BMW X1 SUV: practical and comfortable

Price: £24,205 - £33,510

Pros: Comfortable to drive, well equipped, appealing diesel engines

Cons: Awkward styling, expensive to buy, heavy steering is a chore

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3/5 Carbuyer: “The BMW X1 is a compact crossover between a small hatchback and a large executive saloon. A higher body and more practical interior help make this BMW 1 Series more desirable. Factor in its good handling, powerful engines and low emissions and you have an impressive overall package. The X1 is more business-like to drive than its bigger brothers, the X3 and X5, but if you go for the diesel engines you get a good mix of economy and performance that easily rivals anything on offer among the MINI Countryman, Audi Q3, Volkswagen Tiguan or Ranger Rover Evoque.

The BMW X1 comes in two models – a four-wheel drive xDrive version or entry-level rear-wheel drive sDrive – and four main specifications – entry-level SE, Sport, xLine and top-of-the-range M Sport, all for less money than a Q3 or Evoque.”

4/5 Auto Express “The X1 isn’t revolutionary. As with all crossover vehicles, it doesn’t make a lot of sense on paper – it isn’t a full off-roader and doesn’t offer the practicality of an estate. But it’s sure to be a big sales success. By combining a raised body with decent handling, low emissions, punchy diesel engines and top quality, the BMW brings premium badge appeal to the small crossover segment. And it will appeal to motorists downsizing from larger SUVs and those wanting to step up from premium hatchbacks.

4/5 Fifth Gear: “On the road, the X1 benefits from having characteristics from both cars and SUVs. BMW has kept body roll sufficiently in check to allow it to be capable of a lively back-road sprint and, when equipped with four-wheel drive, there's a good deal of grip too.”

12/30 Top Gear: “Make no mistake, the BMW X1 is a good product. But is it one that anyone will actually want?”