The X1 is one of BMW's smallest and most affordable SUVs. It's the starting point of the brand's sizable X lineup of SUVs. The X2 is similar in price and size but boasts a sportier design. The X1 is a subcompact, but it still provides enough room for families. There's ample cargo room for this kind of SUV, too. The little BMW is fresh off a 2023 redesign that included a complete redesign inside and out, lots of new tech features, and improved passenger and cargo space. The big news for 2024 is the addition of the more powerful M35i xDrive model.
The M35i is the X1's performance model. It differentiates itself from the xDrive28i with a unique front bumper and grille, four exhaust outlets and 19-inch M wheels. Performance upgrades include a sport-tuned adaptive suspension and more powerful brakes. Inside, the M35i sports M-specific details such as darker trim and unique doorsills. It also gives you the option to upgrade to the M sport seats. But the best part of the M35i is, of course, the engine. It's the same turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder found in the base model, but thanks to several improvements, it cranks out 312 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This is one of the quickest models in the class and a welcome alternative to pricier sporty SUVs like BMW's X3 M40i.
The X1 competes in the subcompact or extra-small luxury SUV segment. It's packed with compelling rivals but the X1 is one of the top contenders. Other entry-level luxury SUVs to consider include the Audi Q3, Mercedes-Benz GLB and Volvo XC40. The Lexus NX 350 is another alternative. The X2 is getting redesigned for 2024 and is also worth a look if you like its sporty design. For our test team's thorough review of the X1, check out the Edmunds Expert Rating below.
If you have the budget for the new M35i, we think it's worth the premium if you're looking for a sportier design and driving experience. But because the base xDrive28i is more feasible for most buyers, it's the one we recommend. Look to also get an X1 with the Active Driving Assistant Pro package. Its extra driver assist features can make long commutes in traffic easier and less tiring.
The 2024 BMW X1 is available in the xDrive28i model and the sportier M35i xDrive model. The xDrive28i is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 241 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The more powerful M35i xDrive packs the same engine but it's tuned to produce 312 hp and 295 lb-ft. The xDrive moniker means these small SUVs feature all-wheel drive, and both engines are backed by a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Keep reading for our breakdown of the X1's standard and optional feature highlights.
The X1 is BMW's smallest SUV, and for 2023 it got a major redesign. It's better to drive than before, packs a much more advanced tech suite, and finally ditches the boring looks that have long saddled BMW's lowliest SUV. For 2024, things get even more interesting with the addition of a new M35i model. Yes, BMW is slapping an M badge on its smallest crossover, but the changes are more than skin-deep.
Normal X1s are powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that kicks out 241 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The M35i uses the same engine, but a host of improvements turns up the wick to 312 horsepower and the same 295 lb-ft. Changes to the camshaft timing, injection system, ignition system, and exhaust gas routing all account for the bump in power, and there's a stronger crank to handle the increased load.
As with most of BMW's performance-oriented M models, the interior for the M35i gets a little shakeup. The biggest addition are the new (optional) M performance seats. They feature aggressive side bolstering and illuminated M logos near the headrest, and seem to crib the design from the carbon-fiber buckets found in more hardcore models like the M5 CS and M4 CSL. There is also a plethora of M-specific details dotted around the interior like darker interior trim elements, a black headliner, M doorsills and M-specific pedals — just to keep you from ever thinking you're in a bog-standard X1.
BMW's latest interior design ethos is also on full display in the second-gen X1. You get a singular glass enclosure for the 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and 10.7-inch touchscreen, with the latter angled toward the driver. The center stack is also cleaned up, so there aren't several tiers of climate controls and preset buttons. Instead, these functions are all contained within menus and submenus of the infotainment system. We've seen this system in recent BMW models like the all-electric iX and flagship 7 Series sedan. The new M35i model adds BMW's quick select functionality, which embiggens the icons and makes them easier to select while on the move.
Edmunds saysThe X1 is a much more well-rounded and impressive machine since its redo, and we think it's easily one of the best cars in its class — the added performance of this new model makes it just that much more appealing.
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2024 BMW X1:
The least-expensive 2024 BMW X1 is the 2024 BMW X1 M35i 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $49,900.
Other versions include:
