2017 BMW X1

by BMW of Silver Spring

New for 2017

Following a full 2016-model-year redesign, the X1 enters 2017 with only minor changes to equipment availability.

Smartly Packaged Utility Vehicle

In its second year since a full redesign, the 2017 BMW X1 continues to offer a clever packaging compromise. It offers the styling, high-riding position of an SUV, the driving dynamics of a traditional BMW, and the footprint and packaging efficiency of a compact car.

Performance

The X1 truly makes use of all of the resources BMW has to offer. The current-generation X1 shares the UKL front-wheel drive platform with the MINI lineup, but BMW designers and engineers gave it the look and performance of the company’s more traditional rear-wheel drive models. The result is a vehicle that offers the packaging advantages of a more conventional car, but that is still a real BMW.

BMW offers two X1 models: the sDrive28i and xDrive28i. Both use the same 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which produces 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, with two choices of where to send its power. The sDrive28i model has front-wheel drive, and the xDrive28i has all-wheel drive.

BMW estimates 0 to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds for the X1 sDrive28i, and 6.3 seconds for the X1 xDrive28i. Both models have a top speed of 131 mph. The X1 sDrive28i gets an EPA-rated 26 mpg combined (23 mpg city, 32 mpg highway), while the X1 xDrive28i gets 25 mpg combined (22 mpg city, 31 mpg highway).*

Thanks to its MINI-derived platform, the X1 has a lower center of gravity and lower weight than most traditional SUVs, helping it to live up to BMW’s “Ultimate Driving Machine” tagline on the road. The X1 also comes standard with the Servotronic speed-sensitive electric power steering system already used on various other BMW models. The optional all-wheel drive system can send up to 100 percent of the power to the rear wheels, giving the X1 a more traditional BMW feel.

Features

The 2017 BMW X1 is a five-door, five-seat compact crossover utility vehicle. Pricing starts at $33,100.**

Standard equipment includes 18-inch alloy wheels, satin aluminum roof rails, chrome exhaust tips, eight-way power front seats, SensaTec upholstery, tilt-and-telescopic steering column, power tailgate, three-spoke leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, iDrive infotainment system with 6.5-inch display screen and central controller, seven-speaker audio system, Bluetooth®, USB connectivity, and more.

Optional features include 19-inch wheels, harman/kardon® surround-sound system, sport seats, sliding and reclining rear-seat adjustment, panoramic moonroof, and enhanced USB and Bluetooth® plus smartphone integration.

In addition to individual options, BMW offers several option packages. On the convenience side, the Technology Package adds a head-up display, real-time traffic information, app suite, and navigation with touchpad controller, while the Luxury Package includes an auto-dimming rearview mirror, upgraded trim, leather upholstery, and lumbar support. The M Sport Package includes sport suspension, a body kit, a sport-tuned transmission, and more.

Design

The 2017 BMW X1 features very clever packaging, combining a front-wheel drive platform with the proportions of a more traditional rear-wheel drive car or four-wheel drive SUV. The result is an appealing-looking design that makes the most of its footprint.

The exterior design combines the high riding position that is a major selling point for all SUVs, along with a wide track and short front and rear overhangs which give a sportier, more planted appearance. Round headlights and a twin-kidney grille mark the X1 as a BMW.

BMW also optimized the exterior design for aerodynamic efficiency. The X1 features smooth underbody paneling, air deflectors on the front wheel arches, vertical aeroblades, and a rear spoiler. It also sports “Air Curtains,” which help pull air around the outside of the front wheels to reduce drag-creating turbulence.

The X1’s front-wheel drive platform allows for a transversely-mounted engine, which in turn frees up space to expand the cabin. BMW boasts of greater head and legroom than the previous-generation X1, and 15 percent more cargo space (based on European standards). The standard power tailgate and 40/20/40 split-fold rear seatback, along with the optional slide-and-recline rear seat, make it easy to haul just about any combination of people and stuff.

Safety

Standard safety equipment on the 2017 BMW X1 includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, and a full array of airbags. Optional features include adaptive cruise control with Active Driving Assistant, parking assist, park distance control, and a rearview camera.

Verdict

The 2017 BMW X1 offers an exciting compromise between the performance of a BMW sedan and the practicality of a crossover.

For more information or to schedule a test drive of the 2017 BMW X1, contact us online or visit BMW of Silver Spring at 3211 Automobile Blvd, Silver Spring, MD 20904.

*EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary depending on driving habits and conditions.

**MSRP excludes destination & handling fee of $995, tax, title, license, and registration.

Image: BMW