Last week I got to experience a bit of real luxury when I drove the petrol version of the BMW X1. The third iteration of the X1 is slightly larger than the previous model.
The X1 has been produced by the German manufacturer since 2009. It came in a Frozen Pure Grey colour, a bit like the Irish weather we had last week, but much more appealing.
Initially the car was positioned as the smallest SUV in the BMW line-up, below the X3, aiming at a wider range of customers due to its smaller size, increased efficiency, and a lower price tag due to the all-wheel drive layout being optional.
The second generation of the X1 arrived in 2016 as a front wheel drive and by then it was no longer the smallest SUV in the BMW stable as that title was taken by the X2.
As with most new models of new cars the third generation of the XI is larger than the second generation, but we are only talking millimetres here. It’s 44mm taller, 53mm longer and 24 mm wider, which means more head and leg room plus a larger boot. But no spare wheel as BMW have run-flat tyres. But in truth most drivers would prefer a proper spare wheel, just for peace of mind.
At the front you get the famous kidney-design grill, which is synonymous with BMW going back 90 years to 1933 when that design was first used in their 303. My test car also had a sun roof which will cost you extra. Sadly we had no sun last week, but it didn’t let the rain in either.
The car opens automatically when you approach it, once the key is on your person or handbag and locks automatically when you walk away. Inside the seats were Oyster Vernasca Leather. They might be difficult to keep clean, but I’m told a damp cloth should do the trick.
Sales of new cars for the month March were up 37% compared to 2022, but SIMI keep telling us that sales are still down B.C. i.e. before Covid in 2019. It’s going to take some time to get back to those B.C. figures. BMW were tenth overall in the March figures, not bad for a luxury brand. With sales, I know that much depends on the supply that Irish dealers can secure.
When you sit in and grab hold of that sturdy steering wheel it sets the tone for the rest of the car. It really is a solid, comfortable car and my family who are not used to experiencing the luxury of a BMW, were able to enjoy the high driving post and the comfort that the X1 provided. Also available in diesel, hybrid and electric mode.
I reckon that the X1 will help BMW keep the pressure on their great rivals Audi Mercedes and Volvo.
With a full tank of petrol leaving the Automotive Team in Sandyford the range was 575km. But with some sensible driving along the M50 on a quiet Monday morning, I saw the range rise to over 600km. Definitely not a thirsty engine.
Prices start at €48,620 for the 1.5-litre petrol model, while the 2.0-litre petrol version with a 48-volt mild-hybrid motor starts at €60,990. When you add all in the extras the price of the car as tested came to €74,274.
It’s not cheap, but of course you don’t have to opt for all those extras, which are available. Definitely worth a test drive if you fancy a bit of luxury. And I notice a lot of young people driving 12 and 15 year-old second hand Beemers, so they definitely hold their value.
