Traditional wisdom says if you’re a jack-of-all-trades, you’re a master of none. Spend some time behind the wheel of the all-new BMW X1, however, and you’re likely to come away thinking that rule doesn’t apply here.
Like all BMWs, the X1 is more at home on pavement than off. This compact crossover doesn’t have the burly construction to tackle rugged dirt roads, but that’s about the only important SUV quality it lacks. Its eye-catching new styling would fit in at any urban valet stand, and its strong 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine (241 hp), optional sport-tuned suspension, and handling-oriented AWD make it surprisingly enjoyable to hustle along a winding stretch of asphalt.
Inside, the new X1’s slightly larger exterior dimensions make for a stylish interior with good room for 4. Fold the rear seatbacks down and you’ll have a decent 57 cubic feet of cargo space.
As for nits to pick, most comfort and convenience features for a model in this price range, such as heated seats and adaptive cruise control, should come as standard equipment. But—as is typical for BMW—they’re extra-cost options here. On the upside, a navigation system, satellite radio, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration are standard.
