Used 2021 BMW X1

The 2021 BMW X1 premium subcompact crossover is one of the least expensive yet most enjoyable vehicles in the BMW stable. Its tiny size, gutsy turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, and adept suspension evoke a bygone time when BMW’s primary mission was driving enjoyment.

However, the X1 pays a price for these performance credentials in the areas of ride comfort and cabin noise, something many luxury buyers won’t appreciate.

For something that leans more toward cosseting, the Lexus UX, Audi Q3, or Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class might make a better choice. And although the X1 xDrive28i is capable in wintry conditions, it can’t match the off-road chops of luxury competitors like the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque or even non-luxury mudlarks like the Jeep Compass Trailhawk.

Even a brief spell behind the wheel of the 2021 X1 reinforces that special BMW reputation for driver engagement. Its nimble size and lightweight body make the most of the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine’s output, while the precise steering and optional M suspension allow this little SUV/crossover to tackle curves with an undeniable flair.

BMW says the X1 can run from standstill to 60 mph in a brisk 6.3 seconds. A Sport mode livens throttle response and stiffens steering feel, while Comfort and Eco modes tone things down accordingly.

Once up to speed, the X1 has no issues with passing or merging. And the 8-speed transmission shifts smoothly, with minimal hunting. Fuel economy estimates of 31 mpg on the highway are pretty much spot-on in the real world, even when applying a heavy right foot.

The bad news is that the X1’s taut suspension means a ride on the stiff side. It seems to telegraph every little bump and blemish in the road. The cabin is also a bit noisy, and the standard seats feel like hard upright lawn chairs in desperate need of padding. The M package’s sport seats are something of an improvement, but this bundle is an extra $4,350.

The xDrive all-wheel-drive system is great for cornering on dry roads and providing extra reassurance in slippery conditions. But without the right wheel/tire combination, not even light off-roading is recommended.

The BMW X1 is a 2-row/5-occupant SUV with plenty of room for people and cargo despite its subcompact designation. Rear passengers have excellent legroom unless those up front are really tall and need to slide their seats as far back as they will go. If this is the case, spend an additional $300 for the sliding rear-seat option that also reclines. Power-adjustable front seats are standard.

This baby BMW’s dashboard is sleek and angular, graced by an 8.8-inch infotainment display. Materials like soft-touch plastics and wood accents have a premium look and feel. But the standard simulated leather upholstery feels a little low-rent.

One more gripe: the bottoms of the front seats are unforgiving, especially around the driver’s thighs and lower back, making it difficult to stay comfortable on long trips.

Goodbye, Sparkling Brown Metallic. Farewell, Dark Olive Metallic. See you never, Jucaro Beige Metallic. These are some of the paint color changes for the 2021 X1. Orange has also been peeled from the catalog. In their place are Cashmere Silver Metallic and Phytonic Blue Metallic. All at extra cost, of course.

The overall styling is kind of “love it or hate it,” but the X1 is in line with BMW’s other SUVs. The M Sport package has a particularly assertive look, with 19-inch alloy wheels and an aerodynamic package that makes the X1 appear wider and meaner than normal.

POWERED TAILGATE
Many luxury marques bundle features like a powered tailgate into expensive option packages. The 2021 BMW X1 makes it standard. The Convenience package enables tailgate opening with the swipe of a foot.

APPLE CARPLAY
Smartphone connectivity is a must these days, so while we’re still hoping BMW can add Android Auto to the mix, the standard Apple CarPlay will have to do for now.

There are no trim levels in the usual sense. Every 2021 BMW X1 has a push-button ignition, 8-way power-adjustable front seats, automatic climate control, rain-sensing wipers, cruise control, powered tailgate, front/rear parking sensors, and 18-inch alloy wheels wearing run-flat tires. The X1 sDrive28i has front-wheel drive. The X1 xDrive28i deploys all-wheel drive.

The standard infotainment system consists of an 8.8-inch display, 7-speaker audio system, AM/FM/HD/satellite radio, CD player, USB port, Bluetooth audio streaming/phone connectivity, navigation, and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration. But not Android Auto.

Also included is the BMW Assist eCall emergency request system with an SOS button, plus forward-collision warning with low-speed emergency braking, lane-departure warning, automatic high beams, complimentary scheduled maintenance for four years/50,000 miles, and roadside assistance for four years/unlimited miles. It’s disappointing that blind-spot monitoring is not available at all, not even as an option.

As with most BMWs, there are plenty of ways to upgrade a new X1, and they can make the price climb quickly. Even the exterior paint colors are extra unless non-metallic black or white is chosen.

Many extras are bundled into packages and include a panoramic moonroof, head-up display, adaptive LED headlights, motion-activated tailgate, self-dimming mirrors, powered lumbar support, real leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a 12-speaker/360-watt Harman Kardon audio system.

The M Sport package adds an even firmer suspension, dedicated wheel/tire combination, sportier automatic transmission calibration, sport front seats, aerodynamic kit, plus “Shadowline” roof rails and exterior trim.

Individual options include heated front seats, heated steering wheel, wireless charging, and adaptive cruise control with stop/go and active driving assistance.

A turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder endows the 2021 X1 with 228 horsepower. Front-wheel drive (FWD) is the setup in the sDrive version; xDrive is BMW’s pet name for all-wheel drive (AWD), found in the xDrive28i. An 8-speed automatic transmission is standard throughout.

A fuel-saving engine stop/restart function can be turned off if drivers find the action too jarring. Premium gasoline is recommended.

These EPA figures are from 2020, but we expect this year’s to be the same.

2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4
228 horsepower @ 5,000 rpm
258 lb-ft of torque @ 1,250 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 24/33 mpg (FWD), 23/31 mpg (AWD)