Sporty BMW X1 feels good on the road, but could use a nosejob

BMW has made a big move with the introduction of its entry-level vehicles known collectively as the 1 Series. Their 128 and 135 sedans have successfully scaled down their overall dimensions yet kept the level of quality and performance of their larger and more expensive siblings. The full-sized SUVs, known as the X5 and X6, plus the X3 compact crossover, do a fine job, but BMW needed a 1 Series variant to complete the line-up and so we have the X1 joining the Sports Activities Series.

Smaller than the X3, the X1 is considered sportier and more affordable with a base price of $38,500. The X1 xDrive28i as tested with the Premium Package ($1,490) and electric seats with Driver Memory ($950) came to $40,940.

Design: Although it debuted only three years ago in 2009, BMW has given the exterior a freshening for 2012 along with some impressive boosts in the mechanical department. The look is still distinctively BMW, but while the 7/8th-scale sedans are cute as a button, the X1 appears awkward to me. I don’t see the brawny grace of the X3, X5 and quirky X6 in the lines of the smaller SAV.

Yes, the traditional dual kidney-shaped grille openings are there, but the hood is flatter and the front fascia is blunt. The lower grille opening is large but well hidden by the use of black plastic bodywork but there is a splash of silver trim that accentuates the lower lip giving the X1 a pouty look.

The side profile benefits from the good looks of the X3’s ample greenhouse and subtle wheel arches that blend into the doors. Again, the lower panels are sheathed in black with satin silver trim but with much more pleasing results than the front view. The satin aluminum roof rails as part of the Premium Package add a sporty off-road look while expanding the cargo capabilities of the X1 to include skis, bikes and other outdoor toys.

The rear fascia is also similar to the X3 with multi-band adaptive LED tail lights and upswept black cladding below the rear bumper. The satin silver trim also makes an appearance at the rear.

If you didn’t notice it from the outside, you can’t miss it when you enter the spacious cabin. The panoramic sunroof is also part of the Premium Package and it floods the interior with light. This is a good thing as all BMWs are heavy on the black interiors which can become oppressive. The sunroof, combined with the large upright side windows, ensure there are no feelings of claustrophobia here.

The dashboard and instruments are distinctly BMW but are rather uninspired although extremely practical. It’s difficult to complain about the conservative approach but other manufacturers are becoming more adventuresome with colours and console layout.

Performance: While the interior may be a little behind the times, under the hood is cutting-edge technology. BMW has utilized their TwinPower Turbo magic to make more power with less fuel. The powertrain engineers have added forced induction (TwinPower Turbo) to help generate 241 horsepower from a motor of 2.0 litres displacement. The engine torque rating is a healthy 258 foot-pounds at a very low 1250 rpm which means the grunt is ready at low speeds.

To get that power to the wheels, all of them with xDrive, an eight-speed gearbox is used to ensure that the engine is kept in the most efficient power band. As a result, the X1 never feels out of breath and the shifts are as smooth as can be. BMW utilizes its Efficient Dynamics to regenerate energy under braking to charge the battery instead of dissipating it as heat. Double VANOS stepless variable valve timing, direct fuel injection and Valvetronic engine technology each work in conjunction to squeeze all the energy possible from a litre of fuel. The X1 prefers premium gasoline so any savings are appreciated at the pumps.