2020 BMW X1

Like others in its class, the 2020 BMW X1 blurs the line between a traditional hatchback and a small crossover. It’s small and efficient, like the former, but has extra ground clearance and a high seating position, nudging it toward the latter. Available all-wheel drive seals the deal. At $36,195, it’s also the cheapest model BMW sells in the United States, beating out the small 2 Series coupe by a mere $100. Since its redesign half a decade ago, BMW’s entry-level crossover has defied company tradition and enthusiast expectations with its front-wheel-drive layout. Sharing most of its underlying architecture with offerings from Mini, the X1 repels BMW purists, but buyers who care more about everyday practicality and a small, city-friendly footprint can find quite a bit to love about BMW’s baby utility vehicle. It's one of the most compelling vehicles in its class, especially given its above-average interior space that lets it err more on the crossover side of that blurred line than rivals like the Audi Q3 and Lexus UX. It's more like the impressive new Mercedes GLB in that regard and we think both that and the X1 are two of the segment's strongest entries because of it.    What’s new for 2020? The BMW X1 received a mid-cycle update for the 2020 model year. BMW took the opportunity to bring its styling more in line with its larger siblings, adding LED fog lights and taillights to go with its new, optional LED headlights. The M Sport package also gets revised aerodynamic elements for a sportier look. A set of walk-up puddle lamps with “X1” graphics round out the exterior updates. Inside, the X1 now boasts a standard 8.8-inch infotainment system, contrast-stitched leatherette and leather interior elements (depending on package), and those who opt for leather will also get color-matched trim on the lower dash and door panels. BMW also updated the X1’s eight-speed transmission, which sports a new gear selector as a result. What’s the interior and in-car technology like? The X1 may be a BMW, but it’s still the cheapest BMW. Fortunately, the interior doesn’t drive that point home. The X1 makes use of premium plastics and imitation leather on base models, and loaded-up examples get premium elements such as Dakota leather upholstery and wood or aluminum trim. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel are also available as stand-alone options. The standard infotainment system ships with an 8.8-inch screen paired to BMW’s iDrive 6 system (more recently redesigned BMW models feature iDrive 7.0). Apple CarPlay is standard and works wirelessly (often with difficulty), but Android Auto is not yet available. That feature is slated for introduction to BMW’s lineup later in 2020. How big is the 2020 BMW X1? The X1 rides on a compact, 105-inch wheelbase. Inside, it feels almost the same size as a typical compact hatchback. In practical terms, the X1 is about 8 inches longer and 4 inches taller than a Volkswagen Golf. Unlike the mechanically similar X2, which BMW …
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