New BMW X1 review, test drive

A bit about the mechanicals first. For now, the X1 is available only in diesel form and uses BMW’s latest 2.0-litre, four-cylinder diesel engine. Peak power is an impressive 187bhp and max torque is a strong 40.7kgm. An eight-speed automatic gearbox is standard fit, but buyers have the option to choose between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, the two obviously available at different price points. In normal driving conditions, the xDrive system powers the front wheels, but when needed, it can send 100 percent of the torque to the rear axle. So how does it all come together?  

The engine’s alert from 1,500rpm on, has got a strong mid-range and will even rev happily to 5,000rpm with the gearbox in manual mode. There’s great access to power and you really won’t be left wanting for more anywhere in the rev range. Of course, the engine feels its liveliest best in Sport, but Comfort is quick too. As with all modern BMWs, the quick-shifting gearbox deserves praise here. It really does bring the best out of the engine.

What further strengthens the X1’s case is ride comfort. The X1’s suspension is set up on the softer side and that’s good, because it absorbs all the surface imperfections well and keeps you well isolated from the happenings underneath. The softness of the suspension doesn’t mean the dynamics are bad, because this is a very well balanced car. In fact, BMW claims the new X1 boasts a 50:50 front-rear weight distribution. It’s a keen handler and not that much behind the rear-wheel-driven original X1 in this department. Sure, the new X1 doesn’t quite offer the same old-school connection you got in the old one, but this is still a very exciting SUV to drive. Of the standout elements, one is the steering. It feels precise, good off-centre and it’s well weighted too. The low-speed heft from the old X1’s rack is gone, which makes the new BMW a whole lot easier to live with.