2018 BMW X1 Review
Used X1 for sale
Get More For Your Trade-In
2018 BMW X1 appraisal values can range from $18,575 - $22,820.
Find out what your car is really worth in minutes.
Edmunds' Expert Review
byCalvin Kim
Vehicle Test Engineer
Calvin Kim is an automotive journalist at Edmunds.Pros
- Strong and responsive turbo engine
- Sharp handling makes it fun to drive
- Plenty of rear passenger and cargo room
- High-quality materials and fit-and-finish
Cons
- Standard sport suspension may be jarring on rough roads
- Not particularly quiet on the highway
What’s new
The 2018 BMW X1 is unchanged.
Vehicle overview
With the growing popularity of smaller, parking lot-friendly sport-utility vehicles, traditional vehicles such as sedans and wagons are being left in the dust. And SUVs such as the 2018 BMW X1 show why. Its small small size is perfect for urban driving, while its low load floor and large cargo volume are perfect for hauling duty. It is more expensive than many of its traditional competitors, but the BMW X1 is aiming to give compact crossover buyers who want something more sporty or luxurious a good choice in this already crowded market.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2018 BMW X1 xDrive28i 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.00 per gallon for premium unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$192/mo
X1 xDrive28i
vs
$195/mo
Avg. Compact SUV
It starts with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (228 hp, 258 lb-ft) sending power to either the front or, optionally, all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. Either powertrain combination is lively yet smooth, and the X1 can zip to 60 mph in a class-leading 6.5 seconds. But the X1 isn't all about sportiness; its 40/20/40-split rear seatback increases flexibility for carrying large or bulky items and people at the same time.
But there some downsides to having a performance crossover. For one, the same sticky tire and sporty suspension setup that keeps the chassis stable and stuck in the turns also transmits high frequency bumps and noise into the cabin. Although noise levels are no worse than others, the harsh ride over bumpy surfaces may leave drivers wishing for a softer setup. Also, technology features that are standard or packaged together in got-to-have option groups, such as parking sensors and Apple CarPlay connectivity, are stand-alone options, so double-check your build sheet before committing to the car.
Overall, though, the 2018 BMW X1's functional and sporty characteristics warrant a solid recommendation.
Notably, we picked the 2018 BMW X1 as one of Edmunds' Best Luxury SUVs for 2018.
Edmunds' Expert Rating
7.8 / 10Although the 2018 X1 is BMW's lowest-priced SUV, it doesn't skimp on the things that make crossovers so desirable. If anything, BMW has raised expectations about what a luxury crossover should provide. Ample space for people and their gear, sporty driving characteristics and a premium cabin make it a top pick.
Trim tested
Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the 2016 BMW X1 xDrive28i (turbo 2.0L inline-4 | 8-speed automatic | AWD).
Scorecard
| Overall | 7.8 / 10 |
| Driving | 8.0 |
| Comfort | 6.0 |
| Interior | 9.0 |
| Utility | 9.0 |
Driving
8.0Dynamics is where the X1 excels. It is quicker than the Audi Q3 and the Mercedes GLA 250 to 60 mph, posts some of the shortest stopping distances in its class, and sets a high bar in handling prowess. Yet it is the ease of driving this compact SUV that leaves the deepest impression.
Comfort
6.0Many will find the X1 offers suitable levels of comfort, though some may take exception to its higher noise levels and the firmness of its standard sport suspension. Although the interior noise is worth a mention, we'd add the X1 is no louder than others in the class.
Interior
9.0The interior cargo area and ease of cabin access set the X1 apart from the pack. A smart use of under-floor compartments maximizes storage in the back, while the size of the door openings and seat placement make it easy to move in and out of the cabin.
Utility
9.0The X1 sports the highest cargo capacity and lowest liftover height in its class. The cargo volume advantage is mainly due to the large underfloor storage where a spare tire might be otherwise. The 40/20/40-split second row folds flat.
Technology
Navigation is available with the Premium Tier equipment group. The iDrive infotainment system is straightforward to operate. Apple CarPlay, wireless charging and built-in Wi-Fi capability are all worthwhile options to get.
Which X1 does Edmunds recommend?
Unless you specifically need the all-weather capability of the all-wheel-drive xDrive28i, we recommend the front-wheel-drive X1 sDrive28i with the Convenience package. Add in Apple CarPlay and Park Distance Control options and you'll have a luxury vehicle that's well-equipped without breaking the bank.
2018 BMW X1 models
The 2018 BMW X1 is a five-seat compact SUV in the luxury segment. It comes in two versions: the front-wheel-drive X1 sDrive28i and the all-wheel-drive X1 xDrive28i. From there, you have two directions to go: xLine Design or the sportier M Sport Design. After that, you can add various option groups that BMW calls tiers. The M Sport Design already comes with the Convenience group, which is optional on the xLine Design. Afterward, packages and stand-alone options are available based on which initial design and group you select.