BMW X1 Review: A Compact SUV With Sharp Tech And Space Inside

The third-generation BMW X1 finally feels like the small premium SUV it always promised to be. It looks more confident on the road, makes better use of its footprint, and delivers a cabin that no longer feels like an afterthought. If you want one car to cover school runs, commuting and weekends away without feeling like a downgrade, the X1 now makes a very persuasive case.

Step inside, and it’s immediately clear where the big leap has happened. The dashboard is dominated by a curved screen setup, the graphics are crisp, and there’s a strong sense of quality across the main touchpoints. BMW has pared back the physical controls, which looks modern, but it can be fiddly on the move—especially as the old rotary controller has been shown the door. Still, the layout is smart, storage is well considered, and the overall ambience punches above what you might expect from the entry point to the range.

On the road, the X1 keeps BMW’s driver-focused DNA intact. It’s composed through bends with plenty of grip and tidy body control, making it one of the more involving SUVs of this size. The steering is quick and light for urban work, though it can feel a touch remote once you’re pressing on. Around town, the automatic gearbox can hesitate when you pull away, so it rewards smooth inputs and a bit of anticipation at busy junctions.

Where the X1 really scores is its breadth of powertrains and everyday usability. Petrol, diesel, mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid options give buyers plenty of choice, and there’s meaningful performance across the board without turning running efficiency into an afterthought. The flip side is ride comfort: on sportier set-ups, especially with firmer suspension and larger wheels, the X1 can feel a bit taut over rough surfaces.

Practicality is a strong suit, with generous space front and rear, a useful boot, and a driving position that makes the car easy to place. Safety credentials are reassuring, although some of the more advanced driver assistance features sit behind optional packs. Taken as a whole, the X1 is a polished, well-rounded compact SUV that feels genuinely premium—just choose the wheel and suspension combination carefully if comfort is top of your list.