The X1 is, naturally, smaller than the X3. However, that smaller stature doesn't mean you're going to be cramped—well, not too much at least. In the front passenger seat, space is ample. The seats are uber comfortable, and I could see myself riding shotgun for a road trip in this number any day. Driving the X1 is a bit different. While the seat is the same, the throttle position is a bit odd. At first, I thought I was driving a bit off-centre and checked to make sure my foot was aligned in the middle of the pedal. It was, however, my shin and knee that were still firmly pressed against the carpeted middle stack, making me feel more cramped than I would have liked. I can't imagine a larger driver (me being a measly 5'2”) appreciating the close-quarter feel.
In the back, two adults will find the space comfy, but not necessarily cozy. Legroom is cut shorter than in the X3, however, if you have a considerate driver and front passenger they can ensure their seats are a little farther forward so your knees don't jab into their kidneys. However, try and cram three full-size adults in the back (which we did) and the outer two will find themselves in a rather uncomfortable position with a large hump pushing into their outer shoulder blades.
But all that flies straight out the gloriously large sunroof when you get behind the wheel and actually drive the X1. Outfitted with hydraulic steering and sporting a near 50/50 weight distribution, this baby Beemer really handles the road well. With a longer wheelbase and lowered suspension (to maintain the “small” look despite having nearly the same ground clearance as the X3 and X5), the X1 borders on the MINI Countryman side in terms of go-kart feel (though it's not quite there yet).
As far as first impressions go, I have to say I'm sufficiently impressed. Will it do well on the market? That depends. I believe it will only because it's something “new” and “small” from a maker that's already known for making reliable, high-quality products.
And with a starting price tag that slides in at a massive $10k less than the 3 Series Touring wagon at $38,900, the X1 is set to be quite a steal for those looking for a bit more cargo space and headroom without the massive SUV status, inflated sticker price and dreaded wagon moniker.
In the back, two adults will find the space comfy, but not necessarily cozy. Legroom is cut shorter than in the X3, however, if you have a considerate driver and front passenger they can ensure their seats are a little farther forward so your knees don't jab into their kidneys. However, try and cram three full-size adults in the back (which we did) and the outer two will find themselves in a rather uncomfortable position with a large hump pushing into their outer shoulder blades.
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| The front seats are uber comfortable, and I could see myself riding shotgun for a road trip in this number any day. (Photo: BMW) |
But all that flies straight out the gloriously large sunroof when you get behind the wheel and actually drive the X1. Outfitted with hydraulic steering and sporting a near 50/50 weight distribution, this baby Beemer really handles the road well. With a longer wheelbase and lowered suspension (to maintain the “small” look despite having nearly the same ground clearance as the X3 and X5), the X1 borders on the MINI Countryman side in terms of go-kart feel (though it's not quite there yet).
As far as first impressions go, I have to say I'm sufficiently impressed. Will it do well on the market? That depends. I believe it will only because it's something “new” and “small” from a maker that's already known for making reliable, high-quality products.
And with a starting price tag that slides in at a massive $10k less than the 3 Series Touring wagon at $38,900, the X1 is set to be quite a steal for those looking for a bit more cargo space and headroom without the massive SUV status, inflated sticker price and dreaded wagon moniker.
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