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 HR-V returns unchanged for the 2020 model year.
Pros Average-size adults fit comfortably in the front and back Clever cargo solutions make it more versatile than rivals Better than most competitors on fuel economy Excellent outward visibility
Cons Unimpressive power output results in lackluster acceleration Palpable engine noise and vibration Touchscreen interface is difficult to use Cabin materials look a little cheaper than those in some rivals
The 2020 Honda HR-V oozes with practicality, though gas mileage and safety equipment have room to improve.
Pros Brilliant interior flexibility Good value even at top trim Tidy interior Rides well
Cons Slow acceleration A few too many details Emergency braking only on EX and above Pricey Touring trim
Honda made some superficial and mechanical changes to the HR-V for the previous model year, but it doesn't make any significant updates to the 2020 lineup.
Pros Impressive fuel economy, outstanding cargo storage, durable and well-built interior.
Cons Buzzy engine sounds, choppy ride on rough roads, top features reserved for top model.
