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 2020 Kia Soul compact hatchback is proof of life among small, inexpensive cars.
Pros Good style that’s grown on us Fuel-efficient powertrains Low price, but not cheap Versatile interior Comfortable for adults
Cons Base Soul skimps on safety Top engine isn’t great No AWD Limited rearward vision
The 2020 Kia Soul ranked #1 in Subcompact SUVs. Currently the Kia Soul has a score of 8.4 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 18 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Large cargo capacity User-friendly tech features Comfortable, roomy seats
Cons Middling interior quality Rivals are more athletic
The 2020 Kia Soul comes with front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: continuously variable-speed automatic.The 2020 Kia Soul is totally redesigned.Restyled exterior and new base powertrain.Part of the third Soul generation introduced for 2020.
Pros Lots of features for the price Roomier than other subcompact crossovers Surprisingly fun to drive Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Cons Excessive wind and tire noise at freeway speeds Clunky response from turbocharged engine's transmission
