Shifting into shopping mode
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The original BMW X1 launched in 2009, and it was a smart move by BMW - it had already seen success with the X5 and then the smaller X3, so a smaller model still was a bit of a no-brainer. The X1 is now in its third generation, the most recent model covered here hitting the roads in 2022.
As an all-rounder it’s the best X1 yet and easy to recommend as a used buy. That’s partly for the sheer breadth of its range, covering everything from petrol and diesel models to plug-in hybrids and a fully electric model, the iX1. There’s always the option of the BMW X2 as well, which is effectively the same car with a sportier roofline. But it’s the X1’s mix of performance, economy, features, quality, and practicality that should put it on your shortlist.
It’s not difficult to make a case for the BMW X1. It’s got the SUV look and feel that many buyers currently crave, a wide lineup of engines and trim levels, a practical and well-built interior, and above all, the right badge - whatever the class of vehicle, the BMW badge still holds a lot of appeal for a lot of buyers.
The most recent X1 was launched in 2022 so it’s still pretty fresh, and the availability of an all-electric iX1 means the model is somewhat future-proofed too. This iX1 is well worth a look, as while it doesn’t quite have the range (either on paper or in the real world) as some similarly-sized SUVs, it performs well and will still cover most journeys without breaking a sweat.
The X1 shares its underpinnings with some models in the Mini brand, and it has the same agile feel as a result, even at its most basic - not that the X1 is a bare-bones car. Even the lowest Sport trim level is well-equipped and the entry-level petrol and diesel engines perform well and use only modest amounts of fuel.
It’s the most practical X1 yet, and probably still the best car to drive in this class, despite strong competition elsewhere. If you’re set on a BMW then other brands may not appeal, but other cars in this class to consider include the Mercedes-Benz GLA, Audi Q3, and the Range Rover Evoque, while the Volvo EX30 gives the iX1 a run for its money as a relatively compact electric SUV.
The X1 range gives buyers plenty of choice, especially when it comes to engines, so most people should be able to find something that suits their needs. You don’t necessarily need to spend huge money to get a good car either, since even the lower trim levels and smaller engines are well-equipped, have strong performance, and don’t guzzle fuel at an excessive rate - so a regular sDrive 20i or sDrive 18d in Sport trim may be all most people need, especially if all-wheel drive isn’t a requirement. The Sport’s smaller 17-inch alloy wheels provide the best ride quality too, while these smaller engines can avoid the hefty VED surcharge in years two to six, thanks to their lower list prices when new.
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If you’re considering electric power, then the iX1 is also worth a look. Its 270-mile quoted range isn’t the most offered in this class of vehicle, and you’ll get less than that in real-world driving too, but it should cover most commutes and daily errands, and it’s pretty good to drive, being both smooth and surprisingly powerful.
The X1’s trim levels are similar to those of several other BMW models, with Sport and M Sport variants, plus an xLine trim specific to X-badged BMWs, and a high-performance model that stands alone, in this case the M35i, whose equipment is based on M Sport trim. Bear in mind that BMW offers a huge range of options too, so the features listed below may only be the start for some models on the used market.
The BMW X1’s dimensions are:
The BMW X1’s boot size is:
BMW X1s that cost less than £40,000 brand new, which means only a handful of Sport models with the less powerful engines, are subject to a lower flat rate of VED or ‘road tax’ than other X1s, currently £190 per year for petrol and diesel models and £180 for hybrids. The rest of the range attracts a surcharge, costing £600 per year from the second to sixth years on the road (or £10 less for hybrids). The only exception is the all-electric iX1, which is free to tax for the foreseeable future.
The least expensive X1 to insure should be an sDrive18d model in Sport trim, which sits in insurance group 24 out of 50. At the other end of the range is the M35i, in group 35, while the electric iX1 starts in group 29.
£21,691
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£24,790
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£20,297
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What is the most popular colour for BMW X1 ?
What is the most popular gearbox for BMW X1 ?
What is the most popular fuel type for BMW X1 ?
What is the most popular engine for BMW X1 ?
What is the average mileage for BMW X1 ?
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How many BMW X1 cars are available for sale?
311
