If you thought the BMW X1 was little more than a 5-series on steroids then think again. Driving the new X1 this week the consensus view in the office here is that its much more like a baby X3 – and that’s a far better badge of honour to wear.
We drove the front wheel drive sDrive 1.8i M Sport which in the wet leafy lanes around our office was a welcome relief after some of its rear wheel drive relatives that have paid us a visit. The model we drove had a higher ride height and bigger body then the original X1 which was well received all round. Despite the raised ride height you still sit lower than many of its premium SUV competitors which meant that it comes across very clearly as car with the driver at the heart of everything it does, possibly more so than any other competitor in its class. It feels sportier too !
The automatic gearbox was an absolute delight and changes gear clearly and smoothly with minimum fuss. The 18″ wheels, body coloured trim and lowered suspension of the M Sport we drove was a big hit visually with everyone. We reckon inside cabin space is pretty much the same as the last SUV we had on test, the Volvo XC40, and with a 6ft plus driver and a 6ft plus rear passenger there was ample space for comfort. One clear win for the X1 vs the XC40 was in the boot space which was pretty cavernous – even more so when the rear seats are folded
The original X1 carried the top score five-star rating in the Euro NCAP’s crash test when it was first assessed a few years ago and the current model boasts Park Assist, Active Guard (a collision warning system) and front and rear parking sensors
Overall we were seriously impressed by the BMW X1 and were sad to see it go back after its brief stay with us.
You can view the BMW X1 range of Contract Hire and Leasing Offers and Deals at Dynamic Vehicle Leasing here
To discuss any aspect of the BMW X1 range in more detail please contact the Dynamic team on 01342 710400 or email us at sales@dynamic-car-leasing.co.uk