BMW X1 test drive and review

We have just got our hands on the all-new BMW X1, the new compact SUV. Here are the first impressions of what is quite an impressive SUV.

In flesh, the X1 looks like a grown-up 3-series, slightly larger and slightly taller. However what it is unequivocally not is a full-sized SUV. It’s attractive too, with those large headlights, the kidney grille and the nicely sculpted sides. And the rear is really attractive as well.

Built on the same platform as the 3-series Touring or estate version, this compact SUV however has the trappings of a luxury product. It has the fit, the finish, and, in places, fantastic attention to detail.

Step into the X1 and the cabin looks familiar to that of the 3-series saloon. And that’s no bad thing. The centre console, steering wheel and the dials look very similar to the 3-series saloon and there are plenty of soft-feel surfaces as well. However, a couple of hard plastic surfaces exist, and encountering these sometimes lowers the perceived value of the X1.

Ergonomically it is sound and the driving position is fine. You tend to sit somewhere between the height of a normal saloon and a conventional SUV and the X1 seems relatively low for even a soft-roader. Space in the back is surprisingly good and legroom seems to mirror the 3-Series saloon, while there's plenty of headroom and ample boot space on offer too. Access to the rear seat is a bit difficult though.

The car we are driving is the top-of-the-line diesel, the 174bhp sDrive20d. First impressions from behind the wheel are that the X1 doesn’t feel as smooth or as responsive as the 320d. However, the slug of torque that makes this motor so effective is present here as well. And though this motor does not rev as high as that of the saloon, there is plenty of power and performance with 200kph there for the asking whenever you want it.

The hydraulic steering system feels even heavier than a 3-series. Feedback though is very detailed and clear and in terms of handling, it feels like you are driving a taller and a softer 3-series with fair bit of body roll. That cohesiveness and the flawless driving manners that make the 3-series feel so special are present in abundance.

Ride quality is good too. It is soft and pliant at city speeds, the suspension absorbs a lot of the road, and this despite the fact that the X1 rides on run-flat tyres. However, some knobbiness remains. Up the speed though, and it improves somewhat, plus the chassis control is fairly tight for a taller car, so the X1 turns with sufficient enthusiasm and a fair degree of poise.

The sDrive 18i petrol variant that produces 147bhp, however, feels a bit underpowered. The bottom end feels weak and to get the best out of the motor, you need to keep the engine buzzing over 4000rpm.

Should you buy one? The simple answer is a yes. Just the right size for urban traffic, beautifully engineered, fun to drive, comfortable and well built, this car has everything but surplus space and imposing size. Priced at Rs 22 lakh for the petrol and Rs 22.9 lakh for the base diesel variant, the X1 comes across as fantastic value.

However, the specification for these models is very basic. You get multi-functional steering wheel and rain-sensing wipers, but i-Drive system, sunroof and Xenon lights are left out. The model tested here is much better specified and has much more of a luxury car feel to it. It’s more expensive at Rs 32.50lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), but is still decent value. For your money, you get a cross between a BMW 3-Series and an SUV for roughly Honda CR-V money. And who doesn’t want that?