The X1 is BMW's crossover compact SUV, it forms BMW's current line up of SUVs which consists of the X3, X5 and X6. The X1 is based on the same platform as the BMW 3 series Touring (estate). The X1 was unveiled in 2008 at the Paris Motor Show, it was available in 2009.
The BMW X1 in Scotland is available with a choice of 3 diesel engines, all three are 2.0 litre displacements there is the 18d with 141bhp, the 20d with 175 bhp and the 23d with 201bhp. The 23d is very quick and has a lot of low end grunt; the 20d provides the best of both performance and economy.
The 18d and 20d come as standard with a six speed manual gearbox, the 20d has the option of the six speed auto box and the 23d comes as standard with the six speed auto box.
As it is a sports utility vehicle the X1 does have a firm suspension set up, which might not be to all tastes but it means the handling on the X1 is equal to that of a hot hatch. The four wheel drive versions offer amazing grip, all models have a very communicative steering providing a good feel for the road and steering.
Like its platform sharing 3 series the X1 does a brilliant job of keeping out road and wind noise, the 20d's engine can be a bit noisy unlike its equivalent in the 3 series. Like all BMWs the interior feels very well put together with high end plastics and other materials.