BMW X1 2016, first look and road test in Madrid

BMW has renewed its entry-level model in the SUV range. We’re talking about the X1, one of the oldest BMW models still on sale so far.

With this second generation, the smaller of the X models takes a step forward to position itself as one of the best alternatives among compact premium SUVs.

Exterior design

The exterior design of the X1 has changed completely. Perhaps the previous generation was not the most attractive model in the world. People described it as a “Series 1 on stilts”, due to its styling being too similar to the brand’s compact model. The proportions didn’t help either, with a rear end that looked somewhat “drooping”.

However, in the second generation of the X1 all of this has been refined to result in a true SUV of BMW. The new X1 is fully recognisable as a member of the X family, looking much more attractive and reminding us, to a certain extent, of its older big brother, the X5.

The front adopts the characteristics of the brand’s current models, with elongated light clusters (whose light signature is unmistakable) that fit perfectly with a grille made up of two kidney shapes larger than ever. The lower mouldings alongside the round fog lights at the ends of the bumper enhance the sense of width and sturdiness.

The side profile is that of a more compact and robust vehicle. Both overhangs are now shorter, ribbing has been added to the door and wing panels, and the wheel arches look more square, again adding a sense of robustness. Something similar happens at the rear, with the lights better integrated and a more vertical arrangement of all the visual elements.
Nevertheless, we are talking about a vehicle that is shorter (-15 mm), wider (+23 mm) and taller (+53 mm).

Interior design

Inside, we once again find a radical change from the moment we open the door. The cabin is wider and more spacious, with seats positioned 36 mm higher than those of its predecessor. In the second row there is also almost 3 cm of extra legroom, rising to 6 cm extra in the centre seat, which nevertheless still has a rather bulky transmission tunnel.
The boot also gains capacity, with an improvement of 200 litres with the seats folded down, reaching 1550 litres.

The dashboard design strongly recalls that of the current Series 2 Active and Gran Tourer. It is a more dynamic, fresher design, which abandons the straight, vertical lines of the first generation in favour of a more horizontal atmosphere with several levels that gives a greater sense of fluidity.

The materials used have also taken a step forward. The profusion of soft plastics stands out, as does the use of leather trim for the centre console (optional), as well as the steering wheel, door panels and gear lever. Most of the components, as we said before, come from the Series 2 Active Tourer, such as the steering wheel, instrumentation, climate control module and gear lever.

Dynamics and driving

The new X1 represents a notable change insofar as it is built on a completely different platform. The X1 now joins the family of front-wheel-drive models, a change which, although it did not please everyone at first, is being accepted without fuss by buyers and the brand’s followers.

In this way, the second-generation X1 offers four diesel engines of 116, 150, 190 and 231 CV, and two petrol engines of 136 and 231 CV. All engines except the two most powerful 231 CV units can be combined with front-wheel drive (sDrive), while all-wheel drive variants (xDrive) are also available, which act as front-wheel drive until the driven wheels lose traction.

During our first contact, we were able to drive the xDrive 20d version paired with the 8-speed Steptronic automatic gearbox. Without a doubt, this is one of the sportiest, most dynamic and most capable combinations in the whole range. The 190 CV diesel engine is a marvel in terms of performance and consumption, pulling strongly from low revs all the way past 4500 rpm.

Of course, there is nothing new to say about the 8-speed gearbox from BMW. Simply put, it is the best in its class, with extremely quick shifts combined with exceptional smoothness. A 10 in that respect. In corners, the X1 keeps that BMW touch, with direct, communicative steering and a very well-judged balance between firmness and comfort. Perhaps it has lost the character of predominantly rear-wheel drive, but it is something the vast majority of potential customers won’t even notice.

Range and equipment

The new X1 will reach our market with comprehensive standard equipment that includes items such as 17″ alloy wheels, tyre pressure monitoring, light and rain sensors, electrically folding and adjustable exterior mirrors, or a third year of warranty.

In addition, buyers can choose one of the four packs the brand makes available, a policy increasingly widespread within the German firm and one that makes things much easier for customers. The entry-level trim is called Advantage, costs 2,150€ and includes items such as LED headlights with extended content, the navigation system, cruise control or the rear parking assistance system.

The next step up is the Sport or xLine trims, both at the same price (3,950€). While the first adds a sportier touch (sports seats, lighting pack, “Race” fabric upholstery, 18″ alloy wheels), the second takes a more rugged approach, with leather and “Cross Track” fabric upholstery, specific mouldings and an exclusive front grille.

Finally, there is the M Sport trim, which for a price of 5,950€ offers the full M package both inside and out (fabric and Alcantara upholstery, specific mouldings, 18″ wheels, sports seats, M sport suspension, M sport steering wheel, M aerodynamic pack) plus a lighting pack.

X1 prices start at 30,950€ for the sDrive 16d version, rising to 45,500€ for the xDrive 25i. The more interesting versions include the sDrive 18i at 31,900€, as well as the sDrive 18d (32,400€) and 20d (37,900€). If you opt for all-wheel drive, you will have the xDrive 18d for 35,900€ and the xDrive 20d for 39,900€.

Technical specifications of this car

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