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
DS7 Crossback will be the brand’s largest SUV This flagship model will boast bold styling and high-tech kit New DS Pilot autonomous driving features will be offered Advanced suspension promises excellent refinement. The DS7 Crossback’s bold, angular styling should come as no great surprise considering DS’ extensive back catalogue of wild concept cars. From the intricate headlights with swivelling LED modules to its vast chrome-framed grille, this new car makes every attempt to stand out from the usual sea of restrained, business-like SUVs.
DS promises a luxurious interior and generous standard kit for the 7 Crossback. On the exterior, it has a large, stylish front grille, wide air intakes and LED lights, all of which help to give the car an aggressive, sporty look, while it's full of tech inside, with a 12.0in infotainment touchscreen and a customisable digital instrument display. It should be practical, too, with seats for five with the promise of good head and leg room and a large boot. DS is a very new name to the car industry, having been launched as Citroën's premium sister brand two years ago. Until now, though, it has only sold cars that were previously badged as Citroëns, so this mid-sized SUV will be the first true DS car.
