First Drive: 2023 BMW X1 xDrive 28i

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If ever there was a case to be made reflecting the shift from sedans to sport-utility vehicles, the 2023 BMW X1 is exhibit one. Introduced back in 2009, it heralded the arrival of the subcompact luxury crossover in the German automaker’s ever-increasing ‘X’ stable. Its appeal was obvious from the opening bell: quality construction, sophisticated handling and luxury accoutrements befitting a BMW, good economy, and an entry-level price.

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Fast forward 14 years and that somewhat simple formula is still a winner as the X1 enters its third generation with an all-new design inside and out. There’s also an all-electric variant, the iX1, a very logical progression for the X brand into the BEV space, along with a couple of coming-soon plug-in hybrids, though their availability in Canada is still a little murky.

The new 2023 BMW X1 affords some excellent driving experiences, primarily due to the all-new powerplant, a 241-horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder. It’s a more powerful and spirited offering than the outgoing unit (by 13 ponies), and one that seems perfectly suited to the ever-so-slightly heavier crossover (just 7.7 kilograms). The twin-turbo is advertised as taking the X1 from a standstill to 97 km/h in 6.2 seconds, and with the seven-speed automatic gearbox tweaked to allow for longer revs between upshifts, there is no denying the sportiness of the drive. That dual-clutch gearbox replaces an eight-speed manumatic. It also feels very planted, despite a taller (4.3 cm), longer (4.3 cm), and wider (2.3 cm) body. The wheelbase and track have been stretched a little — 2.3- and 2 cm respectively — to accommodate that bigger body, and through my hours driving city streets, open highways, and mountain roads, I was thoroughly impressed with the handling and overall performance. Chassis improvements have certainly helped.

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There have been suspension upgrades to both axles, including lift-related damping on the front, a new integrated braking system, and a near-actuator wheel-slip limiter — now standard equipment. The new X1 certainly makes a strong case in that proverbial value-for-money argument.

Likewise, the all-new interior is first-class and feels much airier and more open than the outgoing model’s cabin. When I first climbed in, it wasn’t the gorgeous, curved display (a first in the X1), the new sleek instrument panel or the new floating armrest that caught my attention.

In fact, it was something that was missing. There is no iDrive dial on that console between the two front seats. A modern Bimmer without that iconic dial? What’s next, surgical removal of the kidney grille? But it is true, the new X1 is the first BMW in a long time to omit that circular knob controlling most of the cabin functions, and my guess is that you’ll see that dial disappear in other BMW models as they are refreshed and reimagined.

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So, what is in its place? There is a touchscreen, but BMW designers are betting that the enhanced voice command system will replace any and all need to reach out and touch something. Indeed, I found very few functions — climate, navigation, entertainment — that my voice could not operate utilizing the new BMW Operating System 8. That said, the climate system is fussy and a little too multi-layered when seeking the setting you’re after. I’m not a fan of this voice command trend, but as I discovered some time ago, tech advancements march mercilessly regardless of my personal foibles. Likewise, the whiz-bang self-parking and automated driving system aren’t selling points for me, but I gave both a try and they performed admirably.

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I am a big fan of that new interior, though. There are a number of now-standard features, including two-zone automatic climate control, sport leather steering, BMW Maps, and rain sensor with automatic headlight activation.

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The seats have also been improved, with more comfortable and better bolstering up front, particularly in the optional sport seats, and a raised driving position to improve visibility for the driver. There’s more storage space in the rear cargo area — between 540 and 1,600 litres depending on the 40/20/40 second row seat configuration — and the optional trailer tow hitch is now operated electrically at the touch of a button (and, perhaps, a voice command, though I didn’t try that out). Towing capacity is rated at 1,588 kg (3,500 lbs.).

As to the exterior, despite those longer, higher, and wider proportions, the new design presents a tight and cohesive package. Yes, that Kidney grille does upset some (too many in my opinion), but this is one sharp and tidy looking crossover. The slim new headlights certainly clean the front end up nicely.

There are two packages available: the xLine Package ($1,350) adds satin-aluminum roof rails, satin-aluminum window surrounds, and Sensatec dashboard; the M Sport Package ($2,700) adds adaptive M suspension, paddle shifters, M leather steering wheel, sport seats, Sensatec dashboard, high-gloss-black roof rails, and gloss-black window surround.

The 2023 BMW X1 xDrive28i is in Canadian dealerships now, with a starting price of $49,749.30.

Check out the latest BMW X1 model.