Pros/ Powerful base engine, funky and tech-forward cabin, fun to drive
Cons/ Not much interior storage, no more iDrive rotary dial, low-speed transmission jerkiness.
Bottom Line/ Much better than the outgoing model, the latest X1 has an actual character, and now feels like a real BMW.
Table of contents
2023 BMW X1 Review: First Drive
BMW has shown for decades that compact vehicles don’t have to sacrifice fun, luxury, or prestige.
Cars like the classic E30 3 Series demonstrated it proudly. But even more modern machinery like both generations of the 2 Series coupe, as well as today’s more basic 3ers show that BMW can make a small vehicle that is something special. It’s cars like those that made the first two generations of BMW’s X1 crossover feel less substantial. They wore the kidneys and roundel on the nose, but they never really felt like true BMWs.
Detailed Specs
| Price / | $38,600 |
| Engine / | 2.0-liter turbo 4-cylinder |
| Power / | 241 hp |
| Torque / | 295 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain / | AWD |
| Transmission / | 7DCT |
| Fuel Economy (city/hwy) / | 25 mpg / 34 mpg |
| Cargo Capacity / | 25.7 cu ft. |
Our Final Verdict
BMW X1
3.8| Performance | 8.0 |
| Features | 8.0 |
| Comfort | 7.0 |
| Quality and Styling | 8.0 |
| Value | 7.0 |