BMW GETS IT RIGHT
Fun CUV easy to live with
Producers of fine sports cars are fuelled by their passionate fan base; it’s what drives them to keep raising their own particular bar of excellence.
But automakers can’t subsist on passion alone. It takes sales — a lot of them — to keep their coffers healthy and enable them to keep building those glorious machines. They tread a fine line between cultivating a more mainstream presence to attract more buyers and staying loyal to the fan base that made them what they are.
The problem is that vehicles which appeal to a lot of people often alienate the enthusiasts to whom exclusivity is a big part of the attraction.
Most of the general driving public doesn’t really think about which set of wheels is putting power to the pavement as long as their cars are safe, reliable and offer a modicum of comfort. Underpinning the latest edition of BMW’s X1 luxury compact crossover, the new platform adds the greater flexibility needed to succeed in this most competitive of segments. And because all X1s in Canada will be equipped with BMW’s xDrive allwheel-drive system, up to 100 per cent of the power can be sent to the rear wheels when needed.
Introduced in 2013, the X1 is a relatively new vehicle to receive such a radical makeover. While the previous model was based on the 3 Series passenger sedan, the new X1 rides on the same platform found under the European 2 Series Active Tourer. That’s the same architecture found used in the third-generation Mini, another consolation point for fans worried about its handling.
Gone is the optional 35i, with its straight-six engine; the X1 is now available in a single model with one powertrain. The turbocharged four-cylinder puts out 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It’s mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and, depending upon which trim level you choose, it can be operated with paddle shifters.
The payoff is greater fuel efficiency and a huge increase in utility. Purists take heart: it’s also the same power plant found in Mini’s JCW variants.
The X1 retains basically the same wheelbase, but the shorter nose leaves room for expansion of the cabin space, an all-important consideration in this market. The previous X1, which trailed behind its competitors in usable space, now boasts an additional 85 litres of cargo space, for a total of 505, and that grows to 1,550 L with the rear seats folded down. Where the outgoing model resembled a more carlike wagon, the X1’s taller roofline and xLine-specific 18-inch wheels give it a crossover appearance. Sculpted sheet metal and crisp character lines work well to disguise its height, and chrome wheel-to-wheel trim visually slenderizes its profile. Slanted projector headlights add a menacing scowl to the X1’s face, and their self-levelling and cornering ability are terrific for night driving.
The X1 starts at $38,800, but my tester was a fully loaded X1 xDrive model with the optional M Sport Package ($2,500). Basically an appearance upgrade but with a more firmly tuned suspension, the M Sport package includes paddle shifters and fully adjustable, perforated leather bucket seats that are sublime. Using a combination of the available switches, driver and passenger can dial in enough side bolstering and lumbar support for an almost custom fit. The extra height allows for a 36-millimetre rise in the front seating position for greater visibility. Rear passengers benefit from an extra 37 mm of leg room, and reclining seats which also fold flat at the touch of a button.
The interior is typical for a German automaker: plenty of black leather and subdued instrumentation. Subtle ambient lighting trim on the door panels is a nice touch. The dash layout is straightforward, with the exception of the heated steering wheel switch on the base of the steering column.
The Premium Package ($4,950) brings the Driving Dynamic control found throughout the BMW sports-car lineup, as well as such niceties as the heated steering wheel and Harman Kardon sound system. The driver can choose between Comfort, Sport or Eco Pro to alter steering and throttle response to deliver a brisk, spirited drive, a softer cruise or the most economical fuel consumption possible. Also included is a nicely executed headup display, which can be tailored to show speed or navigation details.
On the road, the X1 dispels any concerns about its front-wheeldrive bias with its handling and a generally planted feel. Vaguely reminiscent of the Mini Countryman, the X1 has less body roll (and none of the squeaks and rattles). During spirited driving, the xDrive system can divert as much torque as needed to either axle, virtually eliminating over and understeer.
Its lightweight chassis results in it feeling quicker than it is and while not as engaging as its predecessor, the X1 is a fun little crossover. The ride can be a bit hard and punishing over rough surfaces, but that can be attributed to the stiff side walls of its standard run-flat tires. The BMW X1 offers more interior space than competitors Audi Q3, Mercedes-Benz GLA and the more expensive Range Rover Evoque.
Far from the pariah the BMW-faithful have made it out to be, the new X1 is a likable little vehicle that’s really easy to live with.