2019 BMW X1 28i AWD: The German Brand’s Entry-Level SUV

Highlight: In a world of car-based crossovers, this is a traditional styled entry-level SUV.

Test Vehicle’s MSRP: $44,945 (Base Model: $35,945)

Seating Capacity: 4

Standard Safety Features: ABS; airbags; hill descent control; a tire pressure monitoring system; parking distance controls, front and rear; a pedestrian protection system; a frontal collision with city collision mitigation; a lane departure warning system; automatic high beams; a rearview camera; and SOS an automatic collision notification system

Standard Features: 18-inch wheels; run flat tires; rear wheel drive; an 8-speed automatic transmission; a start-and-stop gas saving feature; driving modes: eco, pro, comfort and sport; pseudo leather seats; power front seats with memory drive setting; a manual operated tilt/telescopic steering wheel; an automatic climate control system; front seat adjustable center armrest; a navigation system; real-time traffic information; a push-button start ignition system; and a power tailgate

Optional Features On Test Vehicle: Orange metallic paint; leather seats; heated front seats and steering wheel; LED lights with cornering; Convenience Package: power folding mirrors, universal garage door opener, a keyless entry system, panoramic moonroof, auto dimming interior and driver exterior mirrors, auto dimming rearview mirror, lumbar support, ambient lighting, SiriusXM satellite radio, a Harman/Kardon premium sound system; a rearview camera; a head up display system; a radar activated cruise control system; sliding and reclining rear seats; and parking assistant 


Other Trim Levels:

M Sport

Standard Audio On Test Vehicle: a 205-watt, 7-speaker AM/FM/HD/CD

Bluetooth Connectivity: Yes


Apple Connectivity:  Yes
                                                                                                   
Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles

Powertrain Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles

Standard Engine/Horsepower: 2.0-liter twin-turbo, 4-cylinder/228-hp

Recommended Fuel: Premium

Standard Fuel Mileage: 23-city/32-hwy

What’s New: A navigation system, a rear Apple CarPlay, a rearview camera and a host of driver assistance features are standard this year.  

Why: The stylish and sporty looking X1 is powered by a peppy twin turbo engine, offering a variety of driving modes. According to fueleconomy.gov, the rear-wheel drive X1 has a driving range of 419 miles. The X1 also follows in the footstep of the larger X3, X5 and the upcoming flagship X7 with its traditional SUV styling. The noted models are also configured for a rear wheel drive or an all-wheel drive application.  

Like the larger premium BMW models, the compact X1 can be outfitted with a host of optional features that can enhance both the look and overall feel of the vehicle in terms of luxury appointments.

The 2019 X1 can be outfitted with such optional features as a wireless charger, a Wi-Fi system, a navigation system, a touchpad controller and a heads up display system. Many of the young professionals BMW yearns to attract will be drawn to the brand and this model because of these features.

For those seeking to alter the look and handling capabilities of their X1, they can opt for sport seats, an M sport suspension and sportier rims.

This year, the entry-level model also incudes as standard equipment a rearview camera, a navigation system and such driving safety aids as a lane departure warning system.

But: Also the front seats are like a number of BMW entry level vehicles are extremely firm. Despite the variety of adjustments, this does not aid in providing additional comfort.

And with this being a compact, the tiny infotainment screen isn’t supersized like in some of the higher line models.

Moreover, as far as features, the X1 isn’t compatible with android smartphones. Go figure?

Furthermore, there are some competitors in this premium segment, offering more horsepower.

Verdict: While the X1 is a compact version of its larger siblings, there is no denying that this vehicle should be a member of the BMW family. Its sporty, its stylish and available with an array of features. And one major advantage that the BMW X1 has over other competitors in the segment is that its styled like a traditional boxy SUV and not like a swoopy crossover.

Competition: Audi Q3; Cadillac XT4; Infiniti QX30; Jaguar E-Pace; Land Rover Range Rover Evoque; Lexus NX; Lexus UX; Mercedes-Benz GLA; and Volvo XC40



Near Competitor: Mazda CX-3