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• High quality cabin
• Excellent iDrive infotainment system
• Lumbar support is only optional

Like all BMWs, the X1’s interior feels superbly made and features one of the best infotainment systems on the market, improved further still for 2020 with a choice of 8.8- or 10.25-inch touchscreens. BMW’s iDrive infotainment still leaves a number of rivals trailing in its wake for sheer ease of use and functionality, especially the aged Mercedes-Benz GLA. It’s easy to operate while on the move and boasts sharp, clear graphics and easy-to-navigate menus.

The premium feel of the materials may differ depending on what trim level you go for, but the level of outright quality is always consistently high. Everything feels well screwed together and tightly held in place, with no noticeable squeaks or rattles in any of the car’s we’ve experienced.

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Again, enhancements were introduced for 2020 with a plusher feel to the cabin with increased use of squidgy plastic mouldings and double-stitching to many surfaces to lend it a hand-crafted look.

Comfortable, but there’s a sporty focus

• Firmer ride than many rivals
• Noticeable amount of road noise
• Comfy seats, but lumbar support isn’t standard

Overall, the X1 has a well-judged driving position with enough adjustment in both the seat back, base and steering wheel to ensure most drivers are comfy. However, lumbar adjustment – for both the driver and front passenger – is only available as an option, and the front seats are rather tight for those of broader stature.

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How comfortable the X1 is depends on the spec you choose, as the ride quality can differ from each model. It’s never uncomfortable, but it can be firmer than what you’d get from its main rivals.

Models with the smallest wheels (in other words – the less popular non-M Sport ones), return superior comfort levels, plus the optional adaptive suspension further helps soften things up. The plug-in hybrid xDrive 25e with its smaller wheels and non-M-Sport suspension, is a great example and benefits from low road noise.

Engine refinement is in line with other smaller SUVs with the diesel models being a bit more gruff, but there’s noticeable tyre roar – especially at higher speeds – that’s hard to ignore, on models with larger-diameter wheels.