BMW’s smallest SUV, the redesigned 2023 BMW X1 returns to showrooms, well, bigger. Totally revamped, the X1 is longer, wider, taller, and makes a larger footprint with an elongated wheelbase.
Maintaining the familiar shape of its predecessor, the newest X1 sports a larger – albeit, not grossly larger — twin-kidney grille in the center of its fresh face. BMW restyled the headlights and front fascia. Crisp lines define the flanks. The teardrop shape of the X1’s backside uses horizontal lines to emphasize the SUV’s wide stance.
With seating for five, the X1 provides a bit more elbow room because of the increased exterior width. A 40/20/40 rear bench seat folds in concert or by sections, improving the X1’s cargo-carrying capacity.
BMW offers the X1 in 13 exterior colors that range from Alpine White to Jet Black. In between lurk a few new colors like Blue Bay Lagoon, Utah Orange, and Frozen Pure Grey.
Inside is where pleasing becomes fantastic. The BMW Curved Display, which consists of a digital gauge cluster and a touchscreen, stretches 21 inches across the instrument panel. Its brain is the BMW iDrive Operating System 8.
Another focal point is the “floating” armrest between the front seats. It houses a shifter toggle, rather than a shift lever or knob. At the bottom of the center stack are twin cupholders, USB ports, and a slot for a smartphone.
Creating thrust is BMW’s tried-and-true 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine equipped with a single twin-scroll turbocharger. However, the engine doesn’t appear here unmolested. BMW goosed the output by 13 ponies to 241 horsepower. Peak torque is up, as well, from 258 lb-ft to 295 lb-ft. All-wheel drive (AWD) is standard and a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission does the shifting. No word yet from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on the estimated fuel economy.
2023 BMW X1 xDrive28i (starting at $38,600)
The interior of the 2023 BMW X1 (European model shown).
BMW’s marketing strategy for the X1 is a single trim level offering several option-package upgrades. While BMW has yet to release a detailed content list, we can turn to the 2022 model for an educated take on the 2023 X1.
Rolling on 18-inch alloy wheels, the basic X1 provides auto on/off LED headlights, LED taillights, high-beam assist, and disc brakes that dry themselves in wet weather. Torque vectoring, which sends power to individual wheels for better cornering, and heated outboard mirrors with integrated turn signals are standard. So is cruise control. Also included are rain-sensing wipers and a power rear liftgate.
The new My Modes system incorporates displays, interior lighting, and driving dynamics into a set of programmable modes. Personal, Sport, and Efficient are its three settings. With each, you get a unique setting for the powertrain and steering, the style of the Curved Display readouts, and the cabin lighting. You control My Modes through a button on the center console or by voice command.
BMW also includes faux-leather seating, power-adjustable front seats, proximity keyless entry with push-button start, and a tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel. Dual-zone automatic climate control and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters join the list, as well.
BMW doesn’t fall short on X1 infotainment. In addition to the 10.7-inch touchscreen housed in the BMW Curved display, there is a 7-speaker audio system, Bluetooth, and satellite radio compatibility. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included, too.
Standard advanced safety and driver-aid technologies include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and front-rear park assist. Also now standard on the X1 is blind-spot monitoring.
Options and Packages
BMW has yet to announce prices for its options and option packages.
Stand-alone options include remote start, heated front seats and steering wheel, a Homelink transceiver, sports seats, and assorted cabin accents.
Among the options packages are Design xLine, which is primarily an appearance bundle with wheels, interior accents, and exterior trim elements.
The Convenience Package adds Digital Key. It allows you to unlock and start the vehicle with a smart device. Also included are a panoramic moonroof, auto-dimming outboard mirrors, and wireless phone charging.
Included in the Driving Assistance Professional Package are Traffic Jam Assistant, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist with side-collision avoidance. Front cross-traffic alert also is part of the package.
You knew there must be an M Sport Package, right? With it comes an M adaptive suspension, sport seats, an M steering wheel, an aerodynamic kit, and more.
Wrapped in the Premium Package are all the features of the Convenience Package, plus a Homelink transceiver, Parking Assistant Plus, and a head-up display. A Harman Kardon audio system, a driver recorder, and a surround-view camera also are included.
Adding the $995 destination fee to the base price brings the total to $39,595. With no money down, financing for 60 months at 3% interest works out to about $711 per month. See 2023 BMW X1 xDrive28i models for sale
2023 BMW X1 xDrive28i includes:
BMW Curved Display – Comprised of a 10.25-inch digital cluster and a 10.7-inch infotainment touchscreen, this display stretches 21 inches across the instrument panel.
Rain-sensing wipers – When the system senses moisture on the windshield, it automatically engages the wipers. The wiper speed adjusts according to the volume of the rain.
Proximity keyless entry – If the key fob is on your person, the doors automatically unlock when you approach. Push-button start is paired with proximity keyless entry.
Do I have to have the sport seats if I order the M sport package?
Driver Assistance Pro is not an option on the configuration @ BMWUSA