The BMW X1 is offered with just one engine for 2016-- a 4-cylinder turbocharged unit that makes 228 hp and 258 foot-pounds of torque. This engine is mated to an 8-speed automatic sending power to all four wheels. The combination should be good for 0-60 sprints in the low 6 second range. Thanks to turbocharging and a relatively light vehicle, fuel economy should still be respectable for the segment.
Standard equipment levels are quite generous on the new BMW X1, though there are still plenty of options and packages available to further enhance the vehicle. Highlights on the standard equipment list include power front seats, a leather wrapped steering wheel with audio and cruise control functions, a 7-speaker stereo, electronically adjustable heated exterior mirrors, rain sensing wipers, automatic headlights, dynamic cruise control, 18-inch wheels and tires, a 6.5-inch monitor, fog lamps, an automatic tailgate and an alarm.
Option packages include the M Sport package with highlights the sportiness of the X1, as well as a Premium Package, which adds an extra level of luxury. The M Sport package includes updates to the transmission, including steering wheel mounted paddle shifters, sportier seats, a sportier steering wheel and stiffer suspension for better handling. The Premium package offers access to full LED headlights and huge panoramic moonroof.
A Driver Assistance Plus package offers speed limit info, active cruise control, park distance control, a Lane Departure Warning system, automatic high beams, a front collision warning system and a rear view camera. A parking Assistant system is also included that aids drivers when they are trying to parallel park.
Options on the BMW X1 are plentiful. Buyers willing to upgrade from the 6.5-inch screen to an 8.8 inch one will also get access to BMW apps and real time traffic updates. The navigation system has a heads up display function, allowing it to project data directly onto the windshield. 19-inch wheels make the car look lower and meaner, while a Harman Kardon stereo system includes 12 speakers and 360 watts of sound.
Practical With Lots Of Interior Room
Fuel Efficient But Powerful Engine
BMW Cachet
Inexpensive Base Price
The BMW X1 is all new for 2016, having been updated inside and out. Styling is now more in line with the rest of the BMW lineup and a new engine promises better efficiency. Interior space has been increased over last year's vehicle, making the 2016 X1 more practical, but at the same time, it hasn't gotten so big as to no longer be easy to drive in the city.
The BMW X1 is the least expensive vehicle in BMW's X lineup. It aims to bring buyers the utility and practicality of a small SUV without the boring driving experience that usually accompanies such a vehicle. Starting at around $35,000, the BMW X1 isn't as cheap as many of the vehicles in its class, but as befitting a premium brand, standard equipment levels are high and the X1 offers a driving experience that can't really be matched by anything in its class. The X1 offers a great combination of driving fun, interior room and smartly executed ideas; all wrapped up in a small SUV package.
