Question 1

Do all BMW SUVs have four-wheel drive?

Accepted Answer

No. Versions badged sDrive drive one axle only, and they exist on the X1, X2 and some X3s. xDrive marks four-wheel drive, which the X5, X6 and X7 almost always have.

Question 2

Diesel, petrol or plug-in hybrid for a used BMW SUV?

Accepted Answer

Diesel suits long motorway distances but carries a Crit'Air 2 sticker, which faces tighter limits in some low-emission zones. A plug-in hybrid with an e in its name, such as an X1, X3 or X5, only saves fuel if it is charged regularly; check the electric range on a full battery.

Question 3

Why does the carte grise cost more for a big BMW SUV?

Accepted Answer

The regional tax on the certificat d'immatriculation is charged per fiscal horsepower, and powerful six- or eight-cylinder versions have a high rating. Rates differ between regions, so work it out before agreeing a price.

Question 4

What should I check on a used BMW xDrive?

Accepted Answer

Ask for the transfer case and differential oil history, and listen for clunks or binding on full lock at low speed, which can point to transfer-box wear. Mismatched tyres between the axles strain the system, so all four should be the same.

Used BMW SUVs

BMW X1 ieDrive20 204ch M Sport

BMW X2 sDrive20iA 170ch M Sport DKG7

BMW X5 xDrive45e 394ch M Sport

BMW X3 xDrive30e 299ch M Sport

BMW X5 xDrive45e 394ch M Sport 17cv

BMW X3 xDrive30e 299ch M Sport

BMW X1 sDrive20i 170ch M Sport

BMW X1 sDrive20i 170ch M Sport

BMW X3 sDrive18d 150ch BVA8 Business Design

BMW X6 G06 xDrive30d 265 ch BVA8 M Sport