BMW X1

The U11 is BMW's latest answer to the compact SUV segment. It is one of the German automaker's entry-level cars, so is it capable of bearing the Bavarian badge? Having tested the M Sport variant, well, not quite. It shares a front-wheel drive platform with the MINI Countryman, which doesn't exactly scream luxury. The 3-cylinder 1.5l engine pumps out 120 horsepower and 230Nm - it isn't exactly too little, but it is quite underpowered especially up against the electric vehicles we now see so often on the road so it makes overtaking slow drivers a little bit of a faff. To change drive modes, you have to access the ever-so-annoying iDrive 9. Sure, it looks cool, but it isn't exactly practical. M Sport suspension works just fine if you're alright with vomiting every 5 minutes. Not exactly the best experience for passengers. It seats 4 just fine but it struggles a little with 5. Features-wise there's no panoramic roof, no storage nets and the centre storage is as useful as a red light on Grand Theft Auto. What do you even put in there (Oh and it opens the wrong way too)?? Build quality is on the decent end. Not great but not the worst. You're better off with the iX1. It's also cheaper.... Read More

After test driving a few other SUVs and crossovers from both premium and Japanese makes, I decided to pull the trigger on the X1 and traded in my 3.5 yr old A4. I took delivery of the M Sport variant close to a month back and so far I've been enjoying every moment I'm behind the steering wheel. At current prices, it's definitely more value for money than non premium brand SUVs or crossovers as most of them are priced way to close to the the X1. I like the way the car looks especially in M Sport trim and the overall interior packaging makes it feel roomier than what the dimensions suggest. Steering is direct and sharp even though it lacks abit of feedback. Ride comfort is on the fiirmer side as the M Sport variant comes with the sports suspension so it might or might not be to everyone's liking. The firmer suspension does provide more precise handling though. Power is sufficient for our roads and overtaking maneuvres are never an issue. The 1.5t 3 cylinder is surprising smooth and makes a rorty note when stretched.... Read More