Summary
The BMW X1 is a luxury subcompact SUV that has been available since 2013. With a ride described as comfortable and smooth, the X1 is the smallest SUV in the company's lineup, offering relative affordability. Growing families might be most attracted to later models with the larger back seats, while higher trim levels bring more in the way of safety and technology. The BMW X1 checks a lot of boxes in terms of looks, with fuel economy that's light on your wallet. We recommend test driving different trim levels to find the best choice.
Safety
Expect to find plenty of safety measures in the BMW X1. Since the model launched, the following have been standard on the base trim xDrive28i:
- Front and side airbags
- Brake assist to help stop quickly in emergencies
- Daytime running lights
- Integrated turn signal mirrors to help pedestrians, cyclists and cars better prepare for your turn
- Child safety locks
Active safety features are available on higher trims across model years. The Driving Assistant package includes:
- Lane departure warning (from 2016 onward) alerts when veering out of your lane
- Rearview camera to help manoeuvre out of tight spaces
- Pedestrian alert pre-conditions brakes for faster responsiveness—or initiates a full brake if contact is imminent
- Collision warning and pre-crash system, which activates warning blinkers at double tempo and closes side windows and glass roof
Interior
The BMW X1 is a cozy ride for the driver and front seat passenger. The optional sun/moonroof expands the feeling of headroom, while leather accents come standard. Upgrading your package will get you finer trimmings, such as heated seats and leather upholstery—even red leather. The X1 seats five.
Technology
Since the BMW X1 is only in its sixth year of production, any one you test drive will feature modern technology. Appearing as an add-on in 2018, both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto became standard in 2019. In models from 2016, you'll find the X1's infotainment screen controlled by a dial between the front seats. A futuristic sidekick to that system, called heads-up display, projects information directly onto the windshield. Other tech specs available in the sDrive28i trim level from 2013 are:
- HD radio with optional satellite radio
- CD player and auxiliary jack
- High-end sound system
- Hands-free calling and texting
Keyless entry and a panoramic sunroof was added in 2013 with the Premium package.
Space
The BMW X1 is reported to have a limited amount of backseat legroom in model years 2013–2015. Afterwards, the backseat became a comfortable place for adults to slide freely into. Cargo room is also more substantial since the 2016 redesign. If you plan on frequently driving friends and family, we recommend starting there.
Comfort
The X1 has smooth, athletic handling, a powerful turbocharged engine with peppy acceleration and surprisingly lean fuel economy for its class. Automatic transmission with manual functions gives you the best of both worlds. All-wheel, front-wheel and even rear-wheel drive are on the table for this luxury SUV.
