Beautiful Beemer
Impressive X1 is bigger, better and hard to beat after magical makeover
Some cars are ugly ducklings and the BMW X1 used to be one of them.
But that’s no longer the case as the new version has transformed the model into a beautiful swan.
When it comes to makeovers, this is a big success story. Up against the likes of the Audi Q3 and Mercedes GLA, this really needed to cut the mustard and this new Beemer is fantastic.
Now sharing engineering aspects with the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer, the new X1 is bigger and wider than before and looks more like the compact SUV it’s meant to be.
Two inches higher and just under an inch wider might not sound like a huge change but it has made a big impact on space inside the cabin.
The car looks incredible on the outside. The bodywork is sleek and stylish and the increased ride height gives it better road presence.
The inter ior is packed with technology, built with top-end quality materials and has noticeably more head and leg room for all occupants than the previous model.
The windows are large, giving a bright and airy feel.
There are plenty of storage cubby holes and the boot doesn’t disappoint either.
The space is adaptable and useful thanks to a false floor and easy-tofold rear seats.
The new X1 a lso switches from rear to front wheel drive, with xDrive models offering an all-wheel drive system.
Standard levels of equipment are excellent and include sat nav, rear parking sensors, air conditioning and a powered tailgate.
My model was also kitted out with options such as cruise control, park assist, reversing camera, panoramic glass roof and electric front seats with memory function to name just a few. But these can send the price soaring – by £ 8000 in my model’s case. On the road, the drive experience is a joy. The steering is much lighter than it was previously and it is sharp and responsive. I love the raised ride height and the fantastic view this gives you of the road ahead. The cabin is quiet – even on the motorway. There are several trim levels to choose from and a range of diesel and petrol engine choices. So there really is something to suit everyone’s needs. The X1 isn’t cheap but, when i t comes to premium compact SUVs, I think it is hard to beat. I loved the new X1 and, if you take one for a spin, I reckon you will too.