New BMW X1 review, test drive

What is it like on the inside?

One of the advantages of BMW moving form a rear-wheel-drive platform on the old X1 to a front-wheel-drive platform on the new X1 is in interior packaging. And that is most evident when you sit in the back seat. Where space was only just about sufficient in the old X1’s rear seat, there’s a good deal of room in the new X1. There’s plenty of knee room, generous headroom and even improved shoulder room. The rear seat itself scores big for comfort. The seating position is excellent and the cushioning is well judged.

Drivers familiar with the old X1 will find themselves sitting higher here, with a driving position that is more suited to an SUV. Visibility is good and what helps is that the dashboard is nice and low. The dash is typical BMW fare, so it’s neat, clean, uncluttered, but it does look a bit too much like the other cars. Also, while cabin quality on the whole is good, there are a few areas where the X1 could have been better. For instance, on the door pockets, where the plastics are hard, and don’t feel all that premium.

No complaints about this M Sport version’s nicely contoured powered front seats though. They look rich and offer great support. The M-spec three-spoke steering wheel complete with paddle-shifters also adds a great deal of sportiness in here. Speaking of equipment, the M Sport also gets heads-up display, panoramic sunroof and a high-res 8.8-inch display for the i-Drive infotainment system. There’s navigation and onboard music storage too, but sadly no reverse camera.  The lesser xLine trim cars get a smaller 6.5-inch screen for the i-Drive system.

In terms of practicality, the X1 impresses. Its 505-litre boot is a full 85 litres larger than the old X1’s and you also get power fold for the three rear seats. Oh, and under the boot floor sits a proper space saver spare tyre. BMW has been listening to you.