By going transverse-engined the X1 has become technically less distinctive, but more useful in the real world.This is the second-generation BMW X1. The smallest BMW SUV. And this time around there’s been a big change. It’s based not on the natively rear-drive platform of the last one, but on the same front-drive/4WD setup as the 2 Series Active Tourer MPV, Mini Countryman and so-on.
Pros Performance, chassis and space, much-improved style
Cons Not cheap, interior a bit old-feeling, slightly brittle ride
"The BMW X1 is an economical, practical and good-to-drive compact SUV that’s better-looking than the model it replaced"There are two petrol engines to choose from, a 138bhp three-cylinder, 1.5-litre petrol engine is offered in the front-wheel drive X1 sDrive18i, while the sDrive20i sits on the next rung of the ladder with a 2.0-litre, 189bhp engine, and the four-wheel drive xDrive20i sits above that. The latter is a quick car, reaching 62mph from rest in just over seven seconds, although its fuel economy can't match the less expensive model.
PROS Very good to drive Cheap to run Practical
CONS Expensive to buy Baffling list of optional extras Basic model is two-wheel-drive only
The BMW X1 is a fun-to-drive and well-built alternative to the likes of the Volvo XC40 and Audi Q3.
Pros Enjoyable to drive High-quality interior Decent cabin space
Cons A little noisy at speed Limited smartphone mirroring Alternatives have bigger boots
This is the all-new Renault Koleos, a name you might remember from when the French carmaker tried its hand at SUVs before they became truly fashionable. That one was pulled from sale in the UK back in 2010 due to slow sales (and the fact it was a bit rubbish).New Renault Koleos majors on passenger space and isn’t a bad drive either It seems to be second-time lucky for the Koleos: with its smaller siblings – the Captur and Kadjar – both performing well, Renault hopes that this larger model further boost its fortunes.
Pros Passenger space, standard equipment, driving refinement
Cons Only offered as a five-seater, no auto for smaller engine
The Koleos is stylish and well equipped, but it’s not as spacious or as well made as some of its rivals.
Pros Well equipped Nicely finished inside Lots of safety kit
Cons Lumpy ride No seven-seat option Limited boot space
The exterior changes of this Renault Koleos 2020 with very subtle. Aesthetically there is not a big jump although this facelift will arrive with some changes, especially in the front with new Pure Vision LED headlights available throughout the range and a newly designed lower area of the bumpers and fog lights, an area that also changes slightly In the back. A series of touch-ups with which you want to offer a somewhat more elegant image and also offering the SUV's more off-road appearance . Updates in this exterior section are completed with a new Vintage Red metallic color and two-tone alloy wheels. The interior is also updated with improved softer feel materials , revised inserts and rear seats that receive a reclining backrest in two stages. The R-Link2 infotainment system has also been improved by adding integration with Apple CarPlay that can be accessed through 7 or 8.7-inch touchscreens . In the safety section, you receive a new automatic emergency braking system with pedestrian detection.
