![]() The power from the four-cylinder is smooth and strong, but wonky transmission tuning keeps the car in too high of a gear a lot of time, leaving the X1 feeling flat-footed when you need a quick burst of power.Īround turns, the X1 provides huge amounts of grip and stays balanced and controllable. At our test track, the X1 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds, which is noticeably quicker than the Audi Q3 and Mercedes GLB. How does the X1 drive? Our BMW X1 test car came with the M Sport package that adds 19-inch wheels wrapped in high-performance summer tires. If you want a BMW with all the features of the big dogs but have a more modest budget, the X1 might be the SUV for you. It drives better, too, with agile handling and a peppy turbocharged engine. The 2023 BMW X1 is a technological tour de force, and its interior design isn't vastly different from what more expensive models in the range offer. We just expect a little more refinement from a luxury SUV. Actual braking performance was fine, so we'd have no concerns in a panic situation. ![]() It felt surprisingly firm and somewhat touchy. Our biggest issue is with the brake pedal. ![]() Standard all-wheel drive is a boon and means there's never a shortage of traction. On the road, the ride can feel a bit stiff, but that's countered by composed handling and a surprisingly sporty feel. The last X1 was one of the better-handling vehicles in this class, and the new model is no exception. Other highlights include an augmented reality display for the navigation system, new video recording capability for crashes and theft, and hands-free driving capability during certain situations. The newly standard blind-spot warning system adds a safe-exit feature that sounds an alert if you're about to open your door into approaching traffic. The X1 now finally supports wireless Android Auto smartphone connectivity it joins wireless Apple CarPlay functionality on the standard features list. The BMW X1 is available with loads of new tech. Removing the iDrive controller does open up the center console, so the new X1 feels spacious and has better storage than before. BMW suggests using voice commands, and while they do work well, it feels like a crutch for a somewhat flawed design. ![]() The system is responsive and packs a lot of features, but the menu system can feel cumbersome to navigate and requires taking your eyes off the road for longer than we'd prefer. This has been a BMW infotainment staple for more than 20 years, but its removal in the new X1 means you have to use the touchscreen or robust voice controls to access the system's features and settings. We've seen this system in recent BMW models like the all-electric iX and flagship 7 Series sedan.Īlso of note is that - unlike the iX and 7 Series - the X1 no longer has an iDrive controller knob. Instead, these functions are all contained within menus and submenus of the infotainment system. The center stack is also cleaned up, so there aren't several tiers of climate controls and preset buttons. You get a singular glass enclosure for the 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and 10.7-inch touchscreen, with the latter angled toward the driver. It competes in the compact luxury crossover class, going up against models like the Mercedes-GLA, the Audi Q3, and the Lexus NX.BMW's latest interior design ethos is also on full display in the new X1. Q: Is BMW X1 a car or SUV?Īccording to the German automaker, the BMW X1 is a Sports Activity Vehicle rather than an SUV or car. The BMW is an entry-level model that competes in the compact luxury-crossover segment. Right from the base model, every 2023 BMW X1 comes with the xDrive all-wheel drive as standard. FAQ Q: Does the BMW X1 have all-wheel drive? Thus, if a sporty driving experience is a necessity whilst retaining comfort, adaptability, and luxury, the 2023 BMW X1 is a top choice. The only other driver-focused SAV comparable to the X1 will be the Jaguar E-Pace, although it offers less torque and comes in at a higher price of $48,000 base. If you aren’t sold on the quirky aesthetic or drivability, other options like the Lexus NX, Mercedes Benz GLA, and Audi Q3 should fill in the gaps. If the most important aspect of your driving experience is handling, the 2023 X1 should be at the top of your list. The BMW X1 is not alone in its segment and other brands do offer alternate options. A front 3/4 shot of a Mercedes-GLA 35 AMG
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