BMW's baby SUV
By trying to make its latest SUV look like an ordinary car, BMW has created an oddity, says Erin Baker in The Daily Telegraph. But BMW is "the master of oddities" – finding niches within niches – and this small SUV for a "budget" buyer really works.
It exudes "restrained opulence", has SUV looks but, with reduced weight, a more sensible level of fuel efficiency, and the ride and handling "do not disappoint".
Indeed, it drives very well, says Ben Pulman in Car. It's "definitely up there with the class leaders" as a 4X4, with little body roll. At speed it's quiet too, and the engine is "a peach". The new BMW X1 is "more fun to drive, faster, cleaner and more efficient than any other rival we can think of.
It's basically as big as a 3-series Touring, yet costs a few grand less. What's not to like?"
Price: £22,660 to £29,055.
