BMW has made very few changes to the X1 for 2021: SiriusXM satellite radio is now standard, and LED fog lamps are no longer part of the optional Convenience or Premium packages. Also, BMW won't let customers order the sports seats as a standalone option anymore. You have to select the M Sport pack if you want them.
Pros Peppy turbo four, crisp handling, practical interior.
Cons Unsupportive standard front seats, aging infotainment interface, bland styling.
The 2021 BMW X1 is an appealing crossover with hatchback moves, but keep a lid on options for the better value.
Pros Turbocharged punch Nimble around-town handling Good transmission Comfy front seats Reasonably large cargo area
Cons Stodgy vs. expressive rivals Rear-seat leg room Infotainment’s clunky controller Chintzy interior bits Can get expensive
The 2021 BMW X1's #1 ranking is based on its score within the Luxury Subcompact SUVs category. Currently the BMW X1 has a score of 8.4 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 34 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Sporty handling Potent engine Intuitive infotainment system Large cargo hold
Cons Firm ride Some low-rent cabin materials
Cupra’s first standalone model is a handsome crossover with decent road manners and plenty of space
Pros Sharp looks, handles well for a crossover, plenty of space and equipment
Cons Fiddly touch-sensitive heater almost as annoying as having to explain the badge to your mates
Pros Strong range of engine options Great interior style and quality Genuinely good fun to drive for an SUV
Cons Fairly limited personalisation options There are more practical options Some infotainment frustrations
The Cupra Formentor doesn't feel as playful as the closely related Volkswagen T-Roc R, but it’s every bit as fast in its similarly priced, range-topping form, plus it handles with composure and has a much nicer interior. In addition, cheaper, less powerful versions of the Formentor offer the same sporty looks as the flagship model – something that isn’t the case with lesser T-Rocs. Just bear in mind that you can have our 2021 Sports SUV of the Year, the Ford Puma ST, for not much more than the cheapest Formentor.
Pros Well equipped Surefooted and grippy handling Smart interior
Cons TSI 310 isn’t as much fun as the very best sports SUVs Slightly hesitant automatic gearbox Fiddly controls
