BMW X1 - TopCarNews

BMW X1 (2015 – present) | Expert Rating [hide]

Summary

The BMW X1 is a mid-sized SUV/crossover, that sits underneath the larger X3 in the BMW SUV range. The current model is the second generation, which arrived in the UK in late 2015 and received a mid-life facelift in late 2019.

Unlike the original X1, which was based on the BMW 3 Series and primarily rear-wheel drive, the second-generation model actually shares its platform with the current Mini Countryman and Clubman, as well as the new BMW 1 Series, and is therefore a primarily front-wheel drive vehicle.

Originally available with petrol and diesel engines, the X1 is now also available with a plug-in hybrid drivetrain. This version launched in the UK just before the nationwide lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic, so availability may currently be restricted.

The BMW X1 has received generally good reviews from the UK motoring media, and is considered a substantial improvement over the previous model. As of December 2021, its overall Expert Rating of 70% puts it in the top half of its class based on 20 UK reviews, but it’s still quite a long way behind the class-leading Volvo XC40.

In a 2020 What Car? survey of the 50 most reliable cars in the UK up to eight years old, the petrol-engined versions of the BMW X1 ranked an excellent 15th place. Diesel versions, however, didn’t make the top 50.

Key specifications

Body style: Small SUV/crossoverEngines: petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid
Price: From £29,455 on-road

Launched: Autumn 2015Last updated: Spring 2020
Replacement due: TBA

Image gallery

Media reviews

Reviews, road test and comparisons from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.

Auto Express

Model reviewed: Range overviewScore: 8 / 10“The BMW X1 is a small crossover that offers style, fun driving and a premium feel in an attractive package”
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Model reviewed: 1.5-litre petrol/electric plug-in hybrid xDrive25e M SportScore: 7 / 10“The plug-in hybrid system of this xDrive25e not only delivers the strongest performance of the BMW X1 range, but also the best refinement, while maintaining decent ride and handling and (almost) all of the standard car’s practicality.”
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Auto Trader

Model reviewed: Range overviewScore: 8 / 10“The second-generation BMW X1 builds on the strengths of its predecessor and reduces the shortfalls to a point where they’re almost negligible. With grown-up driving manners and plenty of practicality, the X1 is worthy of a place on your shopping list.”
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Autocar

Model reviewed: Range overviewScore: 8 / 10“Although its performance is strong, it’s not outstandingly so and the same is true of its real-world fuel economy. The BMW X1’s handling is spry but it isn’t a desperately slick or engaging car to drive. And, for a premium-brand car, it still leaves a fair amount to be desired on refinement.”
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Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel automatic xDrive25d xLineScore: 7 / 10“The xDrive25d is a quality product with good everyday versatility, no doubt. It also possesses a good turn of speed, thanks to the urgent qualities of its engine, and is quite engaging to drive on the right roads.”
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Car

Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel automatic xDrive 25dScore: 8 / 10“The original BMW X1 sold like particularly hot cakes, despite not actually being all that brilliant a car in the cold light of day. The all-new successor is actually a very decent vehicle, with fewer compromises on packaging, dynamics or style.”
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Car Keys

Model reviewed: Range overviewScore: 8 / 10“The BMW X1 is a really excellent crossover, even against such great competition. It drives well, has a spacious and excellent interior, and proves that premium quality doesn’t have to cost the earth to run.”
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Carbuyer

Model reviewed: Range overviewScore: 8 / 10“The BMW X1 is an economical, practical and good-to-drive compact SUV that’s better-looking than the model it replaced”
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Carwow

Model reviewed: Range overviewScore: 9 / 10“The BMW X1 is a fun-to-drive and well-built alternative to the likes of the Volvo XC40 and Audi Q3; just be ready to pay extra for plenty of desirable options.”
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Evo

Model reviewed: Range overviewScore: 7 / 10“The new BMW X1 is greatly improved over its predecessor and can be considered a serious contender against its rivals. As the premium and small crossover market continues to grow, BMW had to get its new X1 right second time around.”
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Heycar

Model reviewed: Range overviewScore: 7 / 10“The BMW X1 is a sporty small SUV that’s fun to drive, has a practical, spacious interior and a high-quality cabin. It’s a shame that some of its options are so expensive, but if you are willing to splash out, then you’ll end up with one of the very best cars in this class.”
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Honest John

Model reviewed: Range overviewScore: 8 / 10“There are dozens of crossovers to choose from these days, whether in the form of popular mainstream models like the Nissan Qashqai or more luxurious alternatives such as the Audi Q3. But even in the face of some very serious competition, the BMW X1 is a very impressive car indeed.”
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Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel automatic xDrive25d xLine“While the BMW X1 might be showing its age slightly, it’s still an extremely good alternative to the Audi Q3, Volvo XC40 and Range Rover Evoque.”
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Motoring Research

Model reviewed: Range overviewScore: 8 / 10“Not to be confused with the original and rather lacklustre BMW X1, the current car is one of the most desirable in its class.”
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Motors.co.uk

Model reviewed: Range overviewScore: 8 / 10“For families, the BMW X1 is an expensive but good option to choose as there is a large amount of space, a good safety rating and ISOFIX points on the rear seats. Although other cheaper crossovers will do a similar job, the X1 can certainly be described as a good family car.”
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Parkers

Model reviewed: Range overviewScore: 7.8 / 10“Entry-level BMW SUV is great to drive and looks sharp.”
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The Sun

Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel automatic xDrive 20d“It’s a Beemer and THAT badge always guarantees a spot in your final five. I’m not sure about those X1 puddle lamps, though. Classy rivals include the Q3, Mercedes GLA and Range Rover Evoque. The Q3 is cheaper, but it has less standard kit. I’d also consider a fully loaded Kia Sportage.”
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The Sunday Times

Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel xDrive 25dScore: 4 / 10“The beancounters’ gift to box‑haulers” (Jeremy Clarkson)
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Model reviewed: Range overviewScore: 8 / 10“Capable, covetable compact 4×4”
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Top Gear

Model reviewed: Range overviewScore: 7 / 10“By going transverse-engined, the BMW X1 has become technically less distinctive, but more useful in the real world.”
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What Car?

Model reviewed: Range overviewScore: 8 / 10“The BMW X1 is good to drive, classy inside and hugely practical. It isn’t as quiet nor as comfortable as the best family SUVs, but it’s a fine buy if you fancy something a little more sporty.”
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Which?

Model reviewed: Range overview“The BMW X1 is a strong addition to the crossover class. Vastly improved over the outgoing model – particularly in interior quality and refinement – it impresses in most respects, offering everything you’d expect of a four-wheel-drive car from a premium marque.”
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Safety rating

Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

Overall rating: 5 stars
Date tested: December 2017

90%

ADULT OCCUPANT

87%

CHILD OCCUPANT

74%

VULNERABLE ROAD USERS

77%

SAFETY ASSIST

Read full Euro NCAP review

Eco rating

Model tested: 18d 4×2 manual
Date tested: February 2019

9.4 / 10

CLEAN AIR INDEX

5.8 / 10

ENERGY EFFICIENCY INDEX

Read full Green NCAP review

The rating above is for the BMW X1 18d diesel manual two-wheel-drive model, which was assessed in 2019 and earned a three-star rating. Green NCAP also tested the X1 18s 18d diesel automatic four-wheel-drive model in February 2021, awarding it a two-star rating. We are currently updating our Euro NCAP database, as the organisation changed its rating system and we need to change our database accordingly to be able to display the new scores.

These ratings only apply to the models listed above, and do not imply similar ratings for other engine and gearbox combinations in the range.

Awards

Trophies, prizes and awards that the BMW X1 has received

2021

Business Motoring Awards – Best Small SUV
Business Car Awards – Best Premium Medium SUV

2020

Business Car Awards – Best Premium Medium SUV

2018

Company Car Today CCT100 Awards – Best Premium Crossover

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