BMW X1 facelift review, test drive and video

BMW addresses the old X1’s issues with refreshed styling, more power and equipment.

Published on Feb 14, 2013 05:22:00 PM

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BMW X1 facelift review, test drive and video

The X1 now makes slightly more power and torque – 181bhp and 38.74kgm of torque. This step-up in power and the closer stacked ratios of the eight-speed box means the X1 hits the 100 kph mark in 8.25seconds, a whole 1.2seconds quicker than before. Peak torque is available from as low as 1750rpm which means the motor pulls effortlessly and acceleration is linear from low engine speeds. The eight-speed auto works brilliantly and is very quick to respond.

That said, the X1’s motor is still quite audible at idle and under hard acceleration. It's only when cruising that the engine settles down to a murmur.

As for the ride, BMW seems to have gone a bit soft at the rear in the interests of passenger comfort. It is pliant and absorbent for the most part but the soft rear suspension set-up results in constant up and down movement over broken surfaces. It’s not uncomfortable, but it’s there.

One of the best things about the old X1 was the driver involvement it offered. This new one is as good and this, despite the switch to an electrically assisted steering setup. The steering is very responsive and gives accurate feedback to the driver at speeds but strangely, is quite heavy at parking speeds.

Overall, the X1 has definitely moved upmarket. BMW has carefully looked at what was lacking in the X1 and addressed those issues pretty comprehensively. It is now a worthy competitor to its only rival in India, the Audi Q3.

Watch video review here