Used 2018 BMW X1

BMW likes to call its crossover vehicles “SAVs,” short for Sports Activity Vehicle. Numerous models carry the X designation including the smallest of the bunch, the 2018 BMW X1. No less capable than the larger X3 and X5, the X1 mixes the performance abilities of the BMW 3 Series with a taller ride height and BMW’s sophisticated all-wheel-drive (AWD) setup. Because it’s an entry-level vehicle, the X1 can be crossed-shopped against all sorts of competitors ranging from the Buick Encore and Infiniti QX30 to the Mercedes-Benz GLA and Lexus NX. Numerous driver assists ensure the drive will be as safe as it is fun, the latter promise backed up by the X1’s gutsy 228-horsepower 4-cylinder engine.

Our test vehicle was the all-wheel-drive 2018 X1 xDrive28i, a vehicle we found to be quite fun. We’re hoping to get a chance in the front-drive version soon as it represents BMW’s first front-drive platform and transverse engine. We found the X1’s lightweight body a good fit for the turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, delivering immediate bursts of power when requested while returning impressive fuel economy in both our city and highway test loops. However, if you’re the type that likes to push a car hard at its limits, the X1 isn’t going to meet your expectations unless you opt for the M Sport suspension package. And, while BMW makes no claims of rugged off-road adventuring in the X1, with the right tires it can tackle minor run-ins with rutted dirt roads, loose gravel and fresh snow.

The BMW X1 for 2018 is a 2-row, 5-passenger SUV with plenty of room for people and cargo. Rear-seat passengers have excellent legroom unless the front passengers are so tall they have the front seats in their rearmost position. If this is the case, we recommend spending the additional $300 for the sliding rear-seat option that also reclines. Up front, power seats are standard. This baby BMW’s dash is sleek and angular. Materials have a premium look and feel, such as the soft-touch dash and wood accents. The standard SensaTec fake-leather seating feels down-market, though.

The X1 proudly displays its BMW lineage with a noticeably rugged and angular design that makes it look less like a tall wagon and more like a small SUV. For better or worse, the styling works. The X1’s 7.2 inches of ground clearance allow it to venture more securely off-road, while up front BMW’s familiar kidney grille, standard LED daytime running lights and optional LED headlights make a strong visual statement and brightly guide your path. The M Sport Package adds further flair with an aerodynamic kit, sport suspension and high-gloss roof rails.

POWER TAILGATE
Fitting BMW’s premium brand, the 2018 X1 is fitted with a standard power rear liftgate. Adding the Convenience Tier brings Comfort Access keyless entry that allows the liftgate to be activated simply by swiping your foot under the bumper.

APPLE CARPLAY
Apple CarPlay allows you to mirror your iPhone’s most important functions on the X1’s touch screen, giving you access to Siri, iTunes music, text message and maps. Although this convenient feature is now standard on most competitors, it’s still a $300 upgrade on the 2018 X1.

A base 2018 BMW X1 sDrive28i comes with front-wheel drive, while the xDrive28i includes all-wheel drive. Standard equipment includes 8-way-power front seats, automatic climate control, power tailgate, rain-sensing windshield wipers, rearview monitor, push-button ignition, and 18-inch wheels with run-flat tires. The standard infotainment system includes a 6.5-inch screen, 7-speaker AM/FM/HD Radio/CD player with USB input and Bluetooth audio streaming/phone connectivity. The X1 also includes BMW Assist eCall emergency-request system with an SOS button, complimentary scheduled maintenance for four years/50,000 miles, and roadside assistance for four years/unlimited miles.

As with most BMWs, there are plenty of ways to upgrade the X1, and they can make the vehicle’s base price climb quickly. Even most of the X1’s exterior paint colors are extra money, unless you go with non-metallic black or white. You’ll also pay extra for Apple CarPlay, a feature that is becoming standard on mainstream SUVs such as the Subaru Outback. Other notable extras include a higher-resolution 8.8-inch monitor, panoramic moonroof, navigation, leather interior, heated front seats, and 12-speaker harman/kardon audio system. New driver-assistance features include lane-departure warning, frontal-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and active cruise control.

The 2018 BMW X1 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder that makes 228 horsepower. BMW promises the X1 can hit the 0-60-mph benchmark in 6.3 seconds. A Sport mode livens throttle response and stiffens steering feel, while Comfort and Eco modes tone down settings. The X1 offers the option of front-wheel or all-wheel drive (FWD, AWD) and uses an 8-speed Aisin automatic transmission. A start/stop system shuts off the engine at idle to save fuel. If you find the restarts jarring, it can be defeated. Premium gasoline is recommended.

2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4
228 horsepower @ 5,000 rpm
258 lb-ft of torque @ 1,250 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 23/32 mpg (FWD), 22/31 mpg (AWD)