the highway and 25mpg in the city. Unfortunately, despite its sporty suspension, it can have a harsh ride, and passengers can feel every bump in the road.

The X2 SAV is an SUV/Crossover-style automobile that may not be as great on fuel efficiency as some comparable models, but it’s reliable. Overall, its reliability score is 7.4 out of 10, which means it still doesn’t visit the shop as much as other comparable luxury models. Compared to other SAVs/SUVs, the BMW X2 is more luxurious. It has more features than the similar Mercedes.

Engine

The BMW X2 comes equipped with a 2.0L turbocharged 4 cylinder that produces 228 horsepower and over 258 lb-ft of torque, with some models maxing over 302 horsepower. With this engine, the X2 manages to accelerate from 0 to 60mph in only 4.6 seconds in higher trim models.

The engine is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, which provides smooth shifting and reduces the engine’s workload. The drivetrain is FWD, takes corners fast, and rewards the driver with predictability.

Trending Video: How to Easily Bring Back to Life any Old Car Battery and Save Tons of Money (click to watch)

Features

The latest​​ X2 models include a panoramic sunroof, keyless entry with push-button ignition, LED headlights, 20″ alloy wheels along with many more options. It is also equipped with an 8.8-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility and wireless phone charging for compatible phones.

The BMW X2 is a perfect example of what defines the new SUV/Crossover class. It has sleek lines, athletic body lines, and a high-end interior that keeps up with the best in its class. In addition, the exterior gives off an air of sportiness that would be impossible to get from the larger models.

The vehicle’s exterior design emphasizes its sporty nature with the coupe-like roofline, muscular wheel arches, and elongated hood. The car’s interior is just as stunning with its Carbon Fiber Trim Accents, BMW Lounge Light, optional heated front seats, and wireless charging pad.

Cost to Own

The annual maintenance cost of a BMW X2 SUV/Crossover runs about $1,100, which is $280 more than a BMW X1 SUV/Crossover and $200 more than an Audi Q3 SUV/Crossover.


Year 1Year 2Year 3Year 4Year 5Total
Insurance$839$864$890$917$944$4,454
Maintenance$647$2,784$2,428$1,475$3,195$10,529
Financing$823$651$475$292$104$2,345
Depreciation$6,146$4,118$3,623$3,213$2,883$19,983
Fuel$2,178$2,243$2,311$2,380$2,451$11,563
Repairs$0$1,142$1,761$1,898$2,043$6,844
Taxes$1,382$41$41$41$41$1,546
True Cost$12,015$11,843$11,529$10,216$11,661$57,264

Common Problems

Despite the high-quality construction of most of their models, the BMW X2 still has issues. Here are some common problems with the vehicle. 

  • Crankshaft Sensor – a software fault causes issues an engine malfunction. As a result, the vehicle may run rough and have reduced power.

  • Tie rod – it may not have been assembled correctly; therefore, it could cause many issues with steering.

Also read: Lexus vs BMW: Here’s What’s Better for You

1. 2016-2020 BMW X1 SAV

The last model I want to discuss is the BMW X1 SAV, and it’s also one of the cheapest models to buy. The BMW X1 SAV has a base price of $35,400. In addition, it gets 22 miles per gallon in the city and 28 miles per gallon on highways. The BMW X1 SAV is a sleek and sporty crossover vehicle, boasting impressive torque and horsepower.

Overall, its reliability score is 7.0 out of 10 and seems to have more issues with reliability than the other models I’ve discussed so far. It has three-row seating, allowing for up to seven passengers. A larger storage compartment, ample engine power, and straightforward infotainment controls were designed with convenience in mind.

This is a very stylish vehicle for the price tag with many attractive features that set it apart from the SAV models. However, the X1 is of lower quality in engineering materials, and considering MSRP, there are noticeable quality differences compared to the X2 or the 320i.

Engine

The BMW X1 is a 2.0L 4-cylinder TwinPower Turbo producing 240 horsepower and 260 lb-ft torque. This engine has an EPA fuel economy rating of 22 MPG City and 32 MPG Highway. An 8-speed automatic transmission comes standard on the BMW X1, and the transmission has a wide range of gears to maximize power and fuel efficiency.

With the engine, transmission, and rear wheels working harmoniously, 0-60 mph acceleration time in 7.0 seconds with RWD. In addition, the BMW X1 can transition from AWD to RWD by simply touching a button depending on your trim level.

Features

A BMW X1 SAV is an SUV with various options and features. It can seat 5 people comfortably, has a panoramic moonroof, and comes standard with two-zone automatic climate control. Further, comfort features include the air suspension that helps to provide a smooth ride and an advanced parking assistant that can assist with parallel, perpendicular, and angled parking. In addition, it has handy exterior mirrors with an automatic dimming feature for increased visibility.

The safety features include the automatic high beams, which keep the lights on when there is no oncoming traffic. Meanwhile, blind-spot monitoring keeps track of cars in the driver’s blind spots to ensure maximum safety. Other options include seat memory and a hands-free power trunk.

Cost to Own

The annual maintenance cost for a BMW X1 SAV is $915; however, refer to the table below for an in-depth cost-to-own


Year 1Year 2Year 3Year 4Year 5Total
Insurance$861$891$922$955$988$4,617
Maintenance$0$0$700$2,951$3,457$7,108
Financing$1,052$833$607$373$133$2,998
Depreciation$5,097$4,143$3,385$3,795$3,315$19,735
Fuel$2,095$2,157$2,222$2,289$2,357$11,120
Repairs$0$0$0$1,203$1,852$3,055
Taxes$1,754$41$41$41$41$1,918
True Cost$10,859$8,065$7,877$11,607$12,143$50,551

Common Problems

If you’re considering purchasing a BMW X1, I would ensure that I was adequately informed of the vehicle’s specifications. Here are some common problems that you may find with this model.

  • Cooling System Problems – usually issues with leaking coolant. It may happen because of failing sources like seal problems and poor design.

  • Engine Problems – the engine mounts were prone to crack, which seemed to happen on newer BMWs.

Also read: Are BMWs Reliable After 100k Miles? (Checked)

Conclusion

While the three models we’ve listed are some of the cheapest BMWs on the market, that doesn’t mean they don’t have their share of problems. Therefore, it is essential to be more aware of potential issues with cheaper BMW models and what you can expect in terms of maintenance costs. 

These cars offer a great option to have all the benefits of a BMW without breaking the bank. All vehicles have their pros and cons, though, and it’s up to you to decide if the benefits of a particular BMW outweigh the costs. 

References

Top 10 Cheapest BMWs to Maintain (Revealed) – MotorAsk, What Is the Cheapest BMW You Can Buy?, What’s the Best Cheap BMW You Can Buy Right Now?, 2020 BMW 3 Series: True Cost to Own | Edmunds, Common BMW Problems: BMW 3-Series Problems | The Haus – Independent MINI Cooper & BMW Repair, BMW X2 Front Wheel Drive SAV – Offsite Location In-Production, 2020 BMW X2 Prices, Reviews, & Pictures | US News, New 2022 BMW X2 Reviews, Pricing & Specs | Kelley Blue Book, 2022 BMW X2 Review, Pricing, and Specs, BMW X2 Maintenance Schedule and Costs, 2019 BMW X2: True Cost to Own | Edmunds, 2022 BMW X1 Prices, Reviews, & Pictures | US News, BMW X1 Reliability – 2022 Ratings | RepairPal, 2022 BMW X1 Prices, Reviews, & Pictures | US News, Don’t Be Fooled by a Cheap Luxury SUV, 2021 BMW X1: True Cost to Own | Edmunds, Used BMW X2 Review – 2018-present Reliability, Common Problems | What Car?, Here Are The BMW X1 Years To Avoid – CoPilot,