BMW X1

The X1 is a compact five-seat SUV smaller than the X3. The base 240-hp, turbocharged four-cylinder, mated to an eight-speed automatic, provides quick acceleration, and is available with rear- or all-wheel drive. The 3.0-liter, 300-hp turbocharged six-cylinder gets a six-speed automatic. Based on the previous-generation 3 Series (2006-2011), the X1 feels quite sporty to drive, but ride comfort is on the stiff side and the sharp and communicative steering feels heavy at low speeds. Noise isolation and interior quality are a notch below BMW's high standards but still decent. BMW totally reimagined the X1 for 2016. Larger and roomier, it moved to a new front-wheel-drive-based platform shared with the Mini Clubman. Even though the drivetrain remains as a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and eight-speed automatic, both are new designs. This powertrain returned 26 mpg overall. Although capable and responsive, ride and handling are more ordinary than sporty. Road noise is rather noticeable. The interior is typical BMW, with high-quality materials and switchgear. The front seats are rather short and flat, however, while rear-seat passengers hit their shins against the backs for the front seats. The 2020 model got a mild freshening that included an electronic gear selector.

Generation summary from Consumer Reports. Year-specific figures appear below; missing values mean unavailable, not zero.