Doesn't he simply imply that he's just not ridiculously fat? I notice that folks from the US generally don't like to say that they are fat af, but say "I'm a big guy" instead
I had a Mini Cooper JCW...the 2010 211 bhp one Every check-up (about 13 k kms) was 510-550€ at the Bmw dealer in Milan (Italy). What a fucking rip-off. It had to go back with a faulty heating sensor or something...basically in the summer it would overheat and tell me stop the engine. I sold that pos at 60k kms. Too bad because it was like driving a go-kart. It is literally cheaper to run my current Mercedes E Class...twice the car in both size and prestige.
I had an R53 COOPER S automatic . Where do I start ..the gearbox might as well have been made of polystyrene, whilst driving it would go into neutral all by itself, then after some seconds it would slam into the next gear, became dangerous to drive around. I grew to loathe it and eventually sold it for nothing. I hope the new AISIN gearboxes like the one in this x1 are as robust as the ZF units you get on rear-wheel-drive beemers
Everybody want to ball but nobody got the stacks!!
4 года назад+30
Everyone really wants the X3 or X5...but what do you do when you want a status symbol but your credit can't take a 80k€ hit? Have an X1...still comes with the symbol and most of the neighbours won't even know the difference.
I am 200 cm tall or about 6'5", I weigh 230 pounds, and I fit in X1 just fine. In fact, it's of a perfect size. But I drove it and said "meh". Paid a little to more to buy X3, which is unfortunately too large, too heavy, but drives much better. The sacrifices we have to make as car people. {Update: X1 was better than Volvo XC40, which was on top of my list until I drove it.}
japanwatchconnection I have driven both a Audi Q7 and a Mazda CX-9. The CX9 was, imo, a better car. My old Q7 left me stranded (for the fifth time in like 7 years) with a dead ecu. The Audi’s infotainment just pissed me off. It’s too fiddly, and the car doesn’t drive that special. The mazda is more fun than my old Q7 (mostly because of how easy it is to hit turbo boost) and is more practical. And it was half the price of the Audi. I’m just trying to share my experience.
its really interesting how in the north american market people make fun of the 4 cylinder and the "lack" of power thereof, but when you look at the road structure, style of driving then you realize that you will probably be fine with a 1.0 liter engine. in europe its complete opposite where driving style is much more aggressive, people drive faster, the whole driving culture is different yet people drive waaaay underpowered cars. a typical higway in america is just driving constantly 70mph whereas in europe due to the smaller size of roads and much faster driving, there is almost constant overtaking, accelerating, braking etc.
Vlatko.R because we are used to having more power, just because a 100 horsepower is adequate doesn’t mean people don’t want more. And driving in the US is different, just because highways have 65-70 mph speed limits doesn’t mean people follow them, in the US the culture is more drive as fast as you can without the nazi cops getting your ass. And American highways unfortunately are not constant speed, trucks are always trying to pass in the left lane and people just sit in the passing lane so driving fast on the highway usually involves a lot of right lane passing
I take your point, but there’s more difference between Europe and US than just that. Here, there is zero penalty for having a gigantic car or truck, and zero benefit for small size. An F350 dually truck fits fine in every parking space and on every road. Even when gas is expensive here it’s 1/2 the price of Europe. Here, many of us spend 4 hrs or more in the car per day. Many of us drive 100 miles a day, 5 days a week. Here, many of us work on our own cars, which is un-European comparatively. And I’m not sure, but I think we turn cars over faster than Europe. Finally, here EVERYONE has a car as public transport isnt really an option. Hell, I have 8 of them! So it’s different, and maybe this BMW turd makes sense in Europe. Here, you can have twice the car for half of the money as the BMW, which will also be unreliable and expensive to repair.
It's crazy how crap that rear section of the centre console looks (rear vents). Looks like junk from miles away. Compare that against the rear vents in say an E39, from 1996! It's nuts.
Some of us don’t want to buy a large SUV because 1. we live in a big city with limited parking space and size and 2. we may already have a large SUV such as the X5. Such as us when we went shopping as we wanted to upgrade our Audi A3 wagon. We needed something roomy but could still fit in our driveway along with the X5 as we have tandem parking. This new vehicle needed to also carry both kids and a hockey bag and stick. Oh and since we’re in Canada AWD capability is a nice have. We’re also fortunate that we are able to afford a luxury brand. Let me tell you this thing has been great, it drives more like a car as your height is somewhere between an suv and a sedan. Great views, massive amount of cargo, good drivetrain, stiff suspension for some fun and small enough to zig and zag in the city and to park anywhere you want. It’s worth what we paid, you’re buying a depreciating asset no matter how you look at it. Having a car is a luxury in itself and of all the X models this one is built in Germany and yes it feels very European and made for European roads and driving which we love. It’s been perfect for us and we often take it for road trips vs our 2014 X5 as we also put our bike and ski rack on the X1 as the X5 is too high sometimes to reach things on the roof rack. Also yes it’s FWD biased but seriously unless you’re buying a sports car and going to the track fwd is more efficient and safer. I think we need more compact all purpose vehicles vs having larger parking lots.
@japanwatchconnection I've had to drive a X1 m25i as a courtesy car (it was a 2018). I was very unimpressed, a Chevy Equinox is a good description. Felt hollow, cheap and pointlessly high.
I’ve driven both... was disappointed to learn that the steering feel in the Equinox was more “BMW” than the X1... also rode the new Cadillac XT4... honestly found the Equinox driving dynamics better than both. Interior of the Equinox was obviously lacking compared to the others... looks like the Mazda CX-5 would be the overall winner here if they could get more power out of that engine. I’m yet to test the Lincoln Corsair but recommended someone test drive it and they end up buying it. Without driving one, I think I like the Volvo XC40 best.
Michael Hammoud I bought a 2017 cx-5 grand touring AWD a few weeks ago. Super happy with the performance so far. You mentioned engine power being a problem, I think it drives great, especially for the price point. I would say you probably say you get more value for your money as any other vehicle honestly. I trust the engine and transmission long term, it has great suspension, 10 speaker bose audio, leather interior. It feels like a luxury car for the price of a Toyota or Honda. If you are considering buying a vehicle in this segment I would definitely give it a test drive.
... but apparently BMW is doing something right with the X1. It is the most succesful X Model worldwide and even one the most top selling cars of BMW´s whole lineup. Not everywhere in the world are the roads as wide as in th US 😉 Greetings from BMW Town, Munich, Germany ✌️
I’m from the U.K. and have owned a X1 2.0i X-drive for over 2 years. I have also been employed for 30 years in the automotive industry so am in a good position to offer a valid opinion on various motor vehicles. In X-Line spec my X1 has been a revelation in every department, which is more than can be said for the 2017 VW Tiguan R-Line 4 motion which I own along with its faulty DSG Gearbox and low rent interior! As a family guy it accommodates everything that has been thrown at it, coping admirably with the UK’s poor roads and on long drives where 55mpg from a petrol unit is considered quite a feat and as good as the fuel economy from my VW Tiguan which has a Diesel engine. Overall I’m very happy with this purchase and would consider another X1 when I am ready to change.
interesting - I am in market for X3-- trading a '21 RDX awd tech package, and the more I read about the X1, the more I like it. Just as big and quick as X3 but but way less $
@@rl6210 since posting my comment 1 year ago I have changed my wife’s X1 2.0i - X-Line - X-Drive for a 2021 model which is better than the 2018 model owned previously. It has better standard kit and mild hybrid tech which helps with acceleration. I also have a X3 M40d on order since July 2021 with an expected delivery date of May 2022! Go buy you will not be disappointed!
Great thorough review as usual. I happen to be on my second X1, the first version of this was pretty cheap feeling but the newer version is quite nice and my wife and I really love love this vehicle. We got a great end of year deal on a loaded model so it was a good value.
realistically for the demographic buying something like this they probably don't even know or care. For the same price they are getting a car with way more leg room than the old X1. For most non car people that is a plus over the old X1
I understand your comments, in my opinion m240i and m2/competition were the best new bmw you can buy (and more affordable for a bmw) in terms of power/weight maybe that's why i made this emotional comment. With that being said, BMW is cheating on customers by using cheaper platform and not dropping the price down. You are still in 50 000+ $ for a fwd biased crossover. With 45 000 you can get Kia Teluride full specced.
@@mikaylabaradat people value different things in cars. I value quality of interior which was horrible in the CX-5. One of the worst i have ever seen. Secondly in driving dynamics they are classes apart. The new 2020 X1 hybrid is a masterclass for is price.
@@peterhammer6915 You're a tough critic, I guess lol. I think to say that the quality of the Mazda's interior is 'horrible' is a bit of a hyperbole, it's still a $30,000+ car. I have friends and family members with X1's and X3's and the interior just felt stiff and uncomfortable to me, and the drive also felt very stiff, but to each their own!
we leased the previous gen and it has been one of my favorites, a dorky box but the e46 chassis was perfect, the car flew and was outstandingly fun in snow, this one without the chassis being near 50/50 is a challenge to convince me of enjoyment long term. I do like the cargo area and its well received in demos, the 2GC, I am still thinking on how to talk it up in a review, it looks like a corolla and the plastic inside it is scary to look at. Great review guys thanks!
Got 1st gen X1 as my first car, and I am still keeping it. It's done over 100kkm already. Every piece is falling down. I spend thousands of dollars fixing it but never regretted it. Driving it is so satisfying. Actually, the chassis was from e91 wagon though.
$50k for that trash. SMH. Get huyndai and better car for money and warranty. This gona be money pit in couple of years. Luxury for BMW is more plastic. Even get Mazda
Pretty tough review gents. I just bought X1 Sdrive. It’s a great car and dollar for dollar good value against what Mercedes and Audi are offering. This is my 6th BMW. My last 2 cars were a BMW V8 M3 and Porsche Mecan S. The X1 is excellent. It’s a compact cross over with shorter wheelbase for better manoeuvrability. Yes the ride is a little firm, but it’s not designed a grand tourer. The fact that everything works exactly how it is designed to work puts a smile on my face as an owner. It does what is meant to do.
The F48 is built on the BMW UKL platform. That is not a Mini platform; it is developed by BMW for FWD-based cars built by the group. The F48 for instance used it before the Countryman. The interior space is very close to the X3, so I'd like to hear what it exactly lacks in comparison to the X3. The body is slightly narrower, but that's pretty much it. Also, since it has the room of the X3 - how much less of a "value car" the X3 is if this is not? How does the X1 compare to its rivals, like the Q3 or GLA/B, you're constantly comparing it to more expensive BMW models. It sells more than Q3 and GLA combined in Europe so I guess they've done something right which doesn't come across in this video. If the X3 is really that exciting to drive compared to the X1, I bet the 3-series must blow your minds.
I have driven all the main competitors of X1 incl. Volvo, Merc, Audi and the X1 was easily the best of the bunch. We opted for 4-wheel drive 20i. Don't know what this guy is talking about. This is not the first video where he bashes BMW. Probably not the last either.
These sell like crazy in asia ,its a big hit!.Agreed its not the BMW you like but cant say its boring and plain. These guys sound terribly boring and plain.Ive driven this and its plenty fun and holds it own extremely well .
As a german, i am mostly unsatisfied the way german automakers asks for overrated cars just for the badge. Go und leave those german cars in the halls of your car dealers and maybe some day Germans understand that der badge on the front of your car is not enough to compete anymore.
I think reliability is an important consideration. When looking at crossovers which are appliance vehicles, reliability makes a huge difference. If you're gonna own this for more than 5 years/100K miles, I'd consider the reliability of the RDX over the BMW any day
Jeron Wong I would take the F sport Lexus RX350 which looks cool and has a really upscale interior and even more reliable then the RDX and holds a higher resale value but I think the RX F sport cost more also
@@Toyota4Life base RDX is 37.8K while base RX 350 is 44.2K, not an insignificant amount. RDX is more fun to drive if equipped with SH-AWD, but like you said Lexus should have a more upscale interior, more reliability, and higher resale value. Just a question of whether you're able to/willing to spend an extra 6.4K for it
@@wigletron2846 Pretty easy to gauge this by seeing the huge inventory of ~3 year old CPOs at BMW dealerships. The price tag on the X1/2 is just ridiculous imo. I'd take a previous gen 3 or 5 series any day. Don't see the appeal of small CUVs like this, especially with not-so-small price tags...
Wigletron I’ve heard 80-90 percent of BMWs are in fact leased. The best deal is to buy one just off lease as a CPO and dump it before the warranty expires.
Not sure that I agree with you on several points: In the entry level luxury market, the X1 is much more engaging to drive than the Audi Q3 or the Volvo XC40. It hugs the road better, has tighter and more responsive steering, faster acceleration and better gas mileage. The interior quality of the X1 is also better than the Q3. You found the seats uncomfortable, but your review car had the sport seats (which are very rare in the X1). Personally, I find them much more comfortable than the standard seats which are too flat and short for me. But That’s a question of personal comfort. You could save a small amount of money and get a loaded Mazda CX-5. It’s a nice car, but I hate that there’s no panoramic sunroof and I found the seats in the Mazda to be pretty awful and the tech a bit outdated. It also has lower gas mileage. I haven’t driven the new RDX, but it’s nearly a foot longer than the X1, so that puts it in a different category altogether for people who want something smaller and Acura customer satisfaction rates in recent years are lousy according to Consumer Reports and other auto press. The X1 is mainly sold in urban areas where people want a small car that’s easy to park and maneuver. In some urban areas, the X1 is out selling the 3 series. Sure, you could get a Honda, Ford, Toyota or Kia for less money, but they’re no where near as engaging to drive as the X1. The X1 does have road noise, but it’s mainly due to the stock run flat tires. Get a spare tire kit and swap them out for a decent set of non run flat performance tires and that should solve the problem. I agree that BMW nickel and dimes you. It’s unacceptable that they don’t come standard with blind spot monitoring for example. Is the X1 perfect? No. But when comparing apples to apples in the entry level luxury cross over market, I’ve found it to be a very strong contender and with comparable pricing. One last point: Your comment that the X1 has the same drivetrain as the Mini is mistaken. The Mini Cooper S models have a 189 hp engine. The X1 has a 248hp engine with more torque. At 0-60 in 6.3 seconds, X1 accelerates faster than all S model Minis. Anyway, just my two cents 🙃
I think they meant the Mini countryman. BMW owns MINI and both cars belong to the compact crossover class. So I won't be surprised to learn that they share platforms.
It's crazy how people now think a vehicle that does a sub-15 second quarter is something to laugh at. In the 90's, that'd be considered a v8 sports car territory.
kalel33 Agreed. AMG just made a 4 cylinder with 400hp. And, you see plenty of Golf Rs and Evos with even more power in the aftermarket community. 4 cylinders are nothing to laugh at.
The reason it's small (in my opinion), is that it is targeted at women drivers... And it makes sense, here in Europe at least, most small SUV-s (and bigger ones too) are driven by ladies for some reason. Maybe it is a sense of security, maybe it's prestiege, both very likely, but women really like them.
I think it's the same in the states, they feel more secure and it's usually rich moms / women who's rich husbands buy it for them = in prestige? (or atleast that's the stereotype). I think we prefer smaller because our roads are smaller in europe and the uk. Like it's a rarity to see 150 ford pickups here. It's literally an event for me when i see one here in the uk.
You guys miss the point entirely. These are ultra-practical city runabouts with heaps of space. They are the German version of the Honda Jazz. They're similar to the Mercedes B180/B200 only a bit smaller. People love this size of car.
People made fun of it when it came out, but the first generation X1 is better. You could get a 35i, it was RWD biased, and wasn’t a reskinned countryman.
I cross shopped cx5/3/30 and preowned x1s. The Mazdas felt A LOT slower than the BMW. Ended up with a 2016 CPO X1 with 20k miles for less than a new (base) cx5. New off the lot, the X1 makes no sense. As a used car, it rules.
They really aren't. Too small and uncomfortable. I've been in a BMW dealership a while ago to check out series 2 Gran Tourer, which was terrible, but also checked X line up, which were equally terrible, said "hell no" to all X and Gran/Active Tourer and that was my last BMW dealership visit. Don't understand what the fuss is with BMW cars - they are uncomfortable, overpriced and unreliable.
Drive this before you judge it. It is so much better than the mazda. More power, more fuel efficient, better interior all around, moon roof, smooth, fast for normal people, etc. Buy it CPO for 25k for a 45k model. Can't do better if you want a small suv. Look at interior specs, it is larger than the x3 in many ways in the interior....
Its a CUV. They are appliances that people for some reason people buy. No passion went into my microwave either, and I bought it. sometimes you just gotta let bmw make money so they can fund their passion cars.
Another spot-on review. These things are so f’ing boring. It looks like someone slapped a BMW badge and some kidney grilles on a CR-V. The upcoming GLA at least looks a bit more interesting. But think about how much you could load up a CX-5 for this price. I’d much rather have a 3-series wagon, but that’s no longer an option.
I have a 2017 x1 in Black Sapphire. I got it CPO with 20k miles for $27k in November, 2018. It was pretty loaded with a $45k sticker. I did a few things cosmetically. I put gloss black 19's that fit more flush. I blacked out the window trim, kidney grills, and all of that weird matte silver trim BMW sticks on the exterior. I always mod my cars. Objectively, what I've done makes my x1 a head turner. It doesn't have shift paddles. Its not really comfortable not really sporty. The engine is linear and has a little punch but leaves a lot to be desired. The transmission feels decent in M but in S and D is pretty awful. It certainly doesn't have that "mind reading" magic programming. My mk6 GTI 's DSG mops the floor with it. To be fair though, that was the best part of that car. The sound system sounds good with tuning for the music I listen to. Visibility is exceptionally good. The interior overall feels nice. Much classier than my dad's MDX. I test drove a q3 and gla before I bought it. It runs circles around both of them in just about every way. It wasn't even close. The brand new q3 could give it a run. I needed something with more room than my GTI and the AWD for winter. I'm getting tired of it. I want something that knows what it is. Either sporty or luxurious and comfy. At this price point you can't have both. Been checking CPO Golf R prices daily. Thanks for reading.
@@bassandtrebleclef I would say the looks of it if you spec and/or mod it correctly doesn't follow that rule. It really has nice proportions and some sleekness depending on your viewing angle
I own an x1 and can relate I really wish they would come out with M variant with a six cylinder go back to rwd and make the interior a little more luxurious
@japanwatchconnection the X1 is a BMW in name only ... look at the pic I've owned many dumbass . I'd rather drive my sister's CX-5 2.5t over the junk X1/X2's I get as loaners anyday
I agree with a lot of points in the review, but I really don’t see how NX, CX5, etc that you listed are competitors to this car. X1 is the fastest CUV with some of the top fuel economy in its class. The rear passenger space rivals X3 and the trunk space is bigger than GLC. All its done with 10% less weight and smaller dimensions to those cars. Best of all, unlike x3 to x7, this car is made in Germany. It’s simpler drivetrain also means it is a lot more reliable than the popular x3 and x5. Not to mention thanks to its front wheel biases all wheel drive system, it will outperform most BMW in snowy and off road. So it’s a jack of all trade car that will simply perform everywhere. And if you want some real fun, you can always disable the DSC and go aftermarket to tune up the car. I think X1’s only rival is the XC40. But that car simply drives worse, and have a smaller trunk than the X1. I think if you add up the math on the “spreadsheet”, this car makes all the sense. If you are not satisfied, go aftermarket.
Grant Hemstreet I wish the CX-5 is competitive enough. But its transmission is quite a bit worse, steering too. Interior quality is also much worse, simply different class (even though it’s pretty good compare to other Japanese cuvs). IDrive of BMW is class leading in infotainment, not to mention wireless Apple CarPlay which CX-5 doesn’t have. Paint job of CX-5 is soft and very easily scratched compared to the paint on the X1. The pano roof of CX-5 is also tiny compared to the X1. The list go on! Why do I know all these details? Cus I considered that car too. I love Mazda. So no, cx-5 is not a competitor IMO. It’s outclassed in all areas. I wouldn’t get a CX-5. Model Y on the other hand outclass both X1 and XC40 though.
@@happycamperjack The CX-5 with Turbo has near identical performance but comes with heated and cooled seats, heated steering wheel, a HUD (which is a VERY addictive feature -- once you drive with a HUD its something you will always want to have), folding power mirrors, windshield wiper de-icer, a better Bose stereo and way better materials inside for $2k less than the base X1 which comes with none of these features. To spec out the X1 to the same level is another $8k. The X1 does have better paint I will grant you that. The pano roof is a gimmick. That thin material cover BMW uses screams cheap. The Mazda is also a bit bigger inside. Its no X3 but its bigger than the X1. This is why it outsells the X1 in the US.
I should also add -- the Mazda has bigger wheels for those that give a damn about that. The way BMW nickels and dimes you for basic features is absurd. They want $1k extra for adaptive cruise control. Even the base cheapo CX-5 comes with that standard.
@@michaelb7437 The fact is, if you go top trim with mx-5 vs X1, there’s no comparison. MX-5 just feels cheap inside out. It lacks the attention to details that the X1 have and feels like an imitation of Bmw’s interior. And stuffs like non-flat loading trunk and poorer transmission (not that X1’s Toyota transmission is as good as a ZF) are kinda deal breakers. But honestly, I’d just spend a bit more on a model y. It’s gonna be a lot cheaper in the long term.
His face says it all. He basically hates this car lol. I just bought one and I love it. It’s as much or more fun to drive than my 17 GTI. As he said the drivetrain is what you’re paying for with the X1. The cabin might be older BMW style but it gives you a great sense of space and openness and it’s more comfortable than the 3 series I drove because you’re not wedged up against the center console. The materials are solid too. I have no complaints. The iDrive is easy to use. I agree the sound system is pretty bad, useable but it should be way better for the price point.
It makes no sense to get a SubCompact luxury SUV, CUV. Get a compact mainstream SUV like the CX5 with more options. I dont know any brand in the luxury category that offers good value in the SubCompact category. And they mention it here, Audi, Lexus, MBZ.
I bought a base model 2018 X1 sDrive28i brand new. The X1 is a lot like the 230i coupe. It's great as long as you get a base model. Mine came with optional heated seats and steering wheel and floor liners with FWD, not AWD, and kept to a sticker price of $36,540 and I got it for $29,000 after discounts and rebates. If bells and whistles are a big thing, step up to an X3 or X5. You are not going to get the value out of a fully equipped AWD X1 at $45,000+. The engine and transmission are wonderful. Only the base seats are a problems but I've gotten used to it. But for what it is in base model form, it's just what I needed, but I would never get this kind of a vehicle stuffed with options, and frankly the simplicity of the base model is one of my favorite things about the X1.
Also the Acura RDX is atrocious--that bulky annoying center console is horrible. Also that vehicle competes more with the X3 than the X1, as it is more expensive than this BMW and is larger & heavier. Makes sense why you would get nicer options in it.
When I was shopping for a BMW SUV in 2018 I went to the dealer and thought, let me try the cheapest one first. I'm 6'2" and 240 lbs. I open the X1 driver's door, put my ass in the seat and couldn't swing my legs inside. Oh well I guess it's an X3 for me 😀
I'm 6'4 and 240 and own a 2017 x1, I fit fine and just drove it on a 700 mile road trip with no issue. Just gotta move the seat back and the steering wheel up.
Commenting on a two year old video is silly but I don't think there was enough attention given to the controls. I'm surprised you didn't give it more praise for physical controls. The price in Canada is actually not that bad. I compared it to an identically equipped Mazda CX5 AWD Turbo and it was only about 10% more. That's a price I'm willing to pay for the badge, physical controls, superior AWD and driving characteristics, and more cargo space.
Agree with everything you mentioned. I have driven a fully loaded X1 25i for a few days as a loan car. It's not bad, but it fails to give any special feelings to the driver. It's quick and shifts smooth, the 4wd works well for city roads and it's well equipped with same techs as other BMWs and it's quite spacious for what it is. But it's not an "ultimate driving machine" like old BMWs. Even Mini Countryman offers better driving feels and characters than X1. IMO, owners of this car are badge snobs and they don't care about cars, they want an appliance and they pay extra for that badge. If they are rational and want a white appliance, RAV4, CRV, Forester, CX-5 or any other cheaper city SUVs are far better options. If they care about driving, I can't see the reason of choosing a city SUV.
X1 has almost the same amount of space inside as x3, it is only a bit narrower. It has the same 4 cylinder engine but it is 400 pounds lighter so it drives much better, is more lively, agile and has a better mpg.It drives like a car and not like a big heavy suv and that was very important for me and my wife.We have tested many cars x1 x3, audi q3, mercedes, lexus nx.Bmw x1 is the best in driving, economy, space inside, quality! X3 only with r6 engine!!
My wife has a 2019 xDrive. Lease is coming up in Nov 2022 so in this market it's a steal to buy. I usually end up riding in back seat. Back seats don't have enough thigh support. I'm used to riding in back of my Lexus RX350 with a TON of seat recline, so the X1 seats are frustrating for me to get comfortable...like I'm sitting up in a 90-degree position...uncomfortable. Dirty sock smell from AC a few months after we leased it. Paid BMW $100 to get smell out and they couldn't even fix it, so...living with that. There are VERY few little cubbies in front OR back to "toss" things into. I always use the door handle cup for various little items and the X1 has NO door handle cups!! Frustrating!! We bought a nylon bag that straps across both seats and hangs in the middle that we can toss things into. Run-flats are noisy. I find it very odd that there is NO sun visor/tint strip built into the windshield?? Not sure if BMW does this on everything?? We are constantly pulling down the sun visor when a little sun is coming in. My wife is 4'11" and likes the visibility out the front. X3 dash obscures visibility a bit more (although I would PREFER the X3...but it's not my choice). Wife likes the Apple CarPlay. Memory seats sometimes get confused between the two sets of keys and two different Profiles. Smartphone integration is nice to locate vehicle, see how much gas in the tank, if doors locked, etc. 228HP is plenty of power and Sport Mode tightens-up steering and shift-points nicely.
seems like in this segment. Makes sense to just get a fully loaded regular car. Im having trouble wanting this over a signature cx5 with the turbo. But that might just be me.
You pay a premium price for a vehicle that is not as good as some others in its class, all to get that BMW badge on the hood. Then you pay twice the cost of service than you would if you were driving a Honda or Toyota or Mazda. Finally, when you go to sell that wonderful BMW, you discover that it has depreciated twice as fast as a Honda, Toyota or Mazda. Ah, but you had the pleasure of knowing you were driving a BMW!
Great review as always! I recently got a 2016 x1 (same body style) with almost all the options (heated seats & steering wheel, 19 in wheels, backup cam with sensors, sliding rear seats, pano roof, folding mirrors, power lift gate, cornering led headlights, and much more!) with 50k miles for $20k USD. I think at that price, it's a great bargain. It's quick, comfy but quick and nimble ride, and it feels like a BMW when you drive it haha.
I feel this on a personal level. I sell BMW. The X1 is selling very well right now for us. Not a bad value CPO for about 22k with low miles.. but it has no soul. At all. It's strictly A to B but it does that fine I suppose.
You view vehicles the way I do Mark, I enjoy your reviews. My cousin just bought one of these things and he is a corporate guy as well, a CEO actually. I told him to get an Acura RDX, like you stated it gives you a better value proposition and better reliability as well! But he went ahead and got the boring little BMW Mini copy instead. Oh well, typical corporate guy I guess! lol Savagegeese is da best! :-)
@@ian2183 The Maxi Village Idiot is an offence against car design! The Mini was designed in the 60s to be that shape to maximise internal space in a tiny city car. By making that shape gigantic BMW are screaming MORON at themselves!
In italy it's a good selling car. It's practical and premium enough to most of the people. In europe people buys a lot of these cars, and we don't consider them small. We consider an X5 huge. I bought one for my family for 39k euros, and it's an automatic diesel, with all optionals we need and we are fine. Not the best suv in the world for shure, but a solid one.
I love Savagegeese but it appears that if he's not into a particular model, his review suffers from it too ( like Equinox recently) and seems half hearted...
These are super popular where I live. The people around me are rich and can buy whatever they want. I see these way more than the X3. Probably cuz people don’t care about the subtle differences and this is $10k less.
This is a great crossover for somebody who can't afford a better vehicle or who doesn't know you can get a much better/cooler vehicle for the same price or way less.
"I am a smaller guy I've always been a smaller guy in every single area of my body". when he said that last bit I think everyone thought what I thought
Do you think this vehicle was targeting a female demographic? Might explain the tighter front seats. They may have been trying to make a practical mom mobile.
Unless you’re getting a 25% discount, this doesn’t make sense. When we drove it, the front seats felt really narrow and uncomfortable. BMW cheaps out on every car, so that’s not really a surprise. What was surprising was lack of comfort. BMW seats are usually pretty good. Not here.
littlemuffin1 the mini is a lot more sportier I test drove this and a mini All 4 Paceman S and bout the low mileage paceman. The BMW was kind of boringingly perfect, my wife chose the quirky Mini Paceman, hope that helps.
@@men8212 Since i have three of them and had zero issues i'd say you don't know too much about them. Two of them are driven all year long thru Winter in Alberta Canada with zero issue. The paceman sits outside all day in minus 40 and has never failed to start.
*"I've always been a smaller guy, in every single area of my body"*
No added comment necessary. That's just outrageous.
His wife knew what she signed up for. Lol
I dont think he is married. He used to have a girlfriend, now it's just him and Jack.
@@shadowsocks7472 his boyfriend is happy with the slug
Small dong
I felt this
The official car of 'leaving your cart next to the car because the stall is too far away'
🤣😂😂
Or "Parking next to the stall and leaving the cart leaned against the outside of the stall"
Driven by people who are passionate about exercising yet cannot return things to their original, intended place.
Damn this for being true
Rcr
BMW moving some product to FWD with turbo 4c and Mazda/Toyota moving some product to RWD with NA inline 6. Wouldn't have guessed that 5 years ago.
Or this having an Aisin/Toyota transmission.
Toyota switched one of their vehicles to rwd?
@@alansmilealot There's a rumor going around that they will use Mazda's new inline six in some models.
@@ARentz07 I'm guessing the Future MK6 Supra with twin turbos? Imagine tho
@@ryadhasanahmed5443 Imagine... Yet, I'm more suspicious of the new Lexus IS and RC. Those need new engines.
Things you should never say on a first date: "I'm a smaller guy in every single area of my body."
ilysm
Doesn't he simply imply that he's just not ridiculously fat?
I notice that folks from the US generally don't like to say that they are fat af, but say "I'm a big guy" instead
Wait I'm not supposed to tell them the truth. Okay lying I will have to start doing. That'll make me more attractive like every other guy. LOL
X1, if a Mini wasn't enough of an expensive disaster for you.
LOL! Such a good tag line.
I had a Mini Cooper JCW...the 2010 211 bhp one
Every check-up (about 13 k kms) was 510-550€ at the Bmw dealer in Milan (Italy).
What a fucking rip-off. It had to go back with a faulty heating sensor or something...basically in the summer it would overheat and tell me stop the engine. I sold that pos at 60k kms.
Too bad because it was like driving a go-kart.
It is literally cheaper to run my current Mercedes E Class...twice the car in both size and prestige.
I had an R53 COOPER S automatic . Where do I start ..the gearbox might as well have been made of polystyrene, whilst driving it would go into neutral all by itself, then after some seconds it would slam into the next gear, became dangerous to drive around. I grew to loathe it and eventually sold it for nothing. I hope the new AISIN gearboxes like the one in this x1 are as robust as the ZF units you get on rear-wheel-drive beemers
japanwatchconnection wow wut a flex
@@men8212 must not have a new 2020 JCW w/the 300hp.. ;) love my clyde a 2020 JCW Countryman...
FWD vs. RWD. It's alright, the dealership will tell you its rear-wheel drive if you ask.
no all wheel drive :)
BMW asked buyers what wheels they thought were powering there vehicle and the majority of BMW buyers thought they were FWD.
@@foch3 Well... modern BMW drivers may have some intellectual... deficiencies.
@@foch3 urban legend or they asked only sweet 17 girls.
They say so bc fwd is cheaper to made, so they can earn more.
@@foch3 that was among new 1 series owners in Europe circa 2010
These sell like hotcakes in Europe. In Portugal, where I'm from I see them around most days.
Everybody want to ball but nobody got the stacks!!
Everyone really wants the X3 or X5...but what do you do when you want a status symbol but your credit can't take a 80k€ hit? Have an X1...still comes with the symbol and most of the neighbours won't even know the difference.
Dave C. Or they just buy it cuz Europeans streets are way narrower compared to the US and gas prices are way higher compared to the US?
And the sad part these cars in Portugal are so damn expensive for no reason at all, even a freaking KIA is expensive.
Yeah they’re all company cars though. People don’t want them out of choice
Savagegeese is not the car reviewer we expected, but he is the car reviewer we needed.
precisely :)
David M well said
yup!
I'm 6'3" and 220, I'm very comfortable on long road trips in these seats. Just need to extend the lower thigh support.
Please donate me some of ur height. I’m only 5’5 😭😭😭
Maybe Mark underestimated the deformation factor then?
Same. 6’2 and 265. Wasn’t a problem at all on a road trip.
Don't fall asleep, Mark
In these difficult economic times, it's always good to know that we can invest our money in new cars.
lmao
In these difficult economic times, It's good to know the AD agencies are not losing $$$. AD execs are out looking for new SeaRay's this summer.
😂
Always a payment away from greatness.
If I invest my money in a new BMW, I'll be able to earn money from the interest.
Ha ! I knew it was Wrong wheel drive and shared the underpinnings with some MINI. Gotta spread those production costs. 😁
I am 200 cm tall or about 6'5", I weigh 230 pounds, and I fit in X1 just fine. In fact, it's of a perfect size. But I drove it and said "meh". Paid a little to more to buy X3, which is unfortunately too large, too heavy, but drives much better. The sacrifices we have to make as car people. {Update: X1 was better than Volvo XC40, which was on top of my list until I drove it.}
This is what happens when you build something that only rides on the reputation of its badge
I agree, compared to something like a fully loaded CX-5, the BMW is more expensive and inferior by pretty much every objective measurement.
Exactly
@japanwatchconnection and you think the Phyllis Diller on wheels that is its sister Buick somehow is any better? Sod off
Steve E CX-5 is slower, handles a lot worse, and have a tiny trunk. It’s not even close man
japanwatchconnection I have driven both a Audi Q7 and a Mazda CX-9. The CX9 was, imo, a better car. My old Q7 left me stranded (for the fifth time in like 7 years) with a dead ecu. The Audi’s infotainment just pissed me off. It’s too fiddly, and the car doesn’t drive that special. The mazda is more fun than my old Q7 (mostly because of how easy it is to hit turbo boost) and is more practical. And it was half the price of the Audi. I’m just trying to share my experience.
This car screams get a Mazda CX-5 turbo
Yes! Get the Mazda CX-5 Signature instead. Better and more reliable. I own a 2019 CX-5 Signature and I am very happy with it!
japanwatchconnection interesting. Are you suggesting bmw is more reliable than mazda? Hmm that’s an unexpected stance to take.
its really interesting how in the north american market people make fun of the 4 cylinder and the "lack" of power thereof, but when you look at the road structure, style of driving then you realize that you will probably be fine with a 1.0 liter engine. in europe its complete opposite where driving style is much more aggressive, people drive faster, the whole driving culture is different yet people drive waaaay underpowered cars. a typical higway in america is just driving constantly 70mph whereas in europe due to the smaller size of roads and much faster driving, there is almost constant overtaking, accelerating, braking etc.
Vlatko.R because we are used to having more power, just because a 100 horsepower is adequate doesn’t mean people don’t want more. And driving in the US is different, just because highways have 65-70 mph speed limits doesn’t mean people follow them, in the US the culture is more drive as fast as you can without the nazi cops getting your ass. And American highways unfortunately are not constant speed, trucks are always trying to pass in the left lane and people just sit in the passing lane so driving fast on the highway usually involves a lot of right lane passing
I take your point, but there’s more difference between Europe and US than just that. Here, there is zero penalty for having a gigantic car or truck, and zero benefit for small size. An F350 dually truck fits fine in every parking space and on every road. Even when gas is expensive here it’s 1/2 the price of Europe. Here, many of us spend 4 hrs or more in the car per day. Many of us drive 100 miles a day, 5 days a week. Here, many of us work on our own cars, which is un-European comparatively. And I’m not sure, but I think we turn cars over faster than Europe. Finally, here EVERYONE has a car as public transport isnt really an option. Hell, I have 8 of them! So it’s different, and maybe this BMW turd makes sense in Europe. Here, you can have twice the car for half of the money as the BMW, which will also be unreliable and expensive to repair.
Does anyone realize this guy has clinical depression? Lol, he's so down about everything
He does have a sour tone but he actually said a lot of positive things in this review.
It's crazy how crap that rear section of the centre console looks (rear vents). Looks like junk from miles away. Compare that against the rear vents in say an E39, from 1996! It's nuts.
13:10 I think the word you're looking for is: Sterile. That'd be how I'd describe this car
German is another word that works ;)
@@Quartzhawk878 Soulless
Well, if that's the case, at least there's no chance of it reproducing...
Real viewer knows it's already reserved for Passat
Appealing?
"What impressed me ..." - looking like a person that ran out of the will to live ...
Some of us don’t want to buy a large SUV because 1. we live in a big city with limited parking space and size and 2. we may already have a large SUV such as the X5. Such as us when we went shopping as we wanted to upgrade our Audi A3 wagon. We needed something roomy but could still fit in our driveway along with the X5 as we have tandem parking. This new vehicle needed to also carry both kids and a hockey bag and stick. Oh and since we’re in Canada AWD capability is a nice have. We’re also fortunate that we are able to afford a luxury brand. Let me tell you this thing has been great, it drives more like a car as your height is somewhere between an suv and a sedan. Great views, massive amount of cargo, good drivetrain, stiff suspension for some fun and small enough to zig and zag in the city and to park anywhere you want. It’s worth what we paid, you’re buying a depreciating asset no matter how you look at it. Having a car is a luxury in itself and of all the X models this one is built in Germany and yes it feels very European and made for European roads and driving which we love. It’s been perfect for us and we often take it for road trips vs our 2014 X5 as we also put our bike and ski rack on the X1 as the X5 is too high sometimes to reach things on the roof rack. Also yes it’s FWD biased but seriously unless you’re buying a sports car and going to the track fwd is more efficient and safer. I think we need more compact all purpose vehicles vs having larger parking lots.
X1: When you want to pay $40k for a Chevy Equinox.
@japanwatchconnection I've had to drive a X1 m25i as a courtesy car (it was a 2018).
I was very unimpressed, a Chevy Equinox is a good description. Felt hollow, cheap and pointlessly high.
I’ve driven both... was disappointed to learn that the steering feel in the Equinox was more “BMW” than the X1... also rode the new Cadillac XT4... honestly found the Equinox driving dynamics better than both. Interior of the Equinox was obviously lacking compared to the others... looks like the Mazda CX-5 would be the overall winner here if they could get more power out of that engine. I’m yet to test the Lincoln Corsair but recommended someone test drive it and they end up buying it. Without driving one, I think I like the Volvo XC40 best.
Michael Hammoud I bought a 2017 cx-5 grand touring AWD a few weeks ago. Super happy with the performance so far. You mentioned engine power being a problem, I think it drives great, especially for the price point. I would say you probably say you get more value for your money as any other vehicle honestly. I trust the engine and transmission long term, it has great suspension, 10 speaker bose audio, leather interior. It feels like a luxury car for the price of a Toyota or Honda. If you are considering buying a vehicle in this segment I would definitely give it a test drive.
I would never buy a Chevy over any BMW, not even a C8 over a 3 series coupe.
@@mikehamm45 Don't buy CX-5, its quality wise the biggest trash there is around. If you don't like the X1, go Volvo.
The grilles keep getting bigger, I'm scared.
Soon these bmws are going to have a coke problem.
go to google and lookup 2020 Toyota Avalon grille
@@aceofspades6667 oh I was about to get a heart attacj
Ace of Spades it’s so unfitting and jagged, it looks like it was made with a sawzall.
Ashish Patel yet most 80s car’s front ends’ could retain their dignity.
... but apparently BMW is doing something right with the X1. It is the most succesful X Model worldwide and even one the most top selling cars of BMW´s whole lineup. Not everywhere in the world are the roads as wide as in th US 😉 Greetings from BMW Town, Munich, Germany ✌️
I’m from the U.K. and have owned a X1 2.0i X-drive for over 2 years. I have also been employed for 30 years in the automotive industry so am in a good position to offer a valid opinion on various motor vehicles.
In X-Line spec my X1 has been a revelation in every department, which is more than can be said for the 2017 VW Tiguan R-Line 4 motion which I own along with its faulty DSG Gearbox and low rent interior!
As a family guy it accommodates everything that has been thrown at it, coping admirably with the UK’s poor roads and on long drives where 55mpg from a petrol unit is considered quite a feat and as good as the fuel economy from my VW Tiguan which has a Diesel engine.
Overall I’m very happy with this purchase and would consider another X1 when I am ready to change.
Great ! Thank you ! Brit expat in USA who is sick of these spoiled U.S. brats.
@@ArieteArmsRAMLITE shove your bs crossover
interesting - I am in market for X3-- trading a '21 RDX awd tech package, and the more I read about the X1, the more I like it. Just as big and quick as X3 but but way less $
@@rl6210 since posting my comment 1 year ago I have changed my wife’s X1 2.0i - X-Line - X-Drive for a 2021 model which is better than the 2018 model owned previously. It has better standard kit and mild hybrid tech which helps with acceleration. I also have a X3 M40d on order since July 2021 with an expected delivery date of May 2022!
Go buy you will not be disappointed!
Great thorough review as usual. I happen to be on my second X1, the first version of this was pretty cheap feeling but the newer version is quite nice and my wife and I really love love this vehicle. We got a great end of year deal on a loaded model so it was a good value.
The saddest thing is that BMW is cheaping out by swtiching from rwd platform to fwd and the price still doesn't go down.
Riste Kostadinov trickle down economics
realistically for the demographic buying something like this they probably don't even know or care. For the same price they are getting a car with way more leg room than the old X1. For most non car people that is a plus over the old X1
I understand your comments, in my opinion m240i and m2/competition were the best new bmw you can buy (and more affordable for a bmw) in terms of power/weight maybe that's why i made this emotional comment. With that being said, BMW is cheating on customers by using cheaper platform and not dropping the price down. You are still in 50 000+ $ for a fwd biased crossover. With 45 000 you can get Kia Teluride full specced.
“Cheaping out” the interior is miles better than any old BMW. They’re making choices based on what their consumers want
It's called profit margins, BMW wants bigger ones
Looks like you're paying what, 10-15k for the BMW badge?
Steve E yea, i think the top of the line mazda cx5 is much better for the price, especially with the 2.5 turbo engine
@@alvins706 CX-5 is trash quality, I would not take that car for free.
@@peterhammer6915 How so? I’ve driven both and I liked the Mazda much better all around. X1 just seems like a total waste of money.
@@mikaylabaradat people value different things in cars. I value quality of interior which was horrible in the CX-5. One of the worst i have ever seen. Secondly in driving dynamics they are classes apart. The new 2020 X1 hybrid is a masterclass for is price.
@@peterhammer6915 You're a tough critic, I guess lol. I think to say that the quality of the Mazda's interior is 'horrible' is a bit of a hyperbole, it's still a $30,000+ car. I have friends and family members with X1's and X3's and the interior just felt stiff and uncomfortable to me, and the drive also felt very stiff, but to each their own!
i guess what you trying to say is: this is a "high-end" average car for the "high-end" average office-hero...
double oxymoron
we leased the previous gen and it has been one of my favorites, a dorky box but the e46 chassis was perfect, the car flew and was outstandingly fun in snow, this one without the chassis being near 50/50 is a challenge to convince me of enjoyment long term. I do like the cargo area and its well received in demos, the 2GC, I am still thinking on how to talk it up in a review, it looks like a corolla and the plastic inside it is scary to look at. Great review guys thanks!
Got 1st gen X1 as my first car, and I am still keeping it. It's done over 100kkm already. Every piece is falling down. I spend thousands of dollars fixing it but never regretted it. Driving it is so satisfying. Actually, the chassis was from e91 wagon though.
So old x1 is rwd?
$50k for that trash. SMH. Get huyndai and better car for money and warranty. This gona be money pit in couple of years. Luxury for BMW is more plastic. Even get Mazda
Pretty tough review gents. I just bought X1 Sdrive. It’s a great car and dollar for dollar good value against what Mercedes and Audi are offering. This is my 6th BMW. My last 2 cars were a BMW V8 M3 and Porsche Mecan S.
The X1 is excellent. It’s a compact cross over with shorter wheelbase for better manoeuvrability. Yes the ride is a little firm, but it’s not designed a grand tourer.
The fact that everything works exactly how it is designed to work puts a smile on my face as an owner. It does what is meant to do.
The F48 is built on the BMW UKL platform. That is not a Mini platform; it is developed by BMW for FWD-based cars built by the group. The F48 for instance used it before the Countryman.
The interior space is very close to the X3, so I'd like to hear what it exactly lacks in comparison to the X3. The body is slightly narrower, but that's pretty much it. Also, since it has the room of the X3 - how much less of a "value car" the X3 is if this is not? How does the X1 compare to its rivals, like the Q3 or GLA/B, you're constantly comparing it to more expensive BMW models. It sells more than Q3 and GLA combined in Europe so I guess they've done something right which doesn't come across in this video.
If the X3 is really that exciting to drive compared to the X1, I bet the 3-series must blow your minds.
I have driven all the main competitors of X1 incl. Volvo, Merc, Audi and the X1 was easily the best of the bunch. We opted for 4-wheel drive 20i. Don't know what this guy is talking about. This is not the first video where he bashes BMW. Probably not the last either.
Just buy a Mazda CX-5 and save a wad of cash and get a better vehicle.
These sell like crazy in asia ,its a big hit!.Agreed its not the BMW you like but cant say its boring and plain. These guys sound terribly boring and plain.Ive driven this and its plenty fun and holds it own extremely well .
Specifically my pelvis 😂
As a german, i am mostly unsatisfied the way german automakers asks for overrated cars just for the badge. Go und leave those german cars in the halls of your car dealers and maybe some day Germans understand that der badge on the front of your car is not enough to compete anymore.
The final thoughts about this car are spot on
I think reliability is an important consideration. When looking at crossovers which are appliance vehicles, reliability makes a huge difference. If you're gonna own this for more than 5 years/100K miles, I'd consider the reliability of the RDX over the BMW any day
Jeron Wong I would take the F sport Lexus RX350 which looks cool and has a really upscale interior and even more reliable then the RDX and holds a higher resale value but I think the RX F sport cost more also
@@Toyota4Life base RDX is 37.8K while base RX 350 is 44.2K, not an insignificant amount. RDX is more fun to drive if equipped with SH-AWD, but like you said Lexus should have a more upscale interior, more reliability, and higher resale value. Just a question of whether you're able to/willing to spend an extra 6.4K for it
Close to $50K for this, no thanks.
I dont think anyone actually buys cars like these. Probably all leased
@@wigletron2846 Pretty easy to gauge this by seeing the huge inventory of ~3 year old CPOs at BMW dealerships. The price tag on the X1/2 is just ridiculous imo. I'd take a previous gen 3 or 5 series any day. Don't see the appeal of small CUVs like this, especially with not-so-small price tags...
@@hyacia It's for "doing like the big ones".
I’d rather have a base RAV4/CRV/CX5 and 20-25k in the bank.
Wigletron I’ve heard 80-90 percent of BMWs are in fact leased. The best deal is to buy one just off lease as a CPO and dump it before the warranty expires.
Not sure that I agree with you on several points: In the entry level luxury market, the X1 is much more engaging to drive than the Audi Q3 or the Volvo XC40. It hugs the road better, has tighter and more responsive steering, faster acceleration and better gas mileage. The interior quality of the X1 is also better than the Q3. You found the seats uncomfortable, but your review car had the sport seats (which are very rare in the X1). Personally, I find them much more comfortable than the standard seats which are too flat and short for me. But That’s a question of personal comfort. You could save a small amount of money and get a loaded Mazda CX-5. It’s a nice car, but I hate that there’s no panoramic sunroof and I found the seats in the Mazda to be pretty awful and the tech a bit outdated. It also has lower gas mileage. I haven’t driven the new RDX, but it’s nearly a foot longer than the X1, so that puts it in a different category altogether for people who want something smaller and Acura customer satisfaction rates in recent years are lousy according to Consumer Reports and other auto press. The X1 is mainly sold in urban areas where people want a small car that’s easy to park and maneuver. In some urban areas, the X1 is out selling the 3 series. Sure, you could get a Honda, Ford, Toyota or Kia for less money, but they’re no where near as engaging to drive as the X1. The X1 does have road noise, but it’s mainly due to the stock run flat tires. Get a spare tire kit and swap them out for a decent set of non run flat performance tires and that should solve the problem. I agree that BMW nickel and dimes you. It’s unacceptable that they don’t come standard with blind spot monitoring for example. Is the X1 perfect? No. But when comparing apples to apples in the entry level luxury cross over market, I’ve found it to be a very strong contender and with comparable pricing. One last point: Your comment that the X1 has the same drivetrain as the Mini is mistaken. The Mini Cooper S models have a 189 hp engine. The X1 has a 248hp engine with more torque. At 0-60 in 6.3 seconds, X1 accelerates faster than all S model Minis. Anyway, just my two cents 🙃
I think they meant the Mini countryman. BMW owns MINI and both cars belong to the compact crossover class. So I won't be surprised to learn that they share platforms.
Yeah who’s feeling that mighty four cylinder😹
It's crazy how people now think a vehicle that does a sub-15 second quarter is something to laugh at. In the 90's, that'd be considered a v8 sports car territory.
kalel33 Agreed. AMG just made a 4 cylinder with 400hp. And, you see plenty of Golf Rs and Evos with even more power in the aftermarket community. 4 cylinders are nothing to laugh at.
If you are getting a bmw you are better off spending the extra money and getting a six cylinder much more reliable
Von_Nightmare_ Luciferian first generation x1 came with a six cylinder n55 engine same as the 335i and 435i u can pick one up for cheap it’s a sleeper
@@bernie5642 I test drove one. The engine was amazing but the handling was even better
The reason it's small (in my opinion), is that it is targeted at women drivers... And it makes sense, here in Europe at least, most small SUV-s (and bigger ones too) are driven by ladies for some reason. Maybe it is a sense of security, maybe it's prestiege, both very likely, but women really like them.
I think it's the same in the states, they feel more secure and it's usually rich moms / women who's rich husbands buy it for them = in prestige? (or atleast that's the stereotype).
I think we prefer smaller because our roads are smaller in europe and the uk. Like it's a rarity to see 150 ford pickups here. It's literally an event for me when i see one here in the uk.
You guys miss the point entirely. These are ultra-practical city runabouts with heaps of space. They are the German version of the Honda Jazz. They're similar to the Mercedes B180/B200 only a bit smaller. People love this size of car.
X1 German built, X3 US built, X5 US built
People made fun of it when it came out, but the first generation X1 is better. You could get a 35i, it was RWD biased, and wasn’t a reskinned countryman.
Would rather get a cx5 signature or xc40 instead
xc40 is smaller than this
My two favorite choices as well.
I cross shopped cx5/3/30 and preowned x1s. The Mazdas felt A LOT slower than the BMW. Ended up with a 2016 CPO X1 with 20k miles for less than a new (base) cx5. New off the lot, the X1 makes no sense. As a used car, it rules.
@@ZoliKoncz I don't think so. I think xc40 is taller and an inch longer. They're in direct comparison.
Benjamin Smith BMW x1 length: 4439 mm, Volvo xc 40 length: 4425 mm. How is that longer in ANY way? BS right there 😂
@6:00 "Feeling that mighty four cylinder" 😂😂😂
There are some stock 4 cylinder engines with 400hp+.
Stock.
might be butt buddies
seats are designed for Europeans :>
for very small Europeans
Those seats are fucking horrible! I was at a BMW dealer and the seats of a F30 3 series is so much more comfortable!
"seats are designed for Europeans" -- Europeans tend to be tall, so no.
Well I’m part of the people who likes smaller seats because I’m small. I really like the Chevy Bolt seats when everybody else seems to hate them.
They really aren't. Too small and uncomfortable. I've been in a BMW dealership a while ago to check out series 2 Gran Tourer, which was terrible, but also checked X line up, which were equally terrible, said "hell no" to all X and Gran/Active Tourer and that was my last BMW dealership visit. Don't understand what the fuss is with BMW cars - they are uncomfortable, overpriced and unreliable.
Drive this before you judge it. It is so much better than the mazda. More power, more fuel efficient, better interior all around, moon roof, smooth, fast for normal people, etc. Buy it CPO for 25k for a 45k model. Can't do better if you want a small suv. Look at interior specs, it is larger than the x3 in many ways in the interior....
100% that no passion or imagination went into creating and developing this car.
Its a CUV. They are appliances that people for some reason people buy. No passion went into my microwave either, and I bought it. sometimes you just gotta let bmw make money so they can fund their passion cars.
Another spot-on review. These things are so f’ing boring. It looks like someone slapped a BMW badge and some kidney grilles on a CR-V. The upcoming GLA at least looks a bit more interesting. But think about how much you could load up a CX-5 for this price. I’d much rather have a 3-series wagon, but that’s no longer an option.
I have a 2017 x1 in Black Sapphire. I got it CPO with 20k miles for $27k in November, 2018. It was pretty loaded with a $45k sticker.
I did a few things cosmetically. I put gloss black 19's that fit more flush. I blacked out the window trim, kidney grills, and all of that weird matte silver trim BMW sticks on the exterior. I always mod my cars. Objectively, what I've done makes my x1 a head turner.
It doesn't have shift paddles. Its not really comfortable not really sporty. The engine is linear and has a little punch but leaves a lot to be desired. The transmission feels decent in M but in S and D is pretty awful. It certainly doesn't have that "mind reading" magic programming. My mk6 GTI 's DSG mops the floor with it. To be fair though, that was the best part of that car.
The sound system sounds good with tuning for the music I listen to. Visibility is exceptionally good. The interior overall feels nice. Much classier than my dad's MDX.
I test drove a q3 and gla before I bought it. It runs circles around both of them in just about every way. It wasn't even close. The brand new q3 could give it a run. I needed something with more room than my GTI and the AWD for winter.
I'm getting tired of it. I want something that knows what it is. Either sporty or luxurious and comfy. At this price point you can't have both. Been checking CPO Golf R prices daily.
Thanks for reading.
Spagett ! In every way, x1 feels like an entry level vehicle... except for price.
@@bassandtrebleclef I would say the looks of it if you spec and/or mod it correctly doesn't follow that rule. It really has nice proportions and some sleekness depending on your viewing angle
I own an x1 and can relate I really wish they would come out with M variant with a six cylinder go back to rwd and make the interior a little more luxurious
worse to drive and slower than the CX-5 Turbo. I don't think the X1/X2 suspensions+drivetrains drive much at all like the bigger RWD based cars
Car and Driver 0-60.
X1: 5.7s.
CX-5: 6.2s.
How is 5.7 slower than 6.2?
@@vegasmooch I've only ever seen mid 6's for the X1 look again. Mazda has over 300 lb ft and is more consistently low 6
@japanwatchconnection the X1 is a BMW in name only ... look at the pic I've owned many dumbass . I'd rather drive my sister's CX-5 2.5t over the junk X1/X2's I get as loaners anyday
A Mazda Cx5 signature turbo is better than this turd
This makes me love my Mazda CX-5 Signature more. It's a great car for the price. It's the Japanese Bimmer!
Overpriced garbage, proof that people only care about the badge. The X3 is much better.
You would know from experience?
I agree with a lot of points in the review, but I really don’t see how NX, CX5, etc that you listed are competitors to this car.
X1 is the fastest CUV with some of the top fuel economy in its class. The rear passenger space rivals X3 and the trunk space is bigger than GLC. All its done with 10% less weight and smaller dimensions to those cars. Best of all, unlike x3 to x7, this car is made in Germany. It’s simpler drivetrain also means it is a lot more reliable than the popular x3 and x5.
Not to mention thanks to its front wheel biases all wheel drive system, it will outperform most BMW in snowy and off road. So it’s a jack of all trade car that will simply perform everywhere.
And if you want some real fun, you can always disable the DSC and go aftermarket to tune up the car.
I think X1’s only rival is the XC40. But that car simply drives worse, and have a smaller trunk than the X1.
I think if you add up the math on the “spreadsheet”, this car makes all the sense. If you are not satisfied, go aftermarket.
wrong pretty much all around. better CUVs with similar fwd + awd are available for less with more features. particularly the cx5
Grant Hemstreet I wish the CX-5 is competitive enough. But its transmission is quite a bit worse, steering too. Interior quality is also much worse, simply different class (even though it’s pretty good compare to other Japanese cuvs). IDrive of BMW is class leading in infotainment, not to mention wireless Apple CarPlay which CX-5 doesn’t have. Paint job of CX-5 is soft and very easily scratched compared to the paint on the X1. The pano roof of CX-5 is also tiny compared to the X1. The list go on!
Why do I know all these details? Cus I considered that car too. I love Mazda.
So no, cx-5 is not a competitor IMO. It’s outclassed in all areas. I wouldn’t get a CX-5. Model Y on the other hand outclass both X1 and XC40 though.
@@happycamperjack The CX-5 with Turbo has near identical performance but comes with heated and cooled seats, heated steering wheel, a HUD (which is a VERY addictive feature -- once you drive with a HUD its something you will always want to have), folding power mirrors, windshield wiper de-icer, a better Bose stereo and way better materials inside for $2k less than the base X1 which comes with none of these features. To spec out the X1 to the same level is another $8k. The X1 does have better paint I will grant you that. The pano roof is a gimmick. That thin material cover BMW uses screams cheap. The Mazda is also a bit bigger inside. Its no X3 but its bigger than the X1. This is why it outsells the X1 in the US.
I should also add -- the Mazda has bigger wheels for those that give a damn about that. The way BMW nickels and dimes you for basic features is absurd. They want $1k extra for adaptive cruise control. Even the base cheapo CX-5 comes with that standard.
@@michaelb7437 The fact is, if you go top trim with mx-5 vs X1, there’s no comparison. MX-5 just feels cheap inside out. It lacks the attention to details that the X1 have and feels like an imitation of Bmw’s interior. And stuffs like non-flat loading trunk and poorer transmission (not that X1’s Toyota transmission is as good as a ZF) are kinda deal breakers. But honestly, I’d just spend a bit more on a model y. It’s gonna be a lot cheaper in the long term.
His face says it all. He basically hates this car lol. I just bought one and I love it. It’s as much or more fun to drive than my 17 GTI. As he said the drivetrain is what you’re paying for with the X1. The cabin might be older BMW style but it gives you a great sense of space and openness and it’s more comfortable than the 3 series I drove because you’re not wedged up against the center console. The materials are solid too. I have no complaints. The iDrive is easy to use. I agree the sound system is pretty bad, useable but it should be way better for the price point.
It makes no sense to get a SubCompact luxury SUV, CUV. Get a compact mainstream SUV like the CX5 with more options. I dont know any brand in the luxury category that offers good value in the SubCompact category. And they mention it here, Audi, Lexus, MBZ.
"Thats not my dandruff that is snow" go save there. Good save... 😉😂
I bought a base model 2018 X1 sDrive28i brand new. The X1 is a lot like the 230i coupe. It's great as long as you get a base model. Mine came with optional heated seats and steering wheel and floor liners with FWD, not AWD, and kept to a sticker price of $36,540 and I got it for $29,000 after discounts and rebates. If bells and whistles are a big thing, step up to an X3 or X5. You are not going to get the value out of a fully equipped AWD X1 at $45,000+. The engine and transmission are wonderful. Only the base seats are a problems but I've gotten used to it. But for what it is in base model form, it's just what I needed, but I would never get this kind of a vehicle stuffed with options, and frankly the simplicity of the base model is one of my favorite things about the X1.
“It’s fine, except for the sense of absolute death inside.”
Also the Acura RDX is atrocious--that bulky annoying center console is horrible. Also that vehicle competes more with the X3 than the X1, as it is more expensive than this BMW and is larger & heavier. Makes sense why you would get nicer options in it.
I like my daughter Mazda Touring CX5 better! Same price but, faster, interior, and AWD.
When I was shopping for a BMW SUV in 2018 I went to the dealer and thought, let me try the cheapest one first. I'm 6'2" and 240 lbs. I open the X1 driver's door, put my ass in the seat and couldn't swing my legs inside. Oh well I guess it's an X3 for me 😀
Yeah this is an automobile for EU.
Specifically Italy, Spain, France and so on.
In Milan it's FULL of them.
I'm 6'4 and 240 and own a 2017 x1, I fit fine and just drove it on a 700 mile road trip with no issue. Just gotta move the seat back and the steering wheel up.
SpaghettiKillah this is a typical European Soccer mom car. I don’t think many tall guys drive those
Commenting on a two year old video is silly but I don't think there was enough attention given to the controls. I'm surprised you didn't give it more praise for physical controls. The price in Canada is actually not that bad. I compared it to an identically equipped Mazda CX5 AWD Turbo and it was only about 10% more. That's a price I'm willing to pay for the badge, physical controls, superior AWD and driving characteristics, and more cargo space.
Agree with everything you mentioned. I have driven a fully loaded X1 25i for a few days as a loan car. It's not bad, but it fails to give any special feelings to the driver. It's quick and shifts smooth, the 4wd works well for city roads and it's well equipped with same techs as other BMWs and it's quite spacious for what it is. But it's not an "ultimate driving machine" like old BMWs. Even Mini Countryman offers better driving feels and characters than X1. IMO, owners of this car are badge snobs and they don't care about cars, they want an appliance and they pay extra for that badge. If they are rational and want a white appliance, RAV4, CRV, Forester, CX-5 or any other cheaper city SUVs are far better options. If they care about driving, I can't see the reason of choosing a city SUV.
def need to try out a 2020 JCW Countryman by MINI.. its the fun version of the X1/X2.. ;)
Where’s Turbowski???????
I asked the same... This channel is becoming too much mainstream...
He will be released soon for good behavior.
The Mazda fans boys still have him on trial for his CX-9 review.
Y R U following the straight pipes, throttle house format?
Some of the best production quality and sound I heard! This has become my favorite channel for autos.
X1 has almost the same amount of space inside as x3, it is only a bit narrower. It has the same 4 cylinder engine but it is 400 pounds lighter so it drives much better, is more lively, agile and has a better mpg.It drives like a car and not like a big heavy suv and that was very important for me and my wife.We have tested many cars x1 x3, audi q3, mercedes, lexus nx.Bmw x1 is the best in driving, economy, space inside, quality! X3 only with r6 engine!!
My wife has a 2019 xDrive. Lease is coming up in Nov 2022 so in this market it's a steal to buy. I usually end up riding in back seat. Back seats don't have enough thigh support. I'm used to riding in back of my Lexus RX350 with a TON of seat recline, so the X1 seats are frustrating for me to get comfortable...like I'm sitting up in a 90-degree position...uncomfortable. Dirty sock smell from AC a few months after we leased it. Paid BMW $100 to get smell out and they couldn't even fix it, so...living with that. There are VERY few little cubbies in front OR back to "toss" things into. I always use the door handle cup for various little items and the X1 has NO door handle cups!! Frustrating!! We bought a nylon bag that straps across both seats and hangs in the middle that we can toss things into. Run-flats are noisy. I find it very odd that there is NO sun visor/tint strip built into the windshield?? Not sure if BMW does this on everything?? We are constantly pulling down the sun visor when a little sun is coming in. My wife is 4'11" and likes the visibility out the front. X3 dash obscures visibility a bit more (although I would PREFER the X3...but it's not my choice). Wife likes the Apple CarPlay. Memory seats sometimes get confused between the two sets of keys and two different Profiles. Smartphone integration is nice to locate vehicle, see how much gas in the tank, if doors locked, etc. 228HP is plenty of power and Sport Mode tightens-up steering and shift-points nicely.
seems like in this segment. Makes sense to just get a fully loaded regular car. Im having trouble wanting this over a signature cx5 with the turbo. But that might just be me.
You pay a premium price for a vehicle that is not as good as some others in its class, all to get that BMW badge on the hood. Then you pay twice the cost of service than you would if you were driving a Honda or Toyota or Mazda. Finally, when you go to sell that wonderful BMW, you discover that it has depreciated twice as fast as a Honda, Toyota or Mazda. Ah, but you had the pleasure of knowing you were driving a BMW!
Great review as always! I recently got a 2016 x1 (same body style) with almost all the options (heated seats & steering wheel, 19 in wheels, backup cam with sensors, sliding rear seats, pano roof, folding mirrors, power lift gate, cornering led headlights, and much more!) with 50k miles for $20k USD. I think at that price, it's a great bargain. It's quick, comfy but quick and nimble ride, and it feels like a BMW when you drive it haha.
Oh man glad I’m not crazy with those seats; always thought they felt super small and I’m about your size Mark. Great video thank you.
these go for 350 a month 0 down. i say its a decent vehicle and i drive these a lot. probably 500+ X1s.
I feel this on a personal level. I sell BMW. The X1 is selling very well right now for us. Not a bad value CPO for about 22k with low miles.. but it has no soul. At all. It's strictly A to B but it does that fine I suppose.
LOL, I laughed watching you two being so completely unenthusiastic about this "ultimate driving machine". BMW lack luster since many years.
You view vehicles the way I do Mark, I enjoy your reviews. My cousin just bought one of these things and he is a corporate guy as well, a CEO actually. I told him to get an Acura RDX, like you stated it gives you a better value proposition and better reliability as well! But he went ahead and got the boring little BMW Mini copy instead. Oh well, typical corporate guy I guess! lol Savagegeese is da best! :-)
I really dislike these small girly type suvs
At least it's not a Beetle.
I’m out as soon as you say “mini countryman”...
The countryman is an awesome car
@@ian2183
The Maxi Village Idiot is an offence against car design!
The Mini was designed in the 60s to be that shape to maximise internal space in a tiny city car. By making that shape gigantic BMW are screaming MORON at themselves!
Thanks, I'll take a Mazda CX-5 instead.
Agreed.
I've been looking at that SAVAGAGEESE typo for months now on the audio sheet.
Its amazing you are the first the catch it.
In italy it's a good selling car. It's practical and premium enough to most of the people. In europe people buys a lot of these cars, and we don't consider them small. We consider an X5 huge. I bought one for my family for 39k euros, and it's an automatic diesel, with all optionals we need and we are fine. Not the best suv in the world for shure, but a solid one.
Didn’t a higher up at BMW say years ago that Hell would freeze over before BMW would go FWD?
Final thoughts was real af
I love Savagegeese but it appears that if he's not into a particular model, his review suffers from it too ( like Equinox recently) and seems half hearted...
These are super popular where I live. The people around me are rich and can buy whatever they want. I see these way more than the X3. Probably cuz people don’t care about the subtle differences and this is $10k less.
CX-5 turbo.
Teutonic s-box.... Gunter really got his rocks off designing this one
This is a great crossover for somebody who can't afford a better vehicle or who doesn't know you can get a much better/cooler vehicle for the same price or way less.
"I am a smaller guy I've always been a smaller guy in every single area of my body". when he said that last bit I think everyone thought what I thought
"I felt an absolute sense of death inside" not exactly a glowing review.
As a MB guy, I should say that X1 is so much better than GLA. For this segment, Korean cars offer much more for fraction of the cost.
Do you think this vehicle was targeting a female demographic? Might explain the tighter front seats. They may have been trying to make a practical mom mobile.
I see so much X1 on the road! I did read that this was one of the most reliable vehicles in their lineups
Unless you’re getting a 25% discount, this doesn’t make sense. When we drove it, the front seats felt really narrow and uncomfortable. BMW cheaps out on every car, so that’s not really a surprise. What was surprising was lack of comfort. BMW seats are usually pretty good. Not here.
bassandtrebleclef it’s designed for the european and asian market where people are much smaller
It's made for women.
"clearly not a car designed for the US market" how does it compare to the Mini Version?
littlemuffin1 the mini is a lot more sportier I test drove this and a mini All 4 Paceman S and bout the low mileage paceman. The BMW was kind of boringingly perfect, my wife chose the quirky Mini Paceman, hope that helps.
@@men8212 Since i have three of them and had zero issues i'd say you don't know too much about them. Two of them are driven all year long thru Winter in Alberta Canada with zero issue. The paceman sits outside all day in minus 40 and has never failed to start.
IT'S JUNK THAT NOBODY WANTS 👎