2014 BMW X1 review

1. Agile on any road    

If you're looking for sharp handling that gives you confidence in the curves, the X1's got it. The sub-compact SUV's short 108.7-inch wheelbase and low profile carve a path through any road. Shop for the M Sport trim to add a custom-tuned sport suspension and aerodynamic body kit that will further boost the X1's agility while revving up its styling. Spirited drivers, you've found your soul mate.  

2. Punchy performance 

Any X1 trim you choose is sure to please, thanks to the standard TwinPower turbocharged four-cylinder engine that packs 240 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Thrill seekers should look for the xDrive35i trim that swaps out the smaller engine for a 3.0L TwinPower turbocharged six-cylinder with 300 horses and 300 lb-ft max torque for optimum fun. Shift performance into another gear by shopping for an X1 with available steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.  

3. Traction under your control  

The X1's standard trims come with rear-wheel drive, but you can increase the traction control by finding models with BMW's xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive system. With xDrive, the system senses when a wheel is slipping and sends power to the wheels that need it most, helping you conquer the road. Choose an X1 with the available Performance Control feature that intelligently manages engine power and braking to improve handling even further.  

4. Luxury in a small package 

There's plenty to love in the standard features from the X1, including leatherette seats, heated mirrors, an eight-speaker stereo system, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Shop for a Sport Line trim for steering-mounted paddle shifters and bolstered front sport seats. Opt for the M Sport trim to max out the X1's handling and style with an aerodynamic kit on the front and rear numbers and side skirts, a sport suspension, and BMW's Performance Control for automatic engine power and wheel management.  

5. Fuel-sipping fun 

You don't have to compromise on fuel economy just because the X1 has enthusiastic engines.  An automatic stop-start feature turns the engine off at stops to use less fuel, which can be manually disabled. The rear-wheel drive X1 sDrive28i and the all-wheel drive xDrive28i both have a combined EPA-estimated 26 mpg, while the larger 3.0L xDrive35i gets a respectable combined EPA-estimated 21 mpg.