The X1 xDrive 28i is a compact crossover that is true to its BMW nameplate. It handles superbly with agile steering and a delightfully rigid suspension.
At the core of this car is a twin-turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. While down from a six-cylinder turbo available last year, the four-cylinder engine delivers 228 horsepower, bringing it from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 6.3 seconds. The engine is controlled by an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The X1 has three settings for controlling driving dynamics: economy, comfort and sport.
BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system grips the pavement even in the most inclement weather. Like its counterparts the Mercedes-Benz GLA, the Audi Q3, and the Lexus NX, the X1 crams features into a smaller-sized crossover.
Some of the features in the X1 are hidden like Easter eggs. The controls for the heated steering wheel are located on the side of the steering column. There’s also a proprietary smartphone charger in the tiny armrest in the console.
The electronics package included on this BMW are top-notch. An 8.8-inch screen has a unique tombstone-like appearance, protruding up from the dashboard. The navigation system delivers clear and concise commands and displays traffic reports on its map. A Harman Kardon stereo system cranks out 340 watts of AM/FM/SiriusXM, USB or Bluetooth sound and does not disappoint.
The X1 also benefits from a careful and intuitive layout of the controls. A joystick-like iDrive controller rests on the center console and the driver easily adapts to controlling the system without even taking their eyes of the road. A heads-up display also keeps the driver focused on the pavement. Adaptive LED headlights help the driver see around corners. Another safety feature warns the driver about drifting outside their lane.
Stitched mocha Dakota leather covers the stiff and supportive heated seats. Wood accents throughout the cabin are outlined by LED lights that glow. A double-sized panoramic moonroof opens the ceiling to the heavens.
Handsome 19-inch ?Y-spoke, light alloy wheels pop on an attractive BMW exterior in mineral white metallic.
The 28i gets great gas mileage — 22 in the city and 32 on the highway for an average of 26 — but buyers need to beware that this Beemer requires 91 octane gasoline.
On the short list of complaints: The X1 lacks decent places for storing beverages and cellphones.
The bottom line is that the X1 is so loaded with features that it would be a Bavarian bargain, if it only had that six-cylinder engine.
