The BMW X1 is the cheapest of the X-range, so does
this mean you’re short changed of the BMW experience?
You can pick between two engines. The 2-liter
turbocharged four-cylinder produces 240hp and can be hand in either
rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive and the top of the range 3-liter
turbocharged six-cylinder producing 300hp can only be had with all-wheel-drive.
Our money goes to the xDrive28i which makes the most sense financially.
On the road the X1 is quite easy to drive thanks to
its compact dimensions. Steering feels direct and offers plenty of feedback and
the ride overall is good but could be better. Our biggest complaint is the
stop/start system which sends shutters through the entire car when the engine
reactivates. For a luxury brand this is just downright disappointing. The
four-cylinder at idle sounds like a diesel engine with way too much clatter
noise than we’d like.
In the cabin there is plenty of room for four,
adding a fifth person is pushing it. The large transmission tunnel makes life
for the middleman uncomfortable. Plus there really isn’t a lot of legroom in
the back compared to some indirect competitors which offer more space. The dashboard
is the typical minimalistic design. We however were disappointed with the
overall quality of the materials used. Much of the plastics felt cheap and
below the standards we’ve come to expect of BMW. The boot offers decent space
but it’s far from class leading.
Automatic climate control, rain sensing windshield wipers
and integrated roof rails come standard. You’ll have to step up to the top of
the range to get xenon headlamps, 18-inch alloy wheels and Bluetooth
connectivity.
If you have to have a compact crossover with a BMW
badge the X1 is for you. Otherwise we highly suggest looking at its indirect
competition which offers a more compelling package.
Likes: Turbo
engines offer plenty of pep when needed. Starting price is attractive too. Overall
comfortable crossover that is classy thanks to the BMW badge.
Dislikes: Start/stop technology sends shutters
through the cabin when engine reactivates. Typical BMW stingy with the standard
features, the options can sky rocket price quickly too.
Xdrive28i is the pick of the range. If you stay
clear of the options list and turn off the stop/start system it really isn’t a
bad choice. However it isn’t great either.
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