BMW X1 [2010-2012] User Reviews

Exterior

The design is very cool and trendy. Clean lines (you cannot take your eye off the BIG bonnet in comparison to ANY car/suv) and a dramatic change at the back with some neat cuts. The kidney bean grill is a tad bigger than the 3 Series. The lights are neatly designed, very BMW, smart fog lamps, classy sun roof and finally the height of the car - definitely smaller in comparison to the X3 and other SUV's but the large wheel base gives it the height you may be looking for.(the feeling of a SUV when you sit inside). But when did BMW ever claim it to be a SUV, they call it a compact SAV. If you want a hatchback instead of a sedan, for more space, its worth the try.

Interior (Features, Space & Comfort)

 The iDrive not only gives the dash a trendy look but is also a very useful devise to navigate your way with the features. It would have been completely worthwhile if India supported the navigation system. Lacks some of the automatic sensors, the cruise control and hill assist (if i were to compare features for the cost u pay. you get all of these in other brands for lesser cost). Its definitely a 4 people car and the fifth should be a kid. But very comfortable knee room and head room in both rows (i am 6ft tall and can easily walk in and walk out unlike crawling into bucket seats). The second row seats fall flat (not 180 degree though) and give u the space u want to bundle your dog (i have a St Bernard) or for more luggage

Engine Performance, Fuel Economy and Gearbox

This is where the BMW quality kicks in. At 2000 RPM, the surge is surreal. You can enjoy the power on long stretches and even for that little push to over take in city traffic. The sports mode could have been better, lacks a wee bit in the turbo u would expect in DS mode. But you can live with it. The AC is powerful and does not disturb the engine power. . The gear box is responsive and the economy is purely based on your usage. It can change with every day   

Ride Quality & Handling

The experience of the rise is what you buy this little toy for. Good suspensions, body roll is minimal unless its a terribly bad road. Fantastic (and surprises you) on the curves. Fairly noisy engine on the outside but very quiet in the cabin. Its difficult to believe you are driving a diesel car. 

Final Words

No automobile will provide you with everything you want. I was scouting for a SUV, a mean machine but ended with this toy. Like many of the new breed of SUVs, this is not for off roading. Why did i end up with it? Apart from being a good machine: The brand (the BMW badge can kill the Hyundais, Toyotas, Fords, Skodas of the world in perception), brand values, fits my requirements of space and power, easy to drive in congested traffic, definitely gets the look, and provides a sense of pride

Areas of improvement  

You may not use all the features all the while but the X1 could provide you with some extra features (a chiller box for example) definitely.