Owners’ views

BMW X1 xdrive 23d auto

Brilliant to drive and has that superb BMW build quality. My X1 can handle towing easily; the acceleration is excellent with a caravan sitting behind, and while the economy suffers in such circumstances, that’s to be expected. The twinturbo engine gives you plenty of torque when you need it and it has no trouble with hills or motorways. Ted

BMW X1 xdrive 20d

After purchasing my new X1 I decided to upgrade the caravan to a Bailey Pageant S6 Burgundy. The X1 is brilliant: it tows like a dream and suffers no ill effects from side winds. It’s also excellent at standing starts on hills. A Newman

BMW X1 xdrive 18d auto

I tow a 2002 Abbey Aventura 320 (1360kg MTPLM) with my X1, so the weight ratio is spot on. The eight-speed automatic gearbox is a delight and gives fantastic performance. On a recent trip, I towed from South Wales to North Devon via the notorious A361 (which is a killer for economy) and returned 28mpg+. Is this my best tow car? Well, it is certainly up there. I’ve towed the same caravan with a Land Rover Freelander, a Ford Mondeo and a Saab 9-3. The BMW is as surefooted as the Freelander and as powerful as the Saab. Driving solo, there is no competition. Tim