BMW iX1 review

Pros: Handsome looks, digital interior, nimble handling, refinement.

Cons: Will have to wait until 2023 for the hybrid/electric versions.

 

The BMW X1 returns with strides forward in design, powertrain and technology. Next generation BMW plug-in hybrid technology debuts with even more kilometres possible in a pure electric drive. But it’s the first electric BMW iX1 that’s sure to make waves in the Irish market when it arrives in 2023.

 

 

The BMW X1 has matured into a handsome compact SUV. A bit taller and longer than the model it replaces, the front end now commands more attention thanks to a large, almost square kidney grille flanked by slim new LED lights. At the back, the muscular look is emphasised by strong horizontal lines and large LED light clusters with a 3D effect. There has been a focus on improving the efficiency of all versions of the new X1, so design details like air curtains at the front and new flush door handles help improve aerodynamics. The iX1 can be distinguished by its closed kidney grille and signature blue trim.

 

Trim lines include Sport Premier, xLine Premier and M Sport Premier. The X1 xLine will be the most rugged-looking of all, while M Sport models sit a bit lower to the ground and lose some of the cladding around the wheel arches and sills for a cleaner and sportier look. Wheel sizes are available between 17- and 20-inch for the first time. There is a range of solid and metallic paint finishes and a new ‘frozen’ paint option from BMW Individual.

 

 

A new interior design brings a pleasant touch of modernity to the X1. The brand’s new curved display debuts for the first time, forming an impressive widescreen effect. It combines a full digital driver display with a large control display that uses the latest BMW Operating System 8 and reduces the number of buttons in the cabin for a more minimalist design and improved responses to voice control. Even the ventilation controls are now accessed from the screen. Other features include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and wireless phone charging.

 

Being an X model there are also some more rugged features like the large grab handles and textured decorative inserts in the doors. The quality remains excellent with lots of soft touch materials emphasising the X1’s high-end positioning. There’s also a new floating armrest with storage underneath and a new rocker switch for the gear selection.

 

A longer wheelbase and a little more width make it feel roomier inside than the model it replaces. There is plenty of headroom and an almost flat floor in the rear improves comfort for back seat passengers. The boot has grown to 540 litres in fuel versions. The iX1 only loses about 50 litres, still offering a very respectable 490 litres for a battery-powered compact SUV.

 

 

The more powerful petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid engines come with xDrive all-wheel drive, including the new electric iX1 xDrive30. All versions of the X1 now come with a seven-speed automatic transmission. On the road, improvements to aerodynamics make the X1 more refined than ever and quieter at speed on the motorway. At launch, the entry into the range is the front wheel drive X1 sDrive18d with a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder engine providing 150hp. It posts some of the best efficiency figures of the range, while proving to be adequately powered. The X1 xDrive23d boosts power to 211hp and adds four-wheel drive.

 

When the new X1 plug-in hybrids arrive in the spring of 2023, they will have the ability to drive electric for up to about 89 kilometres. The new electric iX1 promises a competitive range of up to 438 kilometres from a 64.7kWh battery when it arrives around the same time. Agile handling, excellent refinement, and a ‘Boost’ function to access the full 313hp available make it one of the most exciting models of the range. DC rapid charging is possible up to 127 kW, taking about 29 minutes to charge the battery from 10 to 80%. An 11kW AC on-board charger is also standard.

 

 

Pricing for the new BMW X1 starts from €48,200 for the new X1 sDrive18d. The more powerful X1 xDrive23d diesel is priced from €57,800. The X1 xDrive23i petrol is priced from €62,210. Pricing hasn't been confirmed yet for the plug-in hybrids, but the indicated price for the new electric iX1 is €63,995.

 

 

The BMW X1 has matured into one of the most handsome compact SUVS on sale, with a full range of powertrain options, nimble handling, and a stylish and high-quality interior to match. Next generation BMW plug-in hybrid technology in the new X1 will be worth waiting for with up to about 89 kilometres possible in electric drive. But with those good looks, spacious interior, competitive range of over 400 km and fast charging capabilities, it’s the new iX1 that looks set to be one of the most sought after premium electric SUVs to reach Ireland in 2023.