BMW X1

Positives:

• It has a large panoramic sunroof, ambient cabin lighting, and dual-zone climate control, providing comfort across the front and rear rows.

• The X1 features a sleek, curved touchscreen and all-digital instrument display, powered by BMW’s OS8 interface with vivid graphics and multiple cabin transformation modes.

• A unique vertical wireless charging pad with a secure clasp keeps the phone display visible and stable during charging.

• The large 540-litre bootspace is expandable to 1,600 litres via the 40:20:40 flat-folding rear seats.

• The driver’s seating position has a memory function and is electrically adjustable for height, tilt, and reach.

• The rear seats have a nice recline angle, and offer ample legroom and headroom, providing optimum long-distance comfort for two adults.

Negatives:

• The OS8 interface is complex to use while driving, as basic adjustments such as scrolling through menus require some getting used to.
• The absence of the iDrive controller, a longstanding BMW feature, makes interactions with the touchscreen more challenging.
• The positioning of the start button and centre console layout can feel ergonomically off for right-hand-drive setups, given its original left-hand-drive design considerations.

Positives:

• The BMW X1 has scored a five-star rating from the Euro NCAP crash test authority.
• It has front and rear parking sensors, reverse assistance, and a 360-degree camera, aiding visibility in tight spaces.
• There are six airbags, cornering brake control, dynamic stability control with traction control, and ABS with brake assist to protect all occupants.
• It includes basic ADAS functions like lane departure warning and active feedback, front collision warning with brake intervention, and Evasion Assistant.

Negatives:

• Despite some driver assistance features, advanced features like adaptive lane guidance could be more precise for an improved semi-autonomous experience.

Positives:

• Featuring BMW’s signature kidney grille, sculpted bumper with blacked-out inserts, and a distinctive three-dimensional taillamp design, it looks both robust and sophisticated.

• The M Sport model benefits from aggressive design elements, including a body-coloured diffuser, roof-mounted spoiler, and contrasting black roof-rails for a sporty touch.

• The cabin’s dual-tone black and anthracite upholstery with metal inserts and ambient lighting creates a modern, spacious, and upmarket atmosphere.

• The wide dash layout integrates seamlessly with the curved display, showcasing the premium cabin design while accentuating the X1’s modern style.

Negatives:

• The hard plastics used in parts of the lower dashboard and the plastic clasp for the wireless charging pad are out of sync with the rest of the cabin’s premium feel.
• With a deep sill height for rear passengers, entry and exit can be less comfortable, especially for senior passengers.