Versatility, functionality and premium character. If you add to these features the need to follow the latest trends, you should not miss the function that BMW has organized for the BMW X1. The curtain rose last June when we learned what the third generation of the Bavarian house’s smallest SUV was like and the action continues now. Already we have tested the BMW X1 2022: this is what it has for and against.
There is one thing the BMW X1 can boast about: it has always been one of the best driving models in the segment and the third generation follows the same path. Our test runs through different scenarios (highway, secondary roads, ports and roads full of twisty curves) and the feeling is always characterized by being linear. Even, at certain times, it invites you to step with more enthusiasm than in some of its rivals.
If something works, it is best not to change it
The rolling quality of the new BMW X1 is evident: on the road (motorways and secondary roads) it is an SUV whose tread has poise and firmness. The steering ratio is high: when things get complicated and the curves are tighter than expected, it requires more steering wheel spin to draw them correctly. This obviously makes it more difficult to notice how the car is going, although it allows for easier guidance. However, the body roll is small: yes, it is minimal, but you can feel it.
The suspension is relatively solid to act as a filter between the irregularities of the asphalt and the interior of the BMW X1 2022. The sound of the wind, the road and the mechanics do not appear in the equation: the comfort of the driving position is enough to finish the day without feeling tired.
The seven-speed automatic transmission has smooth demeanor: in the new BMW X1 changing gears is a hassle-free experience, although I personally miss the ability to manually upshift or downshift. In the versions without cams it is not possible and the new ‘Mode L’ (which we will now talk about) does not reduce as much as I would like.
What does the 2022 BMW X1 have for and against?
Our test on board the new BMW X1 lasted a little over two hours And although it was not especially long, it did give us time to identify what it has in its favor and what is against the German compact SUV.
Pros: aerodynamics
Its changes in design and the arrival of certain elements have made the BMW X1 2022 have a drag coefficient of 0.26 Cx: the best in the X family and in its segment, according to the brand. Its active grille, the closed kidneys, the ‘air curtains’ that guide the flow of air, the new design of the rear-view mirrors and the handles (now flush), the rear spoiler or the exhaust tails contribute to this. In the case of the electric version, BMW iX1, we must add the aerodynamic wheels.
In favor: interior space
The BMW X1 2022 has grown in all its dimensions and this is noticeable in its cabin, which gains space for all occupants. It is especially noticeable in the back row. sitting on it it’s easy to feel the space these seats gain over the previous generation: even with the optional panoramic roof, the tallest will be much more comfortable. Although, as always happens, it will be a bit cramped if three adults travel.
The rear bench, by the way, can be moved longitudinally 13 centimeters and the backrest of the seats can be reclined 12 degrees. to gain space in a trunk whose capacity has grown from 505 liters in the second generation to 540 liters in the current one. The correct height of the loading mouth is maintained, the practical shape of this loading area and we add an additional under the main floor of the trunk.
Pros: new location for the phone
BMW is aware that phones are getting bigger and bigger. For this reason, it has devised a solution to carry it without space problems: in the lower part of the central console we find a stand (with wireless charging) to place it upright which, in addition, has a harness that keeps it in place at all times.
Its location, out of sight of the driver, eliminates distractions although we have found one drawback: right in front there are a couple of cup holders and we already know that liquids are not good travel companions for mobile phones.
In favor: its range of engines
The 2022 BMW X1 arrives with a wide range of engines for all tastes and needs. In our test we had the opportunity to drive the two access versions: BMW X1 sDrive18i (1.5-liter three-cylinder engine with 136 hp and 230 Nm) and sDrive18d (a four-cylinder 2.0 turbodiesel with 150 hp and 360 Nm). Both they and those to come will be associated with a seven-speed automatic Steptronic gearbox: there will be no manual versions. And by the way, the lever has been turned into a push button that you simply have to move forward or backward.
After putting ourselves at the controls of the two options, we believe that the BMW X1 sDrive18d is the most balanced choice. Not only because of consumption (5.3 liters in a section that combined secondary roads, dual carriageways and urban traffic), but also because of your behavior: it’s livelier, more playful, it pushes more and having more torque, it responds quicker when you hit the throttle. And with 150 hp, the BMW X1 is more than enough in any situation.
It should be noted that, in 2023, the mechanical range will be completed with the BMW X1 sDrive20i (170 hp and 280 Nm) and sDrive20d (163 hp and 400 Nm). Or what is the same: variants of the engines that we have already tested that will be equipped with 48V light hybridization. It will be followed by the BMW iX1 (an electric SUV with 313 hp and 494 Nm, which promises a range of 413-438 kilometers) and the plug-in hybrids: BMW X1 xDrive25e (245 CV and 92 kilometers of autonomy) and xDrive30e (326 hp and a range of 88 kilometers).
In favor: L Mode and Boost
The third generation of the BMW X1 debuts Mode L in those models equipped with the basic gearbox: with it, the transmission keeps the gears lower and retains more… although, as we said before, not as much as we expected.
The sports Steptronic gearbox, for its part, has paddles on the steering wheel, the well-known D and S Modes and, now, adds the ‘Boost’ function: when activated, a countdown appears before giving us an extra and sportier push, which is perfect for overtaking.
Against the BMW X1 2022: its new size
The new BMW X1 has a much bolder design and more generous proportions: it grows on all fronts. Measure 1,642 meters high (+4.4 centimeters compared to the second generation), 4,500 meters long (+5.3 centimeters) and 1,845 meters wide (+2.4 centimeters). To this must be added a wheelbase of 2,692 meters (+2.2 centimeters) and a track width of 1,592 and 1,593 meters (+3.1 centimeters). The compact SUV has ceased to be and in certain scenarios (narrow streets or curved roads) it shows.
well it is true that the play of lines used in its design makes it seem (even) bigger. It happens with the front, which looks higher due to the position of the grille or the sloping design of the headlights. The cleaner profile line, the more toned shoulders, the squarer wheel arches and the slimmer taillights are some of the innovations that create an optical effect of more width and greater presence on the road.
Against: BMW Curved Display
Or what is the same: BMW’s curved screen that is here to stay. On a single contiguous surface, although virtually divided into two sections, we have the instrument panel (10.25 inches) and the infotainment system (10.7 inches) with the new BMW Operating System 8. A system that improves, but that requires some adaptation because many of its aspects are different from those of the previous generation.
Bringing all settings together on one screen means remove physical controls for air conditioning that, at least, are always visible and accessible at the bottom of the screen. It also highlights the complete absence of manual changes. In its place we find a floating center console that covers the gap between the two seats and that, yes, is beautiful and practical.
Cons: the price
No one is unaware that the price of new cars is experiencing sharp inflation and few models can already be cataloged as accessible to most pockets. The 2022 BMW X1 falls outside this category: the access model (BMW X1 sDrive18d) starts at 40,900 euros. The BMW X1 sDrive18i, meanwhile, is available from 41,700 euros.
When the higher versions arrive, they will, obviously, with higher figures: 43,700 euros for the BMW X1 sDrive20i and 44,900 euros for the BMW X1 sDrive20d. Plug-in hybrids will be in charge of overcoming the barrier of 50,000 euros: BMW X1 xDrive25e (51,900 euros) and BMW X1 xDrive30e (54,900 euros).
Conclusion on the 2022 BMW X1
Finished the extensive review of the new BMW X1, it is time to finish with our conclusions. The third generation is a complete review with remarkable results. BMW’s smallest SUV continues to offer one of the best driving experiences in its segment, an excellent level of technology and plenty of interior space to enjoy it. There are some points that detract from it and its high price cannot be ignored: however, this could be the new benchmark for premium compact SUVs.
