BREAKAWAY

BMW takes a new tack with its 2016 X1 xDrive28i, but the marque’s inherent attributes remain intact

BMW, that diehard purveyor of rear-wheel-drive performance machines, has capitulated. In redesigning its entry-level “sports activity vehicle” (elsewhere known as CUVs, or crossover utility vehicles), the Bavarians admitted to its advantages, and created a front-wheel-drive/allwheel-drive platform for its all-new X1.

The previous rendition of the X1 was basically a raised wagon (think Subaru Outback) based on the compact rear-drive 3-series vehicles. While it delivered sporty performance, it suffered from a cramped cabin with tight rear-seat leg room and limited cargo space.

So going to a front-wheel-drive design, with a transversely mounted engine layout, is a simple way to maximize interior volume.

In a vehicle such as a CUV, increased cabin capacity is a fair trade-off for whatever handling deficits are incurred compared to a rear-wheel-drive setup. Fortunately, BMW’s platform engineers know a thing or two about suspension tuning, and have done a fine job of coming up with a nicely balanced vehicle.

All 2016 X1 xDrive28i models feature allwheel drive (front-drive X1s are joining the lineup as 2017 models) for maximum grip in low-traction situations (think rain, snow, unpaved roads).

Powering the X1 is BMW’s superb 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, which does duty in a number of vehicles in the marque’s lineup, as well as some MINI Coopers. (In fact, the 2016 MINI Cooper Clubman also shares much of its underpinnings with the X1.)

In this application, it cranks out a healthy 228 horsepower/258 pound-feet of torque, delivering lively acceleration and fuel economy. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts crisply, although occasionally hesitates to downshift.

The cabin exudes an upscale ambiance, with high-grade materials and handsome detailing. The short-cushioned front buckets, though, are rather shy of under-leg support. But special kudos to the CUV’s excellent outward visibility.

Underway, the X1 drives, well, like a BMW ought to drive, with sharp (if a bit numb) steering, powerful brakes, excellent handling and an overall solidity that only comes from superb engineering and vault-like build quality.

So although the X1 has adopted an iconoclastic approach to its layout, it remains a BMW at heart.