BMW X1 xDrive25i she says, he says review
He: BMW's littlest SUV has been given a big makeover. The old model was more of a tall hatch, available with either all-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive. But this all-new X1 is the latest BMW to get a front-wheel drive platform as it now shares its underpinnings with the 2-Series Active Tourer - and therefore the Mini. However, we are driving the range-topping all-paw xDrive25i. One of the biggest changes is the styling with this new model looking very much like a scaled down X5. What do you think of the looks, Molly?
She: Despite not being a huge small SUV fan, I thought it looked really good. Compact and sleek with just enough aggression to look tough without being ugly. I particularly liked the sharp lines and angles from the side view. I think I actually prefer it visually to it's bigger X5 sibling. Practically speaking too, despite being 36mm shorter, it actually has a longer wheelbase as well as being wider and higher than its predecessor. A fresh face and more space has to be a pretty good start don't you think?
He: Yeah, while I personally liked the old model I think this one has broader appeal. The extra space is a big plus and comes, in part, due to the new underpinnings. Which leads us to how it drives on this Mini-based platform; I've driven the front-wheel drive X1 as well and even with all-wheel drive I still feel this is unlike any BMW I've driven before (with the obvious exception of the 2-Series Active Tourer). The steering lacks the same feel and response as a traditional BMW and the ride was pretty choppy at times, tending to crash over bumps. Do you find the same, or am I being too harsh?
She: On my first drive I thought it was ok and felt more car like than SUV, however I did then take it out on a rougher road and, like you did, I found it very harsh. The dampening didn't seem to have much control over sharp, small bumps. Although the engine did feel capable enough. Does it score more points with style rather than the way it drove for you?
He: Actually I wasn't a fan of the interior either. It is the same old BMW dashboard and console design and the materials lacked a premium feel. I also felt the seats were pretty flat. Overall I felt like the X1 didn't feel as nice inside as some top-spec mainstream rivals.
She: I'm confused, normally I'm the hard one to please! But I'll agree with you on the seats and the interior styling could be a bit fresher. Although I think the X1 has a lot of presence about it and for that reason in combination with the space and practicality improvements, I think it will remain a popular choice in this segment. Having driven the two-wheel drive version as well as the all-wheel drive, what was your verdict on the drivetrain options?
He: Now I'll be nice - mostly. I think the drivetrain is great in the xDrive25i. The 2.0-litre turbo petrol unit has plenty of pulling power and the eight-speed auto is really well matched. It has the kind of effortless performance you expect from a BMW. The front-wheel drive variant is as good as any offer front driver but it just doesn't feel like a BMW to me. There is noticeable torque-steer at times, which is a very unusual trait for a Beemer. The all-wheel drive takes care of most of that but really it doesn't make the X1 a proper off-roader so you have to questions it's worth. So, no surprises I'm not going to start saving my money for one. How about you, Molly?
She: I think I'm going to have to agree with you again. Only driving the AWD, it certainly feels capable on the road combined with that torquey engine. My issue, like you, however is whether you can justify the jump to the AWD. Overall I would have liked the ride and drive experience to feel a little more premium and whilst I think it looks really great, unfortunately that wouldn't be enough to convince me either.
2015 BMW X1 xDrive25i pricing and specifications
Price: From $59,900 plus on-road costs
Engines: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol
Power: 170kW at 5000-6000rpm
Torque: 350Nm at 1250-4500rpm
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic, all-wheel drive
Fuel use: 6.4L/100km