• Summary

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What does this car say about you?

    A member of IAM since 1972 & now aged 68 I needed something small & light but with plenty of grunt. The X Drive ensures safe roadholding in any conditions.

    What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

    They all like it . 3 can sit easily in rear & 3 belts are installed. Front has sports seats which are SO comfortable. Lots of power even if fully loaded. The "estorial blue" body colour makes the car stand out.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    I intend to renew after 3 yrs with identical car.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    The identical with the X Drive. All cars should have X Drive. It would prevent many accidents as roadholding at speed is perfect in all weather from dry thru rain/puddles to snow & ice.

  • Buying experience

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Franchised

    Did you buy this car new?

    Yes

    What price did you pay?

    £30,000

    When did you buy the car?

    March 2014

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Had a big cash deposit so had some extras added in the price.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    I live in the countryside & needed a 4WD for winter snow & ice. I did not want a big SUV so went for the small BMW with the X Drive.

    What was the dealer like?

    Very good. Knew his BMW's & was so helpful. Allowed me to take the car out on my own for an hour+.

  • Driving it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Great, The X Drive puts 60% of drive to front axle & 40% to rear under normal driving conditions but can put 100% power to either front or rear to maintain grip. 184bhp & 6 speed manual g/box (X Drive bulky box under car does not allow an auto box to be fitted) 46mpg around town & I managed 57mpg on long run to Scotland & back. 2L turbo diesel gives all the grunt you need. 0-60 takes 7.1 secs. Cruise control will auto brake on downward hill to keep at set speed. Google "BMW X Drive" & watch the video! Cruise at 70mph in 6th gear with just 1800 rpm.

    What's it like to park?

    Its fairly small & rear sensors stop you bumping anything. Steering light enough for one handed rear movement.

  • Living with it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    1 rear brake/sidelight went. Took me 5 mins to fix with bulb from Ebay.

    What's most practical about your car?

    The X Drive. So safe in all weathers and no understeer at all on fast bends.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    The X Drive 4WD system is superb. Every car should have it.