The BMW X1 is now in its third generation, with the first two generations being somewhat underwhelming. Does this new iteration remedy this? We drove one recently to find out!
The latest BMW X1 was launched in the local market earlier this year and promises better quality, practicality and improved efficiency. We received the X1 in 18i M Sport guise to test recently.
Styling
The X1 is perhaps the best iteration of the brand’s large kidney grille treatment, managing to look proportional while adding a genuine presence to the look of BMW’s smallest SUV. Both the side and the rear profile, to this writer’s eyes at least, are well executed and demonstrate the design direction the brand is taking with its products going forward.
Interior and space
The interior is where we were most impressed with the latest X1, with logical ergonomics, easy-to-use systems, a solid general fit and finish paired with solid material quality, making this cabin so impressive; in fact, it made the X3 we drove recently feel dated. The infotainment system appears to have been plucked from the updated 3 Series, with a curved slap-style set-up which houses two screens, one for infotainment, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality and the other a digitised instrument cluster that is configurable. The X1 also features a wireless mobile phone charger that clamps your smartphone, ensuring it remains on charge and secure.
From a practical perspective, the X1 comfortably leads its class, with seating for five occupants, a 450-litre boot and 205mm of ground clearance.
Performance and driving impression
Powering the X1 in this specification is a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine that produces 115kW and 230Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox that sends power to the front wheels. While the X1 lacks the distinctive drive quality associated with traditional BMW products, its front-wheel drive architecture has allowed for the aforementioned room to be freed up in the cabin. The driving experience itself is more refined, with an emphasis on low NVH levels and ride comfort, even if the latter is compromised slightly by the M Sport package, which lowers the ride height marginally and, in the case of our press car, adds 19-inch alloy wheels with 245/45 section tyres.
While dynamics are not high on the list of priorities with this model, it doesn’t fall to pieces when confronted by a corner, but is not what we’d call engaging. This 18i model, with its three-cylinder engine and dual-clutch gearbox, can feel less refined when pushing on, with the gearbox sometimes slow to respond to inputs, while the inherent imbalance of the three-pot motor can be felt when exploiting the upper echelons of the rev-range. On the flip side, the little engine has a solid 230Nm available from just 1 500 r/min, so with efficiency and restraint in mind, the X1, when driven appropriately, provides an excellent premium crossover driving experience.
Safety
The X1 range was crash-tested in 2012 by the Euro NCAP programme. It achieved a 5-Star rating with 86% for adult occupant safety, 89% for child occupant safety, 76% for pedestrian safety and 92% for its safety assistance systems.
Fuel consumption
BMW claims this X1 derivative will consume petrol at a rate of 6.5 L/100km; however, our week with the model yielded a figure of 7.8 L/100km, which is respectable for a vehicle of this type.
Pricing
The X1 in 18i M Sport guise was priced at R828 045 before options, making it competitive when looking at rivals from Audi and Mercedes-Benz, who have options lists that are equally lengthy and costly. X1 models come with a 5-year/100 000km maintenance plan.
Verdict
The latest X1 is a massive leap in the right direction for the BMW brand, which now appears to have the know-how for producing desirable premium crossover SUVs. This X1 manages the tricky balancing act of preserving the brand’s identity while providing a practical product that appeals to the right target market.
Keyword: BMW X1 sDrive 18i M Sport (2023) Review