Driving the BMW X1 is like reconnecting with an old friend who has retained their youth and vigour.
You love them, they’re great – and they look younger and better than ever. That’s my experience with the latest model. Only 78km new, yet familiar enough to jump straight in and get going.
This is a small SUV that acts like a medium-sized one. It’s spacious, but easy to drive, especially around town and in tight places. Externally, it’s handsome with attractive rims and defined lines that deserve a double take. The grille, with its striking double-kidney design, is suggestive of a larger vehicle. The good looks continue with attractive details and lights, and then there’s the practicality of the built-in roof rack.
The X1 features a function screen and also retains quality physical controls for ventilation, lights, and other functions. The dash, restrained yet functional, provides a choice of content from navigation to media, so with the heads up display the driver can stay focused on the job at hand. Voice control enables most non-driving functions to be requested following the ‘Hey BMW’ activation phrase.
This model is the sDrive 18i, which has a 1.5-litre, 3-cylinder engine driving the front wheels. This engine is a honey: perky, silent, and responsive. It’s not a sports car but is not lacking across urban, highway, and intercity usage. Steering and handling are precise. The pointy front end and high grip level again give the confidence of a larger vehicle, while the brakes have a good feel – akin to a sports car. It has all the assistance and safety functions you might need, from lane holding to responsive cruise control, making it a pleasure to pilot in any setting. Driving modes include Sport, Efficient and Personal for further control.
This car is full of top-of-the-range features, like wireless phone connection and charging, all-electric adjustable seats and more. The BMW camera package is class-leading and accurate, allowing you to get out of small spaces with ease, and if you need more help, a reversing assistant is available.
It’s an effortless car to drive and use. BMW tend to over-deliver, leaving a smile on your face and the satisfaction of beating expectations. This applies to performance, looks, and usability. This car is a treasure. Even though the X1 is the newest in the X lineup, it feels like an old friend.
BMW X1 starts from $76,100. The car shown also features the M Sport Package and optional 20” rims.
