Wow, This SUV Is A Huge Improvement! (BMW X1 2023 Review)

Should you buy the new BMW X1 SUV or the iX1 electric version? We test the cheapest version of the X1 to get a first taste of what the luxury small SUV is like.

The new third-generation BMW X1 has grown in size. It’s marketed as a small SUV, but really, it’s midsize. It is as big as the first-gen X3! The X1 will be sold in Australia with a FWD three-cylinder turbo petrol (X1 sDrive18i), an AWD four-cylinder turbo petrol (xDrive20i), and an AWD electric version (iX1).

In today’s video, Chasing Cars editor Tom Baker gets a first Australian drive in the X1 sDrive18i FWD.

The X1 competes with the Audi Q3, Mercedes-Benz GLA, Lexus UX and NX, and the Range Rover Evoque.

As always, we don’t accept advertising from car manufacturers, and we’re powered by Budget Direct - so this is an independent, honest review of the BMW X1.

Time codes:
0:00 - Intro
1:04 - Interior & Tech
4:33 - Back Seats
5:36 - Boot Space
6:54 - Running Costs
8:19 - Driving Dynamics
12:45 - Verdict

Chasing Cars is Australia's most independent source of new car reviews, car industry news, comparisons and car guides. We give you a critical look at every new car you should consider!

[chasingcars]

How do you feel about subscription features already built into the car, but that you have to pay to activate?

[vinkiaan]

Great review by Chasing Cars 👍 test drove 18i X1, ordered one, beautiful interiors, great driving experience, pretty decent rear space, good family SUV, the subscription thingy is funny though :)

[Rtruo]

Yeah in the US BMW pulled back on the subscription option due to public outcry… a few states have actually even introduced legislation that prevents manufacturers from charging subscription fees for features already installed in the car. What a mess.

[ashleygordon]

I’m looking at downsizing from a Mazda CX8 to an X1…I have a 2.5 year old and 6 year old still in car seats. General feel on how it’d be ok for a run around town family car? We’re keeping the CX8 for trips etc.

[PhiveWalls]

If I don't opt for the heated seat and steering subscription, can I charge BMW for carrying the extra dead weight around?

[Joe-egml]

Nice review. Have a x1 msport with 20s on order. Like ur smart watch, what is it?

[avuazahc]

Even here in South Africa we are getting the same 1.8 sdrive and also a unique 2.0d sdrive as a starters. My wish is 2.0d xdrive with its 140kw/400nm as found in 220d GC

[skulkloe]

Hacker challenge - jailbreak the BMW and activate all the BS subscription features for free.

[vitusyu]

Good SUV, a significant and thoughtful upgrade, and you have a good review here also!

[devang]

How does it compare to the Mazda cx5 turbo?

[shanebagnall]

Great review. My wife has ordered a 2.0lt MSport. I’m very impressed with the size and styling changes BMW has made over the previous model.

[Funktastico]

appreciate b-roll pan shot of interiors for future videos

[ashokaabm]

Thanks for the nice review! Any idea about the real world fuel economy of Xdrive20i Tom ?

[jamesyu]

Yes! Huge improvement, but the price now here in Canada is same as the price of BMW X3. Do you think we still need choose it? Why not X3? Which has better gearbox zf8.

[johnholst]

First! Love the look of this new X1! Thanks Tom!

[uxtfcbg]

Where do you get these prices from? The xdrive 20i you won’t buy knew under 85k and you’re calling it 65k plus on roads so 70odd.

[kevinn]

We don't have subscriptions in Canada. That's a terrible way to go. What keeps them from changing the subscription price going forward? I'd say look at cable TV now vs all of these subscription offers and how quickly they add up. No thank you to subscription heated seats.

In Canada a 2023 X1 2.8 X drive, M sport with that premium package you mentioned with 19" wheels for 55k CAD. 62k Aussie. This has 241hp. What's this cost in the great country of Australia?

[Billywoo]

Subscription means production cost saving, simplicity and future revenue. I agree, it does seem materially wasteful to include bits and bobs that may never be used.

[sjh]

Could you fit a spare wheel in the under the floor space ? Are the front and rear wheels the same size ?

[MaxxKoggen]

/they are going to keep the rotary dial away for 2 gens and the bring it back as an added extra.