autoX Awards 2023: Don’t believe everything you read on the spec sheet. That’s what we have to say about the new BMW X1. When you see what it has to offer on paper, it will come across as a bit underwhelming. However, the moment you get behind the wheel, all those preconceived notions will simply disappear.
Let’s first address the elephant in the room – the engine options. BMW offers the X1 with two engine options – a 133bhp rated 1.5-cylinder three-cylinder turbo and a 148bhp 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo. There’s no AWD on offer – both versions are FWD. Now, that doesn’t sound right in a BMW, does it?
But, coming back to the point, don’t judge a book by its cover. And that’s because the X1 belies everything that you read about it. For our track test, BMW sent the X1 diesel, and suffice to say, its drivetrain is not lethargic. It’s refined – at least on the inside – the power delivery is velvety, and the driveability is stellar. At no point does it feel slow or underpowered. Whether you’re cruising down the expressway, driving in traffic, or pushing it on a track, the X1’s diesel unit has you covered everywhere.
What we did miss, however, was the AWD traction and sure-footedness. Full-bore acceleration results in a bit of a torque steer, which is a bit un-BMW-like. The handling is precise, though, and the BMW X1 steers with great poise. The suspension is well calibrated and the ride is taut without being objectionable.
Also Read: 2023 BMW X1 Review: So Good, But So Un-BMW!
The X1 takes the game forward in terms of offering you a luxury car experience. The quality of materials, fit-and-finish, curved HD display, interior space, gadgets, seat massagers, and so on – everything in here makes it the quintessential luxury SUV. You can’t fault this aspect of the X1, really.
On the whole, the X1 is a much better luxury SUV than it ever was. We’d go as far as to claim that it’s the best entry-level ‘luxury’ SUV if all you want to do is pamper yourself and your family. As a BMW, though, it does leave you wanting more...
- BMW X1 (Lap Time: 01.14.2)
| PARAMETERS | POINTS | SCORE |
|---|---|---|
| QUALITY | 5 | 4 |
| COMFORT / SPACE | 5 | 4 |
| REFINEMENT | 5 | 4 |
| DESIGN | 5 | 3.5 |
| DRIVETRAIN | 5 | 4 |
| RIDE & HANDLING | 5 | 3.5 |
| PRACTICALITY | 5 | 3.5 |
| X FACTOR | 20 | 13 |
| LAP TIME | 15 | 8 |
| VALUE FOR MONEY | 30 | 14 |
| TOTAL | 100 | 61.5 |
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