BMW has rearranged the X1’s lineup for 2018 and now offers five distinct trims—base, Convenience, M Sport, Premium, and M Sport Premium—each with more features than the last. Only a few features are still offered as standalone options on non-Premium trims, including front and rear parking sensors ($800), LED headlamps ($950), Navigation ($950), and heated seats and steering wheel ($550). Some new features join the party for 2018; a backup camera is now standard, as is BMW’s ConnectedDrive in-car concierge service. Apple CarPlay is now optional ($300) as is onboard Wi-Fi with wireless device charging ($500). A new color—Sunset Orange Metallic—replaces Chestnut Bronze.
Pros Sweetheart engine and transmission, athletic chassis, capacious cargo hold.
Cons Unsupportive standard seats, slow infotainment system, subtle exterior styling.
The 2018 BMW X1 is a compelling crossover pick for a budget BMW buyer who can’t do without a roundel.
pros Subtle but good looks Responsive turbo-4 Good 8-speed automatic Relatively good value in base guise Spacious cargo area
Cons Options add up quickly Front seats aren’t the best seats Pricey advanced safety package No manual transmission?
The 2018 BMW X1 is a five-seat compact SUV in the luxury segment. It comes in two versions: the front-wheel-drive X1 sDrive28i and the all-wheel-drive X1 xDrive28i. From there, you have two directions to go: xLine Design or the sportier M Sport Design. After that, you can add various option groups that BMW calls tiers. The M Sport Design already comes with the Convenience group, which is optional on the xLine Design. Afterward, packages and stand-alone options are available based on which initial design and group you select.
PROS Strong and responsive turbo engine Sharp handling makes it fun to drive Plenty of rear passenger and cargo room High-quality materials and fit-and-finish
CONS Not particularly quiet on the highway Standard sport suspension may be jarring on rough roads
The 2018 BMW X5 ranked #2 in Luxury Midsize SUVs. Currently the BMW X5 has a score of 8.8 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 29 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Lineup of hearty engines Sleek, user-friendly infotainment system Supremely comfortable front seats Nimble, stable handling
Cons Cramped optional third-row seats
The 2018 BMW X5 remains a thoughtful crossover SUV for families, although enthusiasts may be left wanting unless the right options are selected.
Pros Wide array of engines available Roomy, refined interior Upscale demeanor Diesel engine reasonably efficient X5 M is a blast
Cons Bland style Light on personality Optional third row’s a joke Be prepared to spend big bucks
Is it possible that the BMW X5 has a better reputation than it deserves? While the first-generation model earned kudos for its lithe dynamics and athletic looks upon its debut as a 2001 model, the subsequent two generations grew larger, more unwieldy, and less BMW-like in their quest to capitalize on the luxury-SUV mania.
Pros Unimpeachable inline-six, pleasant interior environment, intuitive infotainment.
Cons Ponderous handling, clunky ride, pinched third row.
