BMW X1 · photos, packages and modifications

The BMW X1 has low profile tires and a squat stance and for this reason, it is not an obvious 4x4 and instead, it is more of a crossover. Hence, the small X model, which does not lose its composure even through the twistiest roads, has the ability to corner in the same way as other BMW. xDrive versions are ideal for off- roading that is more rigorous because they have proper four-wheel drive while Standard sDrive models are ideal for rear wheel drive. In a market that has many stylish crossovers, it has been able to stay fresh thanks to the light revisions to its nose and body. The base model is worth looking at because it mixes a great drive and an impressive economy and in effect, it makes the Audi Q3 and Land Rover Range Rover Evoque less effective. The X1 range now has a little more personality and various styling upgrades thanks to the introduction of two new trim levels to the range Sport and xLine by the recent facelift.

Although the X1 received a slight mid-life facelift in 2012, its initial arrival was in 2009. The designers made it more appealing by removing its creases and in effect, many people still recognize it as the smallest all-wheel drive BMW. A bolder look that has a stronger presence in the market has replaced the black trim and awkward bumper designs. As compared to the larger Volvo XC60, the X1, which deserves the entire blue and white propeller, is a more appealing brand thanks to the BMW badge that enables it to rank higher as than an Audi Q3. Although some of the material especially the storage box on the center console still has a low rent look and feel, the previous model is better on the inside because of the redesigned center console.

The X1 works better on the road as compared to the way it does off just like the BMW. It offers a lot of grip and does not roll a lot because the previous generation does not touch its chassis. Although the new eight-speed auto is excellent, the six speed manual gearbox, which is standard, is effective. Its overtaking power is effortless because it works perfectly with the 25d 2.0 liter diesel engine. However, the cabin experiences intrusion by road noise when the speeds are higher and idle owing to the production of rough sounds by the X1 18d. Although it is not as composed and comfortable as the Audi Q3, whose price is the same, the X1 has to work harder in town when steering at low speeds.

Thanks to its relative exclusivity, the X1 does not appear in the Driver Power survey. However, the X5, which is its big brother, ranks 36th. Although the Range Rover Evoque and Audi Q3 are relative novelties, they should compete fairly with the X1's. Adaptive headlights and a reversing camera, which are useful equipment, are not mandatory while traction control and airbags for rear and front passengers are a necessity. Just like the Range Rover and Audi, the BMW is very safe because it ranks highly in the Euro NCAP crash tests. However, it may not be ideal for wet or slippery roads as compared to front and four-wheel drive cars just like all the other rear drive models.

The X1 is the most practical in class because thanks to its 420-liter boot, the Audi has an additional 40 liters more that it does while the Range Rover has 155 liters more than it does. However, its owners have 1,350 liters at their disposal because its load area changes when they fold down its rear seats. Three full sized adults can fit in the back because there is room that compromises only of a set of small rear doors and high central transmission tunnels. Unlike many crossovers, the X1 has a comfortable low driving position up front and in effect, its raised ride height does not offer any real benefits. It is difficult to reverse it in town because of its thick C-pillars and small rear screen.