The BMW X1 has always held a certain appeal as the entry point into the BMW SUV lineup. For many, it represents the first taste of BMW ownership, blending practicality with the brand’s renowned driving dynamics. Having previously experienced the second-generation X1, I approached the 2023 BMW X1 xDrive28i with considerable anticipation. My past experience with its predecessor was overwhelmingly positive, leaving me eager to discover if this new iteration could live up to, and even surpass, those fond memories. After spending time behind the wheel of the latest X1, I can confidently say that it not only meets expectations but in many ways, exceeds them, delivering a surprisingly enjoyable and well-rounded package.
My day with the 2023 BMW X1 began in Palm Springs, amidst a tempting array of brand-new BMW models. While the allure of the high-performance BMW M4 CSL was undeniable, a more pragmatic choice was needed to kick off the day. The X1, promising a blend of comfort and agility, seemed like the perfect starting point. It felt like the right car to ease into the day and get a feel for the driving environment before potentially unleashing something more extreme later on. Settling into the driver’s seat of the X1, I was ready to see what this compact SUV had to offer.
The 2023 BMW X1: An Excellent Choice for Families
2023 BMW X1 xDrive28i front exterior view driving on a scenic road
My initial destination was a familiar one for many drivers: Starbucks. Coffee was a necessary prerequisite before tackling the winding canyon roads that lay ahead. This brief detour, along with the subsequent drive to my chosen test route on California Highway 74, provided valuable insight into the X1’s everyday usability – its natural habitat. Let’s face it, the 2023 BMW X1 is primarily designed to be a family vehicle. It’s built to handle the mundane tasks of daily life: commuting through traffic, school drop-offs, and grocery runs. In these scenarios, the X1 proves to be a capable and comfortable companion.
The practicality of the X1 extends to its passenger and cargo space. The rear seats offer ample room, even for adults. While the rear bench might be described as firm rather than plush, legroom and headroom are generous, ensuring that longer journeys in the back are perfectly manageable. Furthermore, the trunk space is surprisingly accommodating. It easily swallowed camera equipment with room to spare, and a quick visual assessment suggested it would have no problem accommodating a stroller and the usual paraphernalia associated with young children.
2023 BMW X1 xDrive28i rear interior view showcasing spacious back seats
However, families with younger children should consider one potential drawback. If you frequently use car seats, particularly rear-facing ones, the front passenger space might become somewhat limited. It’s advisable to bring your car seat along for a test drive to ensure a comfortable fit for everyone, especially if front passenger legroom is a priority for your family.
Step Inside: A Premium and Sporty BMW Interior
2023 BMW X1 xDrive28i interior showcasing dashboard and infotainment screen
The interior of the 2023 BMW X1 represents a significant departure from previous BMW designs. BMW has completely revamped the cabin for this third generation, creating a space that feels both modern and distinctly BMW. The result is not just different; it’s genuinely impressive. The cabin exudes a sporty yet premium ambiance, with excellent front seats, outstanding visibility, and mostly impressive technology integration.
2023 BMW X1 xDrive28i vertical interior view highlighting touchscreen display
“Mostly impressive” is a deliberate choice of words, as there is one notable point of contention: the absence of the iDrive rotary dial. The BMW X1 stands alone in the current BMW lineup in omitting this familiar control, and its removal feels like a misstep. While touchscreen functionality is ubiquitous in modern cars, relying solely on touch input for every function, especially while driving, can be cumbersome. This is exacerbated in the X1 due to the screen’s positioning. Even for a driver of average height and arm length, reaching the touchscreen requires an uncomfortable stretch, making it distracting and frustrating to use on the move.
Despite this ergonomic hiccup, the rest of the cabin deserves high praise. In terms of design and quality, it ranks among BMW’s best interiors. While the touchscreen-only iDrive system is a definite downside, it’s not necessarily a deal-breaker. The voice command system works surprisingly well as an alternative, and with time, drivers can adapt to the touchscreen interface. However, the omission of the iDrive dial remains a notable disappointment in an otherwise exceptional interior.
Handling Prowess: Think Hot Hatch, Not Just Crossover
2023 BMW X1 xDrive28i dynamic exterior shot cornering on a racetrack
Across all generations, the BMW X1 has consistently delivered engaging handling, albeit in different flavors. The original, rear-wheel-drive X1 was remarkably compact and agile, reminiscent of a large hot hatch. The second generation, while based on a front-wheel-drive platform, retained sharp steering and sufficient agility to remain enjoyable, setting a handling benchmark in its class. The 2023 model continues this tradition, arguably surpassing its predecessors in driving dynamics.
The new BMW X1 boasts steering that rivals some of the best in the current BMW range. This might sound surprising for a front-wheel-drive-based crossover, but the X1’s steering is genuinely quick, precise, and well-weighted. As you apply steering lock, the weight builds progressively, providing a sense of connection to the front wheels, even if outright “feel” is somewhat muted. This well-engineered steering contributes significantly to both directional confidence and on-center stability.
The Driving Experience: Fun and Engaging
2023 BMW X1 xDrive28i driving on open road showcasing motion
Much like a sporty hatchback, the BMW X1 exhibits a subtle degree of body roll, just enough to communicate the chassis’s movements without feeling excessive. It settles confidently onto its tires, exhibiting impressive grip. There’s a certain fluidity to the X1’s handling that’s absent in some ostensibly sportier BMW models. Having driven numerous small crossovers, the new X1 stands out as arguably the best in its segment when it comes to steering and overall handling balance.
The suspension is also expertly tuned. My test vehicle was a relatively base-specification model, lacking adaptive dampers. Yet, the balance between ride comfort and handling prowess was remarkably well-judged for a crossover. The ride leans towards the firmer side, which aligns with my personal preference, contributing to the sporty feel. While some buyers might prefer the softer ride characteristics of competitors like the Audi Q3 or Mercedes GLA, traditional BMW enthusiasts will likely appreciate the X1’s more taut setup.
On winding canyon roads, the 2023 BMW X1 proved to be genuinely fun to drive. While it doesn’t quite reach the outright excitement levels of models like the BMW 3 Series, it surpassed all expectations for a compact SUV. My primary reservation was related to the specific configuration of the test car. The absence of the M Sport package meant no paddle shifters, and with the traditional gear lever replaced by a small toggle switch, manual gear selection was impossible. This detracted slightly from the driving enjoyment and reduced control when descending hills.
Overall, however, the BMW X1 offers a surprisingly engaging and enjoyable driving experience for a small crossover, one that owners are likely to find genuinely rewarding.
Electrification Consideration: The iX1 Question
BMW iX1 xDrive30 electric vehicle in urban setting
The BMW X1 xDrive28i is powered by a familiar 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 241 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. While perfectly adequate, the engine lacks the outright performance and character to truly excite. It performs its function effectively, providing sufficient acceleration for the X1, but leaves something to be desired in terms of engagement. In an ideal scenario, an electric powertrain would be preferable. The all-electric BMW iX1, while not currently available in the US, is not only quicker but also more enjoyable to drive overall.
In a world increasingly moving towards electrification, the appeal of a conventional engine in a vehicle like the X1 is waning, at least for this reviewer. Unless it’s a truly exceptional engine, such as Porsche’s 4.0-liter flat-six or the Corvette Z06’s new V8, the immediate torque and smooth power delivery of electric motors are becoming increasingly desirable. The iX1, sadly unavailable in the US market, would be the preferred choice over the standard X1.
On a positive note, the X1’s seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission is commendable. It delivers quick and responsive shifts in “D” mode, while maintaining smoothness and always seeming to select the appropriate gear for the driving situation.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the 2023 BMW X1?
2023 BMW X1 xDrive28i front three quarter view parked outdoors
In conclusion, the 2023 BMW X1 emerges as an excellent family car. It offers ample space for a family of four, a level of comfort befitting its premium badge, and a surprising degree of driving enjoyment that upholds the BMW ethos. The new BMW X1 represents a clear and significant advancement over its predecessor, and the prospect of a future M Performance variant is genuinely exciting. Despite minor drawbacks like the lack of the iDrive controller, the 2023 BMW X1 xDrive28i is a compelling package and a strong contender in the compact luxury SUV segment.
2023 BMW X1 xDrive28i: Pros and Cons
The Good
- Attractive and modern design both inside and out
- High-quality interior materials and construction
- Engaging and surprisingly fun driving dynamics
The Bad
- Over-reliance on touchscreen controls; lack of physical buttons
- Absence of the traditional iDrive rotary knob
Frequently Asked Questions about the 2023 BMW X1
When will the 2023 BMW X1 be available?
The 2023 BMW X1 xDrive28i model is currently available for purchase in the United States.
What is the MSRP of the 2023 BMW X1?
The 2023 BMW X1 has a starting MSRP of $38,600, excluding a $995 destination and handling fee.
Is there an electric version of the BMW X1 available in the US?
Unfortunately, the all-electric BMW iX1 is not yet offered for sale in the United States, although it is available in European markets.
Is the 2023 BMW X1 larger than the previous generation?
Yes, the 2023 BMW X1 has grown in size compared to the outgoing model. It now measures 177.2 inches in length, 72.6 inches in width, and 64.6 inches in height, with a wheelbase of 106 inches. This translates to an increase of 1.7 inches in length, 0.9 inches in width, and 1.7 inches in height, and a 0.9-inch longer wheelbase. In metric units, the dimensions are 4500 mm long, 1845 mm wide, and 1642 mm tall, with a 2692 mm wheelbase.
2023 BMW X1 xDrive28i Ratings
| Feature | Rating |
|---|---|
| Exterior Appeal | 8/10 |
| Interior Quality | 8/10 |
| Steering Feedback | 7/10 |
| Performance | 8/10 |
| Handling | 8/10 |
| BMWness/Driving Machine Spirit | 9/10 |
| Price Point | 8/10 |
| Overall | 8/10 |
Overall Score: 8/10
The BMW X1 demonstrates a clear evolution over its predecessor, establishing itself as one of the most compelling and well-rounded BMW models currently available.
