BMW X1 (2023) first drive review - all-new X1 boldly embraces change

BMW's successful X1 range has been completely reworked and given a simplified interior to match the technology that has been included. With two engines and two trims for the South African market to start with, there's an X1 for everyone.

The new BMW X1, model code U11, is the third generation of the popular compact luxury crossover. Having first been released in 2009, the BMW X1 has enjoyed much success as the entry point into BMW SAV (Sport Activity Vehicle) ownership. The all-new third generation improves on the recipe in nearly all areas, presenting a more than agreeable offering with a pleasant balance between quality and affordability.

BMW fanatics will be quick to respond that the U11 X1 has indeed been around for a few months however, this is the first time the South African media and buying public at large are being given access to it. International supply chain restrictions have seen the right-hand-drive models deprioritised and as such South Africa was made to wait. The wait has been worth it though.

bmw x1 (2023) first drive review - all-new x1 boldly embraces change

Bigger and bolder

This new third-generation X1 is marginally larger than the outgoing model, growing by 53 mm in length, 24 mm in width, and 44 mm in height. This allowed for the BMW engineers to create more space in the cabin and improve the cargo-carrying capabilities of the X1. The wheelbase has been extended by 22 mm and widened by 31 mm, improving the straight-line stability and cornering prowess of the UKL2 platform.

The new BMW X1 abandons many of the softer lines in favour of hard edges and distinct swage lines, drawing inspiration from the BMW iX. Sharp, angular LED headlights carry the inverted L daytime running light elements and draw your attention to the large kidney grilles that, while considerably larger than in the exiting F48 variant, have thankfully not been styled after those found on the X7.

You can get the new X1 in one of two flavours; xLine and M Sport trim with the latter sporting gloss black detailing and an aggressive front bumper with large vertical air skirts flanking the large, honeycomb central air dam. The xLine trim offers a slightly softer approach with satin silver accents for a touch of class. The M Sport trim option sees the X1 fitted with a set of striking 20-inch wheels whereas the xLine wears a more sensible size.

The rear of the X1 is immediately recognisable and the one angle where it will be the easiest to discern between this and the slightly larger X3. The LED taillights protrude inwards into the tailgate, supporting the narrow rear glass while the rear diffuser element draws inspiration from the front apron and, on M Sport trims, is finished off in gloss black.

Tech-fest interior

BMW has taken a simplified approach to the design of the interior, leading me to believe that the full-electric iX1 (which is due in Q2 2023 in South Africa) was the first consideration of the overall design and the engineers simply adjusted it to accommodate the internal combustion engine (ICE) variants. This means that you get a future-forward approach to the cabin with the omission of the traditional gear selector, replaced instead with a toggle switch for gear selection. The centre console is of the floating kind, similar to what we’ve seen on the BMW iX but the crowing glory if the curved screen display that houses BMW iDrive OS8, albeit without the iDrive controller – all part of the simplification process.

Many of the controls have been moved to the infotainment screen section of the wide, curved display but BMW ensures us that the ones that still require a tactile interface; things like volume control, hazard switches, and a few others, remain as buttons or knobs. The new X1 is also packed with a comprehensive array of driver assistance systems and personalization options, the obligatory USB-C charging ports and a wireless charging system.

The overall fit and finish are rather good for an entry-level offering and certainly are befitting of the premium classification that it is given, both by BMW and by the price tag. The bump in size means that you get a generous 540-litre boot, expandable to 1 600-litres when you fold the 40:20:40 rear seats flat.

Engine options

A single diesel and one petrol engine are currently on offer in the new BMW X1. Both are dubbed ’18’ followed by either an ‘i’ or a ‘d’. Both are only available in 7-speed automatic with a Steptronic dual-clutch system in play and both send power to the front wheels only.

The X1 sDrive18i is powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder engine that produces 115 kW and 230 Nm torque while the BMW X1 sDrive18d employs a 4-cylinder turbodiesel of 2.0-litre capacity. The output from this unit is 110 kW but the 360 Nm makes this the preferred engine in my opinion. The petrol offering feels the pinch in certain circumstances and one is always just wanting a little bit extra from it. Not so the case in the diesel model.

The drive

I’ve mentioned that the X1 sDrive18i feels a little underpowered while the diesel is the preferred option, but my bigger revelation is that the line trim is the one that drives better. The large 20-inch wheels of the M Sport package has a tendency to track and tramline on roads that are less than ideal (which means most roads in South Africa) and the secondary ride feedback is a little more pronounced. It’s not a deal breaker, either of those observations, but something to keep in mind. The smaller wheel and tyres on the xLine derivative iron out all of these issues.

The overall fit, finish and execution of the new BMW X1 are wonderful. It feels like a bespoke product and not a mix-and-match of a parts bin raid. This makes it feel like a model that stands on its own two feet (or four tyres rather) and genuinely welcomes you into the brand. The interior is cosy but spacious and well-suited for family use. The styling is attractive and the engine options and execution of all driver systems are rather well-considered and well-executed.