BMW X1

The BMW X1 is a compact luxury crossover SUV designed and manufactured by BMW. It is based on the platform of the BMW 3 Series and shares a platform with the BMW X3. It is classified under the Midsize Cars category by the EPA. It was given an 8.2 rating by the U.S. News, which ranked it 6^th out of 10Luxury Compact SUVs, and 8^th in the Luxury Crossover SUV category. While the X1 may lack cargo space, its high-quality interior, precise steering, and outstanding performance are sure to please any buyer.

Performance

The performance was given an 8.0 rating by U.S. News. Although the X1’s base four-cylinder engine is not quite as powerful as the six-cylinder engine, many critics still prefer the base engine because of its eight-speed automatic transmission which is extremely smooth. Critics also praised the X1’s agile steering and strong brakes. There are two powertrain options available to buyers: the standard 28i model has a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that creates 240 horsepower, which is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and the xDrive35i model with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine that produces 300 horsepower, paired with all-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission. All X1 models require premium fuel and have strong fuel economy ratings for its class of car.

Interior

The X1’s interior was only given a 7.5 rating by U.S. News, probably because of the lack of cargo space. The interior is made with quality materials, and has 5 seats, although it seats four adults comfortably. The front seats have good legroom and headroom, and the second-row seats offer enough head and shoulder room to adequately seat two adults. The perch of the driver’s seat allows the driver a good perspective of the road. Buyers have the option of adding heat capability to both front seats. Eight-way power-adjustable front seats are also optional. The base X1 comes with standard interior features including a USB port, HD Radio, Bluetooth, and an eight-speaker stereo. Optional features include satellite radio, navigation, Harman/Kardon surround-sound system, iDrive infotainment system. The X1 has 14.8 cubic feet of cargo space, which increases to 47.7 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down.

Pros/Cons

Although the six-cylinder engine offers more power than the base engine, the six-speed automatic transmission is slightly less fun to drive because it shifts slower. The 14.8 cubic feet of cargo space is adequate but not as good as some of its competitors. This is probably the biggest complaint among critics, and the biggest drawback to the car. Some critics have said the secondary controls can be confusing, and the X1 is a bit expensive, especially if you add a ton of optional features. Overall, the X1 has been praised by critics. It is more agile and responsive than the BMW X3, and the X1 M Sport Line package enhances the X1’s performance via its sport suspension. There is adequate space for passengers and the interior is beautifully designed.

Other Features

BMW has three trims of the BMW X1 available. The X1 sDrive28i starts at $30 800; the X1 xDrive28i starts at $32 500; the X1 xDrive35i starts at $38 600. Buyers can expect to pay between $35 000 and $45 000, depending on what features they add. Unfortunately, the X1 has not yet been evaluated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, so there are no safety ratings or reviews available yet. Basic safety features include 4-wheel ABS, child seat anchors, emergency braking assist, rear door child safety locks, front fog/driving lights, traction control, post-collision safety system, and driver head restrain whiplash protection system. Other safety features can be added on for a cost.