Car Review: BMW X1 is performance-driven
Dec. 31—When the chips are down, there's no getting around the built-in performance and stability that stands out in the BMW X1. Not that we're smitten with the new small 'ute, but there is much to like about this third-generation luxury sub-compact crossover.
The 2023 version has been redesigned with an exterior flare, interior upgrades and a seven-speed dual clutch automatic transmission that scoots this 3,750-pounder to 60 miles per hour in just 5.5 seconds, while braking in just under 112 feet.
Chalk its performance up to the tranny's ability to deliver rapid-fire shifts, delivering 241 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. That's a jump of 13 ponies compared with the previous model and all-wheel drive is now standard with its turbocharged inline four-cylinder gas engine.
While putting the X-1 through its paces on curvy backroads and freeway straight-aways in south Florida, we took advantage of its adaptive sport suspension and launch control system that works with paddle shifters. Holding the downshift paddle downward for a few seconds results in a massive boost of power to scoot around rivals' Audi Q3, Cadillac XT4 and Mercedes-Benz GLA Class.
We quickly learned the standard drive mode has a consistent hesitancy off the line, perhaps from turbo lag, that prompted our consistent use of Sport mode.
There is a price for all this powerhouse performance that may lead to head-scratching while weighing its benefits. Our base SUV started at $39,600. Tack on $10,000 for M Sport and Premium package options and it flirts with $50 large. Although those taken with BMW performance, its braking, steering and firm suspension will have an easier time justifying the larger coin.
Inside is a pleasant mix of soft materials and attractive metal surfaces. Cabin noise is kept to a minimum on city streets and highway travel, unless you feel a need for a quick thrust of speed before returning to tranquility.
The dashboard is attractive with two, 10-plus-inch clusters for instrument readouts and infotainment touchscreen. If you like voice control commands starting with "Hey BMW," you can set navigation destinations, change radio stations, adjust climate and more without taking eyes off the road. Conversely, the iDrive controller has been discontinued on the X1 with touchscreen adjustments or voice commands as the only alternatives leaving loyalist BMW fans wondering about its usefulness.
Engineers win kudos for building an oversize phone charging pad to handle any size phone on the market and its kept securely in place with a safety bar.
We were impressed with its all-around handling features. Sport seats keep front seat occupants firmly in place and rear seat passengers have ample leg, shoulder and headroom.
The tester's safety equipment included frontal collision warning with city collision mitigation, blind spot detection and lane departure warning. Our tester was not equipped with adaptive cruise control.
The X1 includes an extensive warranty package and three years of normal maintenance service — a nice touch. Some rivals may have more elegant interiors with softer touches and roomier space; however, we think the X1 is one of the best-driving vehicles in its segment.
Contact independent automotive columnist Len Ingrassia at editor@ptd.net.
