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Road Test: 2010 BMW X1 xDrive 23d

BMW has finally launched its X1 in both the 2WD and AWD SUV guise, and from the immediate onset one notices that these models are very different. BMW has always had that athletic and bashful ‘bully’ stigma about them, but now the X1 will bring with it a bit more character.

This new BMW has a very charismatic and charming feel about it, and in a country where we value our freedom to express ourselves with trinkets and mobile toys, their introduction to our market could not be better timed. It is a welcome and healthy alternate to what’s been around for a while although one must remember that this is not an off-roader as someone had said, it is a sporty soft-roader.

The X1 however encompasses almost every aspect of what an SUV should be, from its good looks to its flexibility, but the most noticeable advantage the X1 has, is the clever engine that I am sure we will see more of soon. This gives the X1 a brilliant balance between solid quality and rugged luxury that few of its competitors have been able to offer.

I spent time in the X1 xDrive23d, a 2.0 litre turbo charged Diesel with some 150kW, and an astonishing 400Nm of torque. This common rail diesel unit is the first of its kind and makes use of a Variable Twin Turbo layout, whereby two different sized turbo’s not only allow a sequential and smooth delivery of power, but at lower revs the smaller turbo gives an immediate response to power demands. 

Although a rather well spaced and dynamic 6 speed manual is available, BMW’s 6 speed StepTronic is fast becoming a favourite partly because of its overall flexibility and sporty nature, but mostly because of its no fuss no hassle attitude when driven hard. Each selection is precise, crisp and immediate, and with a very torquey and spirited engine it makes for a near perfect match.

With the X1 sharing a similar sized frame as the 3 series means there is space for behind the scenes magic and the X1 is the perfect platform to show it. The X1 AWD system is made up of a clever multi-plate electronically actuated clutch that balances the torque between the front and rear wheels, and then as an optional extra the automatic cornering helps by applying the rear inside brake to assist in a turn.

By dimension, the X1 is not to be confused with its 1-series sibling and in fact is a slimmer version of the X3 but bears more of a resemblance to the X5, especially around the front. The X1 also plays with lights and shadows to give some fluidity to its rather tall stance especially seeing that the shoulder line rises towards the back. 

The greyed inserts in the bumpers and running sills enhances the contrast between this motorcar’s executive and then sporty personality and it shows when one looks at who is drawn to it. The interior is much the same with a fresh and revived styling similar to the 3 series, but maybe a little leaner, more athletic as far as equipment goes, and the choice of materials and colours are also a refreshing change from BMW.

The cabin is surprisingly spacious and visibility all round is good considering the raised waistline. In the X1 you are also slightly raised from the tar in a more commanding seating position up front, but the rear passengers have a more relaxed and slumped array with reclining seat backs and so the X1 will suite 4 adults in a luxurious format more than anything else.  

Equipment levels are up there with the best, from i-Drive, to SatNav, paddle shift, radio and cruise control at your finger tips and then a stunning H & K sound to name a few. The layout is also pretty logical and some more unimportant bits of information are also available on request. The test model also boasted a removable towbar and the full glass panoramic sunroof to add to the overall experience.  

On the road the X1 reinforces the marquees athletic ability without messing with luxury.   Feedback is a little too dampened for my liking and the steering is slightly heavy, but the X1 is precise and sure footed. With its better than average road-manners, rigid chassis and good handling the X1 is no slouch either. The cornering is precise, although the nose can get heavy and if you remember that this is not a sports car rather easy to drive.