By Sala Masindane

The truth is, we have never been fans of the X1. It always felt like an understudy to the X3 and never had an identity of its own. Enter the third-generation, which ironically resembles the X3. At a glance it might just confuse you for an X3. However, it now feels like the X1 has finally found a design that has changed our minds about the premium compact SUV.

What’s new?

The new model features a larger, almost square Black high-gloss kidney grille, and our test unit is finished in Utah Orange Metallic. The side view has an X3 look, and it is almost the same size as the first-gen X5, while the rear stands out with the rear spoiler. The baby X certainly looks the part, and the design drives home a premium and modern statement. Kudos to the BMW designers.

Interior

Where the most noticeable changes occur is the cabin. It exudes premium and is plush. The new X1 features BMW’s Curved Display formed by a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.7-inch infotainment display with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, wireless charging, and a BMW M steering wheel. The infotainment is intuitive, but the rotary wheel is dearly missed, and so are physical buttons to access the climate control. The cabin offers sufficient space for all passengers, and they also benefit from 540-litres of luggage space, which is decent, especially with soft bags for long trips. Our test unit included optional extras such as a Harman Kardon sound system and a panoramic sunroof.

Performance

The BMW X1 sDrive18d is powered by a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine that produces 110 kW/360 Nm, and it is paired with a seven-speed Steptronic transmission. The 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine delivers punchy acceleration, and the ride on the X1 is comfortable across most terrains. Our time with the X1 returned with a fuel consumption of 5.4l/100km and a range of over 1000km on a full tank. This is good news, especially considering soaring diesel prices.

Final Words

During our review, we were impressed with the BMW X1 sDrive18d. It has grown, offering more space, better interior, great looks, and daily living to match. There could be better refinement, and the pricing of R815,117 may be aggressive for prospective buyers. It will remain to be seen how the third-gen performs in this climate.