2013 BMW X1 xDrive35i

The 2013 BMW X1 is a new subcompact crossover SUV for the U.S. market and went on sale late last year. The X1 has been sold in Europe since 2009 but has just made it to the U.S. market. It’s even been offered in Canada, but the U.S. is just now getting it. BMW wasn’t sure how well the X1 would sell here, but the compact crossover market is growing here and BMW doesn’t want to miss out on the action. This week we’ll be testing a Glacier Silver Metallic top model xDrive35i.
When this X1 tester arrived, we noticed it looks very similar to the BMW X3. There are subtle refinements that are different but we needed to look close to pick them up. The U.S. version gets a more muscular front fascia and bumpers than the current European-market model. It’s the smallest model in the Bavarian automakers stable of SUVs and is about 5 inches shorter in height and 6.5 inches shorter in length than the X3.

Extra comfort inside

Once we get inside, there are more obvious changes; the X1 gets a more upscale look with improved use of chrome and leatherette, with real leather as an option. The tester came with leather Nevada Coral Red seats that looked sporty and sharp. They contrast well with the black dash and contrasting black stitching. It was easy to find a comfortable driving position with the tilt/telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel. Because of the center console iDrive knob, BMW added an extra removable stand-alone cupholder on the passenger side of the console which worked well to place my iPhone.

In the back there’s plenty of room for two average size adults and comes with an integrated drop-down console with two cupholders. The panoramic sunroof stretches all the way to back seat for open top viewing. The rear seats easily fold down flat for an extra large cargo area.  With the rear seats up, cargo capacity measures 14.8 cubic feet. Fold them down and space opens up to 47.7 cubes.
This X1 xDrive 35i ($38,450) tester comes well-equipped and the optional Sport Line ($1,900) adds Sport Seats, 18-inch allow wheels, and high-gloss black trim. It also featured the Cold weather package ($550) with heated steering wheel and heated front seats. Rear view camera located in the center dash and parking distance control were also included.

Two engine choices

Power for the BMW X1 sDrive28i and all-wheel-drive BMW xDrive28i will come from a new turbocharged and direct-injected 2.0-liter four-cylinder making 240 horsepower. This same 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is found in the 2012 BMW Z4 sDrive28i and 2012 BMW 328i. This X1 xDrive35i, meanwhile, is powered by a 300-horsepower, turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6. It comes mated to a six-speed Steptronic automatic. EPA estimates for fuel mileage is 18/27 city/highway.