By going transverse-engined the X1 has become technically less distinctive, but more useful in the real world.This is the second-generation BMW X1. The smallest BMW SUV. And this time around there’s been a big change. It’s based not on the natively rear-drive platform of the last one, but on the same front-drive/4WD setup as the 2 Series Active Tourer MPV, Mini Countryman and so-on.
Pros Performance, chassis and space, much-improved style
Cons Not cheap, interior a bit old-feeling, slightly brittle ride
"The BMW X1 is an economical, practical and good-to-drive compact SUV that’s better-looking than the model it replaced"There are two petrol engines to choose from, a 138bhp three-cylinder, 1.5-litre petrol engine is offered in the front-wheel drive X1 sDrive18i, while the sDrive20i sits on the next rung of the ladder with a 2.0-litre, 189bhp engine, and the four-wheel drive xDrive20i sits above that. The latter is a quick car, reaching 62mph from rest in just over seven seconds, although its fuel economy can't match the less expensive model.
PROS Very good to drive Cheap to run Practical
CONS Expensive to buy Baffling list of optional extras Basic model is two-wheel-drive only
The BMW X1 is a fun-to-drive and well-built alternative to the likes of the Volvo XC40 and Audi Q3.
Pros Enjoyable to drive High-quality interior Decent cabin space
Cons A little noisy at speed Limited smartphone mirroring Alternatives have bigger boots
BMW has made a number of features standard across the X1 lineup this year, including driver-assistance features such as forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, parking sensors, and automatic high-beam headlamps. Navigation with real-time traffic updates is also now included, as is Apple CarPlay, but for some reason BMW requires an annual fee for that normally free feature after the first year.
Pros Sweetheart engine and transmission, athletic chassis, capacious cargo hold.
Cons Unsupportive standard seats, slow infotainment system, subtle exterior styling.
The 2019 BMW X1 crossover is the right shape and the right price for entry luxury buyers willing to overlook some flaws.
pros Good powertrain Spacious cargo area Standard automatic emergency braking Available all-wheel drive...
Cons ...but it’s pricey, like everything else Styling is aged Budget materials in lower trims Why ask more for CarPlay?
The 2019 BMW X1 comes with all wheel drive, and front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic.Navigation with real-time traffic, one year of Apple CarPlay and remote services are now standard.Active driver aids — such as forward collision warning, lane departure warning and high-beam assistant - are now standard.
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 Standard sport suspension may be jarring on rough roads Not particularly quiet on the highway
