bmw x1 2021

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bmw x1 2021

Beneath the somewhat unkempt exterior skin of the 2021 BMW X1 is an intimidating bodywork that gives this small SUV a winning character. All X1s come with a 228-hp four-cylinder engine, which delivers a great deal of power and fuel economy. On the twisty road, the ute comes to life and offers plenty of the crisp handling and ride refinement that the BMW brand is known for. Inside, the cabin sleeps four adults, and the large cargo area will easily swallow bags, groceries, and bulky items. Some of the materials found in the market are the underside and a pair of front seats on the shape of the bar chair slightly softens the gloss of the X1. For a sporty compact SUV that wears the trim, check out the mechanically similar X2, which we review separately.

BMW has made very few changes to the X1 for 2021: SiriusXM satellite radio is now standard, and LED fog lights are no longer part of the optional comfort or premium packages. Also, BMW will not allow customers to order sports seats as a standalone option anymore. You must select the M Sport package if you want it.

We’d suggest you stick with the front-wheel-drive sDrive28i, since moving to an all-wheel-drive xDrive model doesn’t entirely improve the X1’s chances of handling the Rubicon track. It’ll also save you $2,000, which we put in the M Sport package, not only because we like its sporty look but because we prefer the sculpted sport seats in the package.

Engine, transmission and performance bmw x1 2021

There’s only one engine and transmission pairing for the X1: a 228-horsepower, 2.0- liter four-cylinder silky engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The fourth turbo provides a lot of pulse in addition to the efficiency and good fuel. In our all-wheel drive test car, we hit 6.3 seconds from a time of 60 mph, making it one of the fastest entries in this class. Front wheel drive is standard. The optional all-wheel drive system favors the front wheels, although up to 100 percent of the engine’s output can flow to the rear for brief moments in low-traction scenarios.

Fuel economy bmw x1 2021

The X1 has competitive fuel economy ratings for its class, even though the Mercedes-Benz GLA250 beats it in city and highway EPA numbers. The HX1 four-wheel drive we tested also delivered just 29 mpg highway, which is 2 mpg less than the EPA rating.

Interior, comfort and cargo bmw x1 2021

The cabin of the X1 is well-equipped with mostly premium materials . But if you look around, you will find evidence of lower costs. The glove box door is as flimsy as a plastic lunchbox, and the concealed container under the front seat, while useful, looks as if BMW bought it in bulk at the dollar store fire sale. The cockpit features a driver-focused design, enhancing the X1’s sporty character. Facing the driver is a business-like instrument cluster that looks elegant and is easy to read at a glance. The driving position is great, although the steering wheel adjustments could use a greater range of motion at both arrival angles. The cargo area is carpeted and decorated with vines and caverns. We were able to fit seven handbags behind the second row and 19 bags with the rear seat folded.

infotainment and connectivity bmw x1 2021

The X1’s standard infotainment system is intuitive, easy to operate on the go, but perhaps a bit outdated. The 8.8-inch iDrive comes with interior navigation, Apple CarPlay (Android Auto not offered), Bluetooth phone, voice connectivity, SiriusXM satellite radio, a USB port and a seven-speaker audio system. Optional Harman/Kardon audio system. To control all of these things, BMW offers a rotating knob in the center console that fits comfortably in the driver’s right hand. The console is surrounded by phone, navigation and other functions shortcut buttons.

Safety and driver assistance features

The X1 earned five stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, but missed last year’s top safety pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety thanks to headlights that scored only marginal points in that agency’s test. Basic driver assistance features are provided at no cost, but more advanced technology requires the addition of option packages. Key safety features include:

Standard Forward Collision Warning

Standard Lane Departure Warning

Standard automatic high beam headlights

Warranty and maintenance coverage

BMW’s limited warranty and powertrain protection are standard for the segment, but the company is improving the deal with three years of free scheduled maintenance. Lexus NX and Lincoln MKC offer the same limited warranties, and offer 6-year or 70,000-mile powertrain coverage, but both come with short periods of free scheduled maintenance.

The limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles

The powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles

Free scheduled maintenance is covered for three years or 36,000 miles

Specifications

Engine type: Turbocharged and intercooler DOHC 16-valve inline-4, aluminum block and head, direct fuel injection

Displacement: 122 m³ in, 1998 cc

Power: 228 bhp @ 5000 rpm

Torque: 258 lb-ft at 1250 rpm

Transmission: 8-speed automatic transmission with manual transmission mode

Dimensions:

Wheelbase: 105.1 in

Length: 175.4 inches