BMW X1

DIMENSIONS EXPANDED; WHAT ABOUT TALENT?

- STEPHEN DOBIE

BMW’S SMALLEST SUV has grown up. While the X1 launched in 2009 as a slightly awkward-looking entry point to posh crossover ownership, it’s matured nicely into its third generation. Its dimensions all but match the original X3, much in the same way a 3 Series now fills the footprint of an old 5.

While we might normally chastise a carmaker for needlessly enlarging its cars, the X1 wears its growth very well, in both its styling and practicality. This is one of the smarter, less controversial BMW designs of recent years and boasts plentiful room and some grownup technological advances inside.

The third-gen X1 launches in Australia with a simple line-up consisting of two petrol engines. The X1 sDrive18i kicks things off at $53,900 (before on-road costs). A 1.5-litre three-pot turbo engine drives the front wheels only through a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. Peak power is 115kW, enough to hustle its 1.5-tonne frame to 100km/h in 9.2secs. Not exactly quick, but enough for day-to-day life.

If performance is more of a concern, you’ll be better served by the $65,900 X1 xDrive20i, which sees a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo drive all four wheels – again, through a standard seven-speed DCT – with 150kW yielding a sprightlier 7.1sec sprint time, aided by some mild-hybrid boost. Much more powerful plug-in hybrid versions, as well as the fully electric iX1, will follow in due course. BMW Australia has opted not to bring in the diesel versions that European buyers get to choose.