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2016 BMW X1 review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise

BMW X1 highlights

Customer rating

RepairPal reliability rating

Pros

  • Standard all-wheel drive
  • Peppy engine
  • Large cargo capacity

Cons

  • Only one engine option
  • Some competitors may be more fuel-efficient
  • Leather seats aren't standard

Mileage (EPA estimate)

22 city, 32 highway, 26 combined

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A small, sporty SUV with plenty of luxury

Whether you're planning your next road trip or your next trip to the grocery store, the 2016 BMW X1 has something for you. With standard all-wheel drive, a peppy 2.0L turbocharged engine, and eight-way power front seats, the X1 is ready for any stage of life you're in. You'll love the X1's impressive cargo capacity and optional aerodynamic kit on M Sport trims that will have you arriving in style, no matter your destination.

All BMW X1 years

Not sure what year to select? Learn about each BMW X1 generation from 2013 to 2026

What is new for the 2016 BMW X1?

  • The SDrive28i and XDrive35i trims have been discontinued for 2016.
  • X1 trims have been upgraded with Power Hatch/Deck Lid and Bluetooth Technology as standard equipment this year.
  • Automated Parking, Head Up Display, Automated Cruise Control, and Full Roof Rack features are now available as options on select trims.
  • The XDrive28i trim now comes with Power Seat(s) and Memory Seat(s) as standard equipment.

5 reasons to buy the 2016 BMW X1

1. Powerful performance  

Every 2016 X1 comes with BMW's turbocharged 2.0L inline four-cylinder engine, producing 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transition that smoothly gets the X1 across town, through the back roads, and back again in a flash. Shop for the M Sport trim to add a sport-tuned suspension, an aerodynamic body kit, and steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters for extra fun.  

2. Standard all-wheel drive 

You'll tame the roads no matter what the weather brings with the 2016 X1's standard all-wheel drive. BMW's xDrive system monitors where traction is needed most and transfers power to individual wheels in response. And with standard hill descent control, the X1's all-wheel-drive system will not only get you over the hills; it'll help you come down them too.  

3. A can't miss cabin  

The 2016 X1's small footprint doesn't mean the SUV's cabin skimps on space or luxury. Standard eight-way power driver and passenger seats give you just the right position, dual-zone automatic climate control keeps you and your seatmate equally comfortable, and driver memory seats mean you'll never have to find the right sitting angle again. Shop for a 2016 X1 with the available luxury package to get leather seats and wood interior trim.  

4. Tech at your fingertips  

If you want a vehicle with plenty of gadgets, the 2016 X1 won't disappoint. The X1 includes BMW's iDrive infotainment system with a touchpad controller and 6.5-inch screen and Bluetooth® connectivity allows you to play your favorite tunes through the seven-speaker sound system. Search for an X1 with a technology package to gain a navigation system and an 8.8-inch display. 

5. Features galore and more 

The 2016 X1 has plenty of features you'll appreciate, including full-length side curtain airbags, front knee airbags, and active front-seat head restraints. Shop for an X1 with the Plus package for advanced driver aids like a frontal collision warning and mitigation system with pedestrian detection and lane departure warnings. This will give you more peace of mind during every drive. 

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

3.7 out of 5

3 customer reviews

RepairPal reliability rating

3
1
2
Above Average

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.

View RepairPal's full rating of the BMW X1

BMW X1 features and specs

Curious how BMW X1 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

XDrive28i 4WD/AWD 4D Sport Utility

Standard Features

  • 4WD/AWD
  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • CD Audio
  • Cruise Control
  • Heated Mirrors
  • Leatherette Seats
  • Memory Seat(s)
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Power Hatch/Deck Lid
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Run Flat Tires
  • Side Airbags
  • Traction Control
  • Turbo Charged Engine

Optional Features

  • Alloy Wheels
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • Automated Parking
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Full Roof Rack
  • Harman Kardon Sound
  • Head Up Display
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Leather Seats
  • Memory Seat(s)
  • Navigation System
  • Panoramic Sunroof
  • Parking Sensors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Rear View Camera
  • Run Flat Tires
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Smart Key

Drive Wheels

All Wheel Drive (4WD/AWD)

Engine size

2.0L

Horsepower

228

Torque (ft-lbs)

258

Engine type

Turbo Gas

Fuel capacity

16.1

Wheelbase

105.1"

Overall length

174.8"

Width

71.7"

Height

63.5"

Leg room

F 40.4"/R 37"

Head room

F 42"/R 39.4"

Front tires

P225/50HR18

Rear tires

P225/50HR18

Seating capacity

5

Transmission

Automatic

2016 BMW X1 FAQ

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