BMW’s SUV line-up is one of the most extensive around, offering a whole range of models to suit a variety of customers.
But BMW has recently turned its attention to its most compact and affordable SUV – the X1. Arriving for its third generation, this new model gets a much bolder design and all of BMW’s latest interior technology – including the fantastic new Curved Display.
It’s also much roomier than its predecessor and it gets a range of new engine and powertrain options. Let’s take a look at what the 2023 BMW X1 has to offer…
What engines are available?
BMW is offering a great choice of engines with the X1 – including two petrol, two diesel and two plug-in hybrids. All models come paired with an automatic gearbox too,
Let’s start with the petrols, which are predicted to be the best-sellers, and which utilise mild-hybrid technology. The line-up kicks off with the front-wheel-drive sDrive20i – a 168bhp 2.0-litre petrol that can manage 0-60mph in 8.1 seconds, while BMW claims up to 46.3mpg on the fuel economy front. If you want more poke, there’s the xDrive23i – a 2.0-litre petrol engine again, but this time with 215bhp. It can hit 60mph in 6.9 seconds, while BMW claims 42.2mpg.
For those doing lots of miles, a diesel might make the most sense, and there are two 2.0-litre choices – the 148bhp sDrive18d and the mild-hybrid 208bhp xDrive23d. Hitting 60mph will take 8.7 and 7.2 seconds in the two X1s respectively, while it’s actually the more powerful engine that’s better on fuel – BMW claiming 57.6mpg.
If you’d like a plug-in hybrid, there are two models available – the xDrive25e and the xDrive30e. Each of these uses a 1.5-litre petrol engine paired with an electric motor, with combined power outputs of 242bhp and 322bhp respectively. With a 14.2kWh usable battery onboard, BMW claims more than 50 miles from a charge – allowing for claimed fuel economy figures of more than 400mpg. You will need to complete nearly all your miles on electricity to see those kinds of figures, however. The ‘30e’ model is also the quickest X1 model available, with just 5.5 seconds needed to dash from 0-60mph.
What trim levels are offered?
There are three trim levels available on the X1 – Sport, xLine and M Sport – with equipment highlights as follows.
Sport – from £35,065
All X1s come with plenty of equipment, with the Sport version coming with LED headlights and LED rear lights, 17-inch alloy wheels, two-zone climate control and an electric tailgate. You also get BMW’s Curved Display, including a 10.7-inch touchscreen and 10.25-inch digital dial display, along with cruise control, a reversing camera and a parking assistant.
xLine – from £37,065
The xLine gets a more rugged look thanks to exclusive 18-inch alloy wheels, dark grey mirrors and satin aluminium lower trim. It also gets Sensatec upholstery on the seats and illuminated interior trim.
M Sport – from £39,815
For a sportier look, choose the M Sport. This brings a racier look thanks to its gloss black styling kit, reprofiled bumpers and large 19-inch alloy wheels. It also includes sports seats, an M leather steering wheel and adaptive M suspension.
What about personalisation?
With three distinct-looking trim levels available, there are plenty of different looks available for the X1. But there’s also a good choice of colours, including brighter shades such as Cape York Green, Utah Orange and Blue Bay Lagoon. You can also specify a matte ‘Frozen Pure Grey’ finish for £2,100. The alloy wheels can be upgraded to 20 inches, while you can option leather upholstery in cream, brown or black for £1,150.
Various optional extras are also available, with the £1,050 Comfort Pack being particularly appealing as this brings electric front seats and a heated steering wheel. Sun Protection Glass is also a worthwhile £300 to spend if you have children, while the £1,000 panoramic glass sunroof is appealing too.
Enquire on a new BMW X1