Bringing home a different car every week can have its drawbacks.
Specifically, it can sometimes involve other family members falling deeply in desire with a visiting vehicle - to the point where the car makes it onto the Christmas wish-list - only to be disappointed when they see the price tag.
BMW’s new X1 is such a car.
When the recently released third generation of BMW’s baby SUV came up for testing, it was the top-line model, the X1 XDrive20i. It made a big impression - class, comfort and capability.
But the sturdy price tag for that machine - about $70,000 on the road - dampened the enthusiasm. That was a few months ago.
Now, happily there is also this car - the basic model, slightly less powerful, slightly lesser specified and considerably less expensive version of BMW’s compact SUV.
It’s called the X1s-Drive18i and like its stablemate, it’s a cracking new take on this volume-selling Beemer. Significantly, it’s also about $10,000 cheaper than the model previously tested.
Yes, the base-model requires a few, relatively minor concessions.
The engine, for instance, has only three cylinders (instead of four); 115kW (instead of 150) and it drives through the front wheels only, (rather than the other car’s all-wheel-drive).
On the positive side, the smaller engine is more efficient, with just three cylinders and 1.5 litres capacity. Yet it still brings more than adequate performance for a car that would, in all likelihood, spend most of its time in the inner-city.
The engine is the same as that used in BMW’s spin-off brand Mini, in its Cooper models. It’s a device full of character that helps make the Mini a fun and memorable thing to drive.
When inserted in the X1, it’s no less appealing with its zippy, bordering on quick response, all nicely matched to the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
The noise and harshness abatement of the X1 is never more noticeable than when the stop/start function kicks in.
In the Mini, the engine shakes its head and visibly shudders every time the three-cylinder fires up. That’s barely noticeable in the X1.
Aside from some extra kit, most buyers would barely notice the difference between the two models. And they will matter very little for the majority of buyers in this class.
But saving a few grand can make all the difference about when deciding if the coveted propeller brand makes a permanent visit to your place, or you settle for a slightly more mainstream brand.
A Beemer that delivers all the goods, plus potentially gives you some change out of $60,000, certainly has appeal. In an Australian urban landscape where most cars spend less and less time outside the neighbourhood in which they reside, downsized machines such as this make a lot of sense.
Previous experience in the X1 X-drive 2.0i left no doubt BMW’s baby soft-roader is a cut above the entry-level models.
No surprises there, as these big marques are increasingly reliant upon these "generational buyers" who fall in love with a brand and often stay loyal for a lifetime.
It’s fair to say that previous models of the X1 have not delivered the kind of five-star, high-end motoring experience you might find elsewhere in the BMW range. But that all changes with this third-generation model which steps up the luxury and refinement to impressive levels.
It’s quiet, impressively smooth and compliant and delivers a silkiness from the drivetrain that belies its $53,900 price tag.
That refinement owes much to the vehicle’s all-round growth. At 4500mm in length it is 53mm longer than the second iteration. It’s also wider (1845mm, up 24mm); height is up by 44mm to 1642mm and has a lengthened 2692 wheelbase (up 22mm),
Yet BMW claims it’s easier to park than its smaller predecessor, thanks to high tech parking technology and driver assistance systems.
That’s just part of the upgraded technology package in this new model. Basic fit-out includes adaptive LED headlights, BMW personal assistant and live cockpit professional; head-up display, augmented reality navigation and active cruise control.
The entry model also has parking assistant plus; surround-view cameras, remove 3D view, reversing assistant and anti-dazzle mirrors.
The X1’s classy and crisp interior blends upgraded Sensatec (faux leather) upholstery, brushed alloy highlights and masses of storage space.
BMW also boasts about the green credentials of this car, which uses more secondary (recycled), raw and natural materials.
The three-cylinder engine’s lower emissions is another plus for environmentally-aware buyers. It is nothing new to the market, either, as marques from Mini to Toyota reduce engine capacity as means of building a bridge to the EV world.
The tech package extends to two 10.7-inch high resolution screens (curved to improve driver vision); new onboard operating system, better seats and a clever new “rocker” style gearchange mechanism.
Wireless smartphone charging is coupled to a new cradle device that enables the driver to see, but not touch, their phone.
Even the basic X1 model enjoys heated seats for driver and front passenger, as well as steering wheel heating (one of a number of features available on the new Features on Demand subscription service).
As for the one who previously had their heart set on the impressive new X1, she says this one would do just fine.
BMW X1 S-Drive18i
HOW BIG?
It has grown in every direction, bringing substantially more space to the interior.
HOW FAST?
It reaches the speed limit in a leisurely 9 seconds. That’s only 1.5 seconds slower than the 2-litre model.
HOW THIRSTY?
Its official thirst is a miserly 6.5L/100km, which is near enough to hybrid territory.
HOW MUCH?
Entry-level pricing starts at $53,900 plus on road fees and charges. A $6000 enhancement package adds a panoramic sunroof, Harmon-Kardon premium audio, metallic paint and sliding rear seats.
