As an automotive journalist, I’m often asked if there are any new cars on the market today that are truly bad and should be avoided. The truth is, most modern cars are competent. However, in the fiercely competitive world of luxury subcompact crossovers, being merely “good” isn’t enough. Vehicles need to be exceptional to stand out. This brings us to the 2023 Bmw X1, a vehicle that doesn’t just compete—it excels.
The subcompact luxury crossover segment is brimming with strong contenders. Think of vehicles like the Lexus UX, Volvo XC40, Audi Q3, Mercedes-Benz GLA, and Range Rover Evoque. Each offers a blend of luxury, practicality, and style. Yet, after spending time with the new 2023 BMW X1, it’s clear that BMW has raised the bar.
Front view of the 2023 BMW X1 subcompact luxury crossover, showcasing its modern design.
Interior and Technology: A Minimalist Revolution
Stepping inside the 2023 BMW X1 is a genuinely surprising experience. The minimalist interior design, previously admired in the BMW iX, has successfully trickled down to this subcompact model. The dashboard is dominated by a stunning curved display, seemingly crafted from a single piece of glass, housing both the instrument cluster and the infotainment touchscreen. This creates a visually floating effect that is both modern and sophisticated.
The center console is equally streamlined, featuring essential vehicle controls. Instead of a traditional gear knob, there’s a sleek rocker switch, along with a volume scroll wheel, start/stop button, and controls for drive mode and parking brake. BMW has prioritized functionality and removed any unnecessary clutter.
The minimalist interior of the 2023 BMW X1 featuring curved display screens and floating center console.
While physical climate controls are absent, except for the federally mandated front and rear defrost buttons, the on-screen controls are intuitive and permanently positioned at the bottom of the display. Adjusting the temperature is as simple as tapping the red area for warmer or the blue for cooler. Furthermore, the automatic climate control system is so efficient that manual adjustments are rarely needed.
Seamless Infotainment and Connectivity
The BMW infotainment system is not only visually impressive but also functionally superior. It boasts one of the most robust wireless Apple CarPlay integrations available. Wireless Android Auto is also supported, but BMW’s implementation of CarPlay truly shines. Apple Maps can be displayed on the central infotainment screen, and, uniquely, a beautifully rendered map is also projected onto the instrument cluster.
BMW X1's infotainment system displaying wireless Apple CarPlay with navigation shown on both screens.
In most vehicles, in-cluster navigation is limited to the built-in systems, which can sometimes be less user-friendly than smartphone-based alternatives. However, the 2023 BMW X1 neatly integrates Apple Maps directly into the BMW digital cluster, freeing up the main infotainment screen for other apps like Apple Music. This smart use of screen space is a significant advantage, especially for iPhone users, and could be a deciding factor when choosing within this competitive segment.
Adding to the convenience is an innovative wireless phone charger located at the base of the center stack. It includes a clever restraining bar reminiscent of roller coaster safety mechanisms.
Innovative wireless phone charger with a restraining bar in the 2023 BMW X1 for secure phone storage.
This design allows you to securely store and charge your phone, preventing it from sliding around. Retrieval is effortless – simply grab your phone, and the bar releases instantly. The only minor drawback is that large cups in the cupholders might slightly obstruct access to the phone charger. Beneath the floating center console, a spacious storage area provides ample room for items like purses, wallets, and other everyday essentials.
Exterior Design: Handsome and Refined
The exterior of the new 2023 BMW X1 is undeniably handsome and inoffensive. It avoids the overly large kidney grilles seen on some recent BMW models, opting for a more balanced and appealing design. While the crossover silhouette inherently has limitations in terms of radical design departures, BMW’s design team has skillfully incorporated sharp lines and subtle contours, making the X1 visually distinct and attractive. The San Remo Green Metallic paint option further enhances its appeal.
Side profile of the 2023 BMW X1 showcasing its sharp lines and elegant crossover design, not in San Remo Green Metallic.
The xDrive28i all-wheel-drive tester, priced at $46,795, is positioned competitively within its class. However, the absence of standard adaptive cruise control is a notable and somewhat puzzling omission, especially considering this feature is standard on much less expensive vehicles like the Toyota Corolla. It is available as an optional extra, highlighting a potentially cost-focused decision by BMW USA.
Another minor critique is the slightly slow restart time of the auto start/stop system and the lack of a dedicated button to disable it. However, engaging Sport mode, accessible via the drive mode button, deactivates the system and enhances the driving dynamics.
Conclusion: A Top Choice in its Class
Despite these minor points, the 2023 BMW X1 emerges as my current top pick in the subcompact luxury crossover segment. Its exceptional design, coupled with a wealth of advanced features, sets it apart from the competition. It would be an ideal vehicle for city driving or a stylish and safe first car for younger drivers with the budget for a luxury vehicle.
While the Lexus UX and Volvo XC40 remain strong contenders in the same price range, the BMW X1’s blend of design and technology gives it a distinct edge. In a class of excellent vehicles, the 2023 BMW X1 proves that some are indeed a cut above the rest.
