BMW X1 xDrive 20d 2016 review

The second-generation BMW X1 continues to tick the box as only the Bavarian Motor Works can, with a newly designed interior with significantly more space and versatility, combined with premium surroundings.

Latest-generation four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines and transmissions ensure segment leading performance and efficiency. X1 sDrive 20i and sDrive 18d models have front-wheel drive, while xDrive 25i and xDrive 20d benefit from BMW's intelligent all-wheel-drive system in a new and improved form.

The new X1 trumps its predecessor in standard equipment which includes LED headlights; rear view camera; driving assistant; parking assist and park distance control, front and rear; power tailgate; real time traffic information and BMW ConnectedDrive.

The BMW X1 xDrive 20d sells for $56,500, plus on-road costs. Our test vehicle benefited from the BMW Comfort Package, for $2700, which includes seating extras and anti-dazzle exterior mirrors.

Further optional features included panoramic glass sunroof ($1690), Dakota leather ($1690), metallic paint ($1140) and fine-wood interior trim, taking the price up to $64,120.

Design

Designed by Sydney-born Calvin Luk, the second generation X1 makes a bold statement. Front on, the new X1 has a large, upright BMW kidney grille, three-section lower air intake and characteristic twin circular headlights, with foglamps below.

Flared wheel arches and lines converging in an X-shape into the kidney grille work nicely. Standard on the new X1 are full LED headlights generating illumination that is close to daylight.

Wider looking surfaces are complemented by the use of prestigious material and premium workmanship

Full-LED lighting is repeated at the rear, the L-shaped rear lights producing an even band of light. Their flat outline are intended to emphasise the width of the rear end, with the vertically arranged that fit flush with the roof spoiler, adding a sporting character.

Added vertical dimensions of the new X1 over the previous model mean there is more space for passengers and luggage. Versatility is given a boost with the rear seat coming as standard with a three-section split/folding backrest and with the ability to slide forwards and backwards by 130mm.

The slightly raised seating position, a new interpretation of the BMW hallmark driver-focused cockpit and elegant, wider looking surfaces are complemented by the use of prestigious material and premium workmanship.

Large door pockets offer space for items such as one-litre bottles, plus a selection of other storage areas. A compartment is integrated into the instrument panel on the driver's side. A storage net in the cargo area and one retaining strap on the wall, a stainless steel sill on the loading edge are also included.

Features

BMW continues to promote itself as the maker of drivers' cars and the driver-focused cockpit design that has become a hallmark of the brand's models is carried over in the new X1.

Standard equipment includes a comprehensive list of BMW technologies, including full-LED headlights, Driving Assistant, Parking Assistant and Real Time Traffic Information, in addition to rear view camera and Park Distance Control, front and rear.

The 6.5-inch display with navigation system is integrated into the instrument panel as a freestanding monitor. The xLine package is included as standard, while the M Sport package is available as a cost option.

Engine

Both petrol and diesel engines of the latest BMW X1 provide good performance and fuel efficiency from four cylinders. The unit in the xDrive 20d we tested is mated with an eight-speed automatic transmission with gearshift paddles on the steering wheel. It puts out 140kW and 400Nm of power and torque respectively.

4.3L/100km out on the open road was good

The xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system has been reworked for the X1. The compact system uses an electro-hydraulic multi-plate clutch to distribute drive between the front and rear axle as required.

Safety

The Dynamic Stability Control system includes features such as ABS, Dynamic Traction Control, Cornering Brake Control, Dynamic Brake Control and Brake Assist system, all designed to prevent, or at least minimise, things going pear shaped and putting occupants in danger.

Driving

According to BMW the new X1 xDrive20d, which is fitted as standard with the eight-speed Steptronic transmission, accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 7.6 seconds. There was no complaining about the test car's spritely performance. However, the brakes were on the sharp side at times.

This increased sportiness over the previous model is claimed not to affect fuel consumption – the X1 has an official figure of 4.9L/100km on the combined urban/highway cycle. However, the test vehicle recorded significantly more than that, at 7.8L/100km in a built-up area drive, but the 4.3L/100km out on the open road was good.

Cabin comfort could not be faulted during our time with the compact BMW SUV. However, the 6.5-inch display screen is disappointingly small compared with many in similarly specified vehicles on the market.