I am regularly shocked to find out how long it has been since I drove the first edition of the current model.
In the case of this week’s review car, the BMW X1 crossover, it surprised me that it debuted in 2009. A lot has happened in the meantime, but let’s not dwell on it. Today is the only day that matters.
Many changes have been made to the X1 over that time, not all of them completely successful. Admittedly, the early versions looked a little uncouth.
There’s a new one on the market now and we couldn’t wait to see what they did with it.
The X1 is a decent seller here. , do not blame. I’m happy to report that they didn’t take the easy road with this – not that I can see anyway.
I think it’s a big step forward. As for its value, I suspect it will give potential buyers of close rivals such as the Audi Q3 and Mercedes GLA a second or third look.
The X1 has had a lot of work to do since it was first introduced. In 2009, it was seen as something of a cramped baby BMW, created to give aspirants their first step to something bigger, more attractive and, of course, more expensive. After all, the name of the game is profit.
The original baby has grown. With this latest version he can stand on its own as one of the best products of its kind.
It looks much better than its predecessor. As for the grille, they didn’t hesitate – it dominates the front of the car.
If previous versions of the X1 were criticized for lacking a bit of the presence that this type of car should have, this model has plenty of presence without having to resort to a big, loud grille.
Large wheel arches and a long roof spoiler make a strong impression.
The interior has also been significantly improved thanks to a major upgrade to the dashboard and instrumentation, which is based almost entirely on the 2 Series Active Tourer MPV.
If it works well in MPV, we can hardly blame them for moving it over to their siblings.
A new curved touchscreen area that combines the 10.25″ information and control displays onto a 10.7″ screen and the removal of cluttered switchgear give the cabin an open plan feel. Minimalist with features, that’s what I call it.
I need more. Too many manufacturers do away with anything resembling buttons and expect users to hunt through tons of menus to find what they need.
The front seat occupants are well watched. There’s plenty of room – lots of leg and shoulder room. Rear-seat passengers often don’t do so well in such cars. Basically, there was a reminder from the brand pointing out to me that the child was most likely the sole occupant. In other words, smaller frames can be squeezed in.
There’s nothing cramped behind the new X1. Especially now that it’s added to the wheelbase. It may look like a small extension on paper, but the effect is amazing. This is very spacious and adults can travel comfortably.
Some large SUVs are happy to have such space at their disposal.
Particularly practical is the ability to slide the rear seats forwards and backwards by 30mm on petrol and diesel versions. That means extra space for backseat occupants or more room for luggage.
But, as is almost always the case with BMW, traction is key. I own an xDrive23i M Sport xDrive (all wheel drive) and was enjoying the experience given how long it had been since I last drove such a car with a 2 liter petrol engine.
A little thirsty – diesel, plug-in and EV versions are here or imminent in case you want to be more thrifty.
Handling and ride quality are fine, and I set the suspension base settings a little softer than I would like.
Personally, I think Audi’s Q3 has a sharper drive (although it doesn’t have as much backseat space).
The X1 is definitely a well thought out package and one I would buy if I had the need and the money.
fact file
BMW X1 xDrive23i Small Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), 2-litre, 4-cylinder petrol, 218 bhp, automatic.
Prices start at €48,200. The xDrive 23i M Sport costs €69,110 and that version is reviewed here.
Key additions to the standard equipment include several safety technologies. Parking Assistant includes a reverse assist camera. Voice control, 2-zone automatic climate control.
A curved screen incorporates infotainment and control displays.
