2025 BMW X1 review
The BMW X1 is the smallest SUV in the BMW lineup, technically falling into the subcompact SUV category. However, the X1 is more spacious than most subcompact SUVs due to its boxy shape. BMW gives the X1 plenty of room for both front- and second-row passengers, as well as a surprising amount of cargo space. The current generation, on sale since 2023, is a much better all-around vehicle than the second generation that ended in 2022, but all X1 model years are well built, with seating for five and a responsive turbocharged engine.
Explore the evolution of the BMW X1
Get our expert take on used BMW X1 models, or view year-by-year changes.
Third generation BMW X1
The latest-generation X1 is available in two models: the basic X1 xDrive28i and, starting in 2024, the X1 M35i xDrive offering more power and sportier handling. Both trim levels include BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system. The X1 offers seating for up to five people in two rows, and the second-row seat splits and folds down to allow extra cargo space. Because of the X1’s boxy, space-efficient design, both the front- and second-row seats offer adult-friendly headroom and legroom.
Under the hood, both X1 trims feature a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, with the M35i tuned up to make more power. The X1 xDrive28i returns an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in combined city/highway driving, while the EPA estimates the X1 M35i will return 26 mpg combined
.Model highlights
2.0-liter turbocharged engine
Eight-speed automatic transmission
All-wheel drive
Seating for up to five people
Modern styling
Surprisingly spacious cargo capacity
Second generation BMW X1
The second-generation BMW X1 was the first generation to be assembled on a front-wheel-drive platform. However, all X1 models include BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system. This generation of the X1 is known for its crisp handling and rewarding engine power, but it is not as comfortable as the latest generation. EPA-estimated fuel economy for this generation is 26 mpg in combination city/highway driving
.This generation of the X1 is also known for having excellent cargo space. As with all vehicles, later model years will offer more up-to-date features in infotainment and driver-assistance technology. The second-generation X1 is known as an affordable entry-level BMW SUV for family use.
Model highlights
2.0-liter turbocharged engine
Eight-speed automatic transmission
All-wheel drive
Seating for five passengers
Good cargo capacity
Changes by year
Latest generation from 2023 - present
2025 BMW X1
2024 BMW X1
Highlights
First year for the X1 M35i performance model
iDrive 9 infotainment system introduced late in 2024
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2023 BMW X1
Previous generation from 2016 - 2022
2022 BMW X1
2021 BMW X1
2020 BMW X1
Highlights
First year for 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system
Updated exterior styling
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2019 BMW X1
Highlights
Driver-assistance tech features became standard
GPS navigation became standard
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2018 BMW X1
2017 BMW X1
2016 BMW X1
Highlights
First year for the completely redesigned second-generation BMW X1
Larger and more comfortable than the first generation
2.0-liter turbo engine now the only engine available
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Reliability
RepairPal gave the BMW X1 an overall reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks BMW X1 11th out of 18 among Luxury Compact SUVs.
RepairPal reports that the average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a BMW X1 is $711, compared to an average of $599 for Luxury Compact SUVs and $591 for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.
According to RepairPal, BMW X1 owners bring their vehicles into a repair shop for unscheduled repairs an average of 1.3 times per year, compared to an average of 1.2 times for Luxury Compact SUVs and 1.3 times for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.
RepairPal reported that the probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 8% for the BMW X1, compared to an average of 10% for Luxury Compact SUVs and 14% for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.
Jeff Zurschmeide has been an automotive journalist for more than 20 years, covering the new car business as well as motorsports and industry news. He lives in Tillamook, Oregon, at the confluence of great roads, nice weather, and plenty of space for a collection of strange old automobiles.
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