Could BMW's X1 be the perfectly sized X?

BY Motlatsi Kekana

Size does matter. In the car context of course. Some cars instantly make you feel at home. In my line of work, we get to be at the wheel of many vehicles. There are cars that leave a lasting impression not because of their beauty or numbers that go along with what’s under the hood, but because their size is so perfect that your body becomes one with the car.

BMW has one such car, the new BMW X1. While other car manufacturers have achieved this as well, this is where the competition gets stiff. However, I believe that BMW’s formula in this segment has simply one-upped the rest. Being behind the wheel of the X1 for a few days was a great pleasure. It is the kind of car that felt like mine after just one day. It is agile, elegant, good-looking, and a perfectly sized piece of metal.

If you have noticed, the X1 has grown a bit. Now with an increased wheelbase, the X1 is evidently bigger standing on the 20-inch alloy wheels. It looks much more attractive than its predecessors. You can’t help but notice this car on the road with such an undeniable presence. Yes, you might think you saw an X3 pass you by quickly. The X1 is powered by a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine, which delivers sufficient power and is perfect for daily use.

My clutter felt right at home in the X1’s spacious cabin. My seven-year-old son, who is also a budding motoring journalist, felt right at home in this car. This was while I was wrapped up in the joy of driving it, and the anxiety of having to let it go a few days later. Speaking of the spacious cabin, BMW delivered comfort with the leather seats (front electronically adjustable), and the legroom sufficient for long trips with kids or friends catered. Being a BMW, of course, the tech is in abundance. The smartphone interface is easy to use, with very quick steps to connect your AppleCarPlay or Android Auto. There are more welcome extras such as wireless charging, a BMW M steering wheel, a panoramic sunroof and to complete the luxury premium feel a Harman Kardon sound system.

The verdict is simple really. As far as premium compact SUVs are concerned, the BMW X1 stands firm among its competitors. The X1 has been refined in ways we never could have imagined. Complementing its good looks and great drive, it delivers on BMW’s promise of sheer driving pleasure. Though built for day-to-day with admirable fuel consumption, it also tempts you to take it out to the track for some drag racing. Whether you want to go on an adventure or perform a few mundane activities, the X1 is versatile enough to handle these needs with flair. The BMW X1 is available in petrol and diesel derivatives.