2022 BMW X1 Review
Overview
THEY grow up so fast, don’t they?
SUVs these days are bigger, more sophisticated and better connected than ever before – the entry offering from BMW, the X1, showing more than most how far the Bavarian brand’s smallest SUV has come.
The X1 has grown so much, in fact, that not only is it now significantly larger than its predecessor, but it is also mere millimetres smaller than the original X3.
Launched in 2004, that model measured 4565mm in length, 1853mm in width, 1674mm in height and rode on a 2795mm wheelbase.
By way of contrast, the new X1 measures 4500mm long (-65mm), 1845mm wide (-8mm) and 1642mm high (-32mm). It also offers between 540-1600 litres of cargo space, just 10 litres shy of the current-generation X3 and Audi Q5, and between 35-50 litres more than the outgoing X1.
Compared to its predecessor the new X1 is 53mm longer, 24mm wider and 44mm taller, and features a 22mm increase in wheelbase – a big jump by, err, any measure.
On the scales – and in proving the difference modern construction techniques play in not only improving safety but also fuel efficiency and vehicle dynamics – the new X1 (all-wheel drive) weighs 1595kg, or 170kg less than that first X3.
BMW says the use of aluminium, carbon-fibre reinforced plastic, high-tensile steel and other lightweight materials have pulled mass from non-critical areas of the new X1 compared with its predecessor, including the bonnet (-10kg), body (-8kg), wheels (-12kg) and door carriers (-2kg) to name but a few.
Changes to the X1 are not only related to size alone. This vehicle is genuinely new, with heavily revised powertrains, a glistening new electrical architecture – which brings with it the latest in connectivity and safety technologies – and a substantially improved level of space and comfort for up to five passengers.
Under the bonnet, BMW says the 1.5-litre three-cylinder and 2.0-litre four-cylinder engines comprise up to 90 per cent new or improved components. Power and torque figures for the pair grow to 115kW/230Nm and 150kW/300Nm respectively – up 12kW/10Nm and 9kW/20Nm.
Fuel consumption is heavier than before, with the sDrive18i consuming 6.5 litres per 100km (+1.1L/100km), and the xDrive20i 7.2L/100km against the outgoing all-wheel drive’s 7.1L/100km. Acceleration performance is improved, now 9.0 seconds (-0.6 seconds) for the 18i and 7.4 seconds (-0.2 seconds) for the 20i when compared with the F48 series.
Both engine choices are paired as standard to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Now that higher grade offerings are the norm across the X1 range – with xLine and M Sport variants offered – it is a given that technology levels are suitably high.
BMW says the new X1 is equipped with its latest eighth-generation operating system, which places great focus on voice and touchscreen inputs.
Larger screens for the infotainment array, digital instrument panel and comprehensive head-up display system provide detailed yet logical access to an expansive array of connectivity and safety features, while also bringing new vehicle controls to the fore, including a rocker-style gear selector set on the X1’s floating-style centre console.
Further, X1 owners can digitally share their car ‘key’ with family and friends via BMW’s Digital Key Plus system, provided, that is, they possess an Apple iPhone.
Equipment highlights of the new X1 range include dual-zone climate control, adaptive LED headlights, automatic tailgate, BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, BMW Live Cockpit Pro comprising 10.7-inch and 10.25-inch curved widescreen displays, keyless entry and start, anti-dazzle mirror package, remote software updates, adaptive cruise control stop-and-go function, blind-spot monitoring, automated parking, surround view cameras with drive recorder and wireless Android Auto.
Heated seats and a heated steering wheel are available as digital purchase and subscription at $589 and $349 respectively while metallic paint is a cost option. Option packages now offer sensibly bundled features for a set price with Enhancement and M Sport packages available (from $3000).
Priced between $53,900 plus on-road costs for the sDrive18i and $65,900 plus ORCs for the xDrive20i the X1 duo jumps $6000 over the starting point of the outgoing range.
The “small” SUV competes locally with rivals including the Audi Q3 (from $58,400), Jaguar E-Pace (from $71,070), Lexus UX (from $46,085), Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class (from $55,100), Mini Countryman (from $45,000) and Volvo XC40 (from $52,990). All prices before on-roads.
With more than 22,000 examples of the X1 sold in Australia since the model debuted back in November of 2010 – and BMW Australia predicted this generation will be its best-selling yet – we expect great things from the model over the next 12 months, especially when it is joined by the all-electric iX1 in February of next year.
All BMW passenger cars and SUVs are now backed by a five-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty.
Driving Impressions
It genuinely takes a moment to satisfy yourself that the car you’re hopping into is an X1. Not only is it bigger, but it also now has proper SUV proportions, coupled with attractive looks and a far more premium interior. Like we said, all grown up…
There’s a sense of solidity in closing the door behind you and settling into that cosseting Sport seat (now standard). It is equal parts comfortable and supportive, with the usual levels of adjustment to find the just-right seating position.
Despite its novelty, the centre console’s switch array soon feels like you’ve used it for years, and is very intuitive, even when you’re used to a classic “T-bar” gear selector. It also frees up space for a pair of drink holders and a small, lidded compartment that doubles as an armrest. Conversely, the large open storage space beneath the console is clumsy to access and leaves your belongings exposed to prying eyes. We’re not a fan.
But we are a fan of the array of technology on offer – and how intuitive most of it is to use. Simply, if you can operate a smartphone, you’ll have no trouble wrapping your head around the X1. Whether navigating to your favourite restaurant, finding the Audiobook you were in the middle of, or simply requesting the sunroof to open, you can do it all by simply asking the car. Terrific.
Of course, the car can do a lot more than we could ever cover in a quick review. But believe us when we say, if we can use and find the technology in the X1 genuinely useful, you can too.
We also believe the car is better suited to a broader mix of buyers than before – yes, for once it’s not just a sales pitch. The front and rear pews are not only comfortable, but they also accommodate four passengers with ease. We put that theory to the test on departing the launch and got no complaints from the back row – even over some of the choppier roads we encountered on our drive route.
We wouldn’t say that’s entirely by design, though. With two passengers on board the X1 borders on firm, with the usual run-flat tyre noise to go with it. Of course, that firmer ride means the X1 is a nifty handler, and through the undulating twists and turns of the Dandenong Ranges we found ourselves enjoying the SUV far more than we should have, the xDrive20i, in particular, providing tenacious hatch-like handling.
The X1’s steering is fluid and direct with appropriate feedback for the application. We found the brake feel similarly progressive, the pedal stroke bordering on short but with adequate modulation for passenger-friendly soft stops. The braking performance of the X1 – in fitting with its autobahn origins – is suitably athletic, and on test we found no fade or signs of tiring whatsoever.
And while the X1 is not a sportscar by any stretch, it is a consummate performer. Both engines provide tractable pulling power, the 18i being a surprise package that, were it not for its coarse (and decidedly un-BMW-like character) would be more than gutsy enough for any situation.
Step up to the 20i, however, and you’ll find it hard to resist the extra oomph and all-wheel drive traction available. The 2.0-litre engine is a real performer that cooperates well with the seven-speed gearbox to provide brisk acceleration and reassuring overtaking performance… assuming of course you can stump up the additional $12,000 (yikes!) over an 18i.
Which brings us to the big Bavarian elephant in the room: price. Although it is a very thoroughly equipped vehicle that has the badge cachet to match, the X1 is now a pricey car.
Granted, it is no dearer than its many prestige rivals, but it still an exxy offering when you factor in option packages, ongoing subscription costs and the likes.
If you can get your head past that, the X1 is a terrific car. It’s the right size, is well packaged, and delivers solid performance.
Let’s just hope it stops growing for now, so that those wanting a city-sized premium SUV may continue to have the option.
