Flash Drive

2016 BMW X1

April 10, 2016 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 

 

 

 Model Tested: 2016 BMW X1 xDrive 28i

The 2016 BMW X1 is a crossover SUV that performs extremely well on pavement.
The 2016 BMW X1 is a crossover SUV that performs extremely well on pavement.

Engine: 2.0-liter I-4 gas, 228 horsepower, 258 lb-ft torque

Transmission: 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission, all-wheel-drive

EPA Ratings: 22/City—32/Highway—26/Combined

Base Price: $34,800

As Tested: $45,370

Performance:

Powerful, turbocharged engine

Gobs of torque

Good acceleration

Sport mode makes big performance boost

The BMW X1 is also very competent in off highway situations and foul weather conditions.,
The BMW X1 is also very competent in off highway situations and foul weather conditions.,

Also has Eco mode

Excellent, smooth highway ride

Confident off-road manners/capabilities

Nice nimble size for city driving and parking

Comfort:

Quality fit and finish

Excellent thick, contoured leather steering wheel

OK auxiliary controls

Very good headroom

Stretch-out driver legroom

Three temperature heated and ventilated front seats

The X1 is available with a very powerful I-4 and an even more potent I-6.
The X1 is available with a very powerful I-4, which is turbocharged.

Firm driver power lumbar support

Excellent seats for long trips

Also power lumbar for front passenger

Huge dead pedal

Good adult size backseat room if front seats are up a little

Excellent shoe space under front seats

Adjustable recline for second row seats

Wide rear armrest with cup holders and small storage bin

Tall floor hump

Great panoramic moonroof

Excellent sound system

Utility:

Large front door bins

Roomy, supportive seats and ample legroom make the X1 great on long drives.
Roomy, supportive seats and ample legroom make the X1 great on long drives.

Big rear door bins

Medium size console bin

Two seatback nets

Power tailgate, but doesn’t open high enough for tall people

Flat cargo floor

Cargo space on the small side

Power seatback release by tailgate

Three-way split folding rear seats

Seats fold almost flat

Big knob easily controls infotainment menu/functions

Wow Factors:

Excellent engine and transmission

Light, bright interior with panoramic moonroof

The versatile folding rear seats make it possible to carry both passengers and cargo.
The versatile folding rear seats make it possible to carry both passengers and cargo.

Very supportive long distance seats

Good size for urban driving

Whines:

Long option list can run up price

Smallish sun visors

Open tailgate hits my forehead

Bottom Line:

The 2016 BMX X1 is a compact crossover SUV that’s quite roomy inside. Space is excellent for four people, but at the cost of cargo capacity. Performance and handling on and off road are excellent as should be expected from BMW. Comfort is great on long trips. The compact BMW X1 is ideal for active city dwellers.