BMW X1 cars for sale

Frequently asked questions about the BMW X1

• What is the BMW X1?
• Smallest of the German firm's SUV line-up is the BMW X1, which is based on similar underpinnings to the 1 Series range. Nestling below the X3 and X5 and BMW's crossover range, it's closely related to the X2, which is a sort-of-coupe variant of it. As with all BMWs, the X1 majors on delivering a satisfying driving experience, separating it from an otherwise competitive set of rivals that include the Audi Q3, Jaguar E-Pace and Volvo XC40.
  
  BMW treated the X1 to a minor facelift at the end of 2019, with some visual titivation, including a much bolder grille treatment, similar to the larger SUV range.

• Which versions of the BMW X1 are available?
• Now in its second generation, launched in 2016 (with the BMW codename F48), the X1 has all the upmarket build quality you’d expect, but is pricey as you work up the equipment levels from SE, through Sport and xLine to M Sport. The X1 only comes as a five-door SUV – though if you do want something a little more sporty looking there is always the fundamentally similar X2.
  
  There’s a broad range of petrol and diesel engines, all of which are turbocharged and most of which are available as sDrive models with front-wheel drive only or xDrive models with four-wheel drive – though the entry-level petrol is sDrive only-and the top-spec diesel is solely an xDrive. An efficient plug-in hybrid version, badged xDrive25e, joined the range in spring 2020. You get a six-speed manual gearbox as standard on the least powerful models, but most are fitted with a responsive automatic.

• Is the BMW X1 good to drive?
• Verging on the outstanding, for a small SUV. Sharp steering, a keen sense of balance and some excellent engines ensure you won’t have to try hard to have fun in one of these. The standard suspension is on the firm side, as it works to keep the upright body in check during harder cornering. Optional adaptive damping is available to improve this.
  
  Unusually for BMW, there is no dedicated performance version. But xDrive variants in particular still feel very dynamic on the road; even with the four-wheel drive system this isn’t really a vehicle for serious off-roading.

• Shoud I buy a BMW X1?
• The X1 doesn't look hugely expensive compared with rivals, but do consider the standard equipment list, which isn’t as generous as some – particularly in the area of active safety technology. Deals aren’t unheard of, and it’s always worth haggling, especially if you’re planning to buy one on finance.