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2021 BMW X1 review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise
7 photos

BMW X1 highlights

Customer rating

RepairPal reliability rating

Pros

  • Plenty of power
  • Athletic handling
  • Lots of room for passengers and cargo

Cons

  • Ride quality may be too firm
  • No Android Auto™
  • More expensive than some rivals

Mileage (EPA estimate)

23 city, 31 highway, 26 combined

Pricing for current inventory

From $25,998*

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The 2021 BMW X1 packs a lot of performance into a small package

Subcompact SUVs are gaining quickly in popularity thanks to their small footprint, which makes them more maneuverable and economical. The X1 is the smallest SUV in BMW's lineup, but don't think that you'll have to struggle to get people and their cargo to fit because it's surprisingly spacious inside.

For 2021, the X1 had only minor changes. Satellite radio has been made standard, fog lights have been removed from the Convenience and Premium packages, and the sport seats are now only found on models with the M Sport package.

The 2021 BMW X1 distinguishes itself from other subcompact luxury SUVs with its large cargo capacity, potent engine, and sporty handling. The downside is that handling results in a rather stiff ride quality that can be taxing on a bumpy road. Rivals such as the Mercedes-Benz GLB, Audi Q3, and Volvo XC40 are more comfortable in this regard, so we suggest a thorough test drive to see if the BMW's suspension agrees with you or not.

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 2021 BMW X1?

  • Enhanced infotainment system with larger touchscreen and updated software
  • Introduction of advanced safety features including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist
  • New engine option available for improved fuel efficiency
  • Standard alloy wheels replaced with premium options on higher trims
  • Removal of base model's manual transmission option

2021 BMW X1 trims

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

SDrive28i:

  • 228-hp, 258-lb-ft of torque 2.0L
  • Parking Sensors
  • Smart Key
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Memory Seats
  • Power Seats
  • Leatherette Seats
  • Rear View Camera
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • View our BMW X1 SDrive28i inventory

XDrive28i:

BMW X1 photos

What We Like

Powerful engine: The BMW X1 gains an advantage over many of its rivals with its potent 228-horsepower turbocharged engine. It allows this small SUV to sprint to 60 mph in only 6.4 seconds, making it one of the quickest in this class. The eight-speed transmission helps matters with quick and smooth shifts, as does the traction that comes with all-wheel drive.

Sharp handling: The X1's compact footprint reminds us of older BMWs that were more engaging and fun to drive. In many ways, it behaves more like a sporty hatchback than an SUV. The steering is responsive and accurate while the brakes are confidence-inspiring, adding to the agility and traction supplied by the all-wheel-drive system. It's more entertaining than most other small SUVs.

Passenger and cargo space: BMW made the most of all available interior space, making the X1 far more accommodating than its small exterior suggests. There's plenty of room in the rear seats for adults, and those seats slide and recline. Behind those seats, you can fit as much as 27.1 cubic feet of cargo, which is larger than its primary competition.

What Needs Improvement

Firm ride quality: Sporty handling typically results in a firmer ride quality and the BMW X1 definitely sacrifices some comfort in the name of cornering abilities. The stiffer tuning for the suspension to reduce body roll is one of the main culprits, as are the run-flat tires that lack the compliance of conventional rubber.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

4.5 out of 5

11 customer reviews
The 2021 BMW X1 offers excellent ride quality, precise handling, and a user-friendly design, with notable technology and spacious cargo areas praised. Some reviewers noted higher maintenance costs and limited interior space for taller passengers. Reliability concerns surfaced occasionally, including weather handling issues and dashboard malfunctions.

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

SDrive28i 4D Sport Utility 2WD

Standard Features

  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Air Conditioning
  • Power Mirrors
  • Memory Seat(s)
  • Rear View Camera
  • Leatherette Seats
  • Traction Control
  • Parking Sensors
  • Power Locks
  • Cruise Control
  • Rear Defroster
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • ABS Brakes
  • Side Airbags
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Run Flat Tires
  • Alloy Wheels
  • Power Hatch/Deck Lid
  • Turbo Charged Engine
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Navigation System
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Bluetooth Technology

Optional Features

  • Panoramic Sunroof
  • Head Up Display
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • Automated Parking
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Leatherette Seats
  • Smart Key
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Parking Sensors
  • Leather Seats
  • Alloy Wheels
  • Full Roof Rack
  • Tow Hitch
  • Running Boards
  • Power Hatch/Deck Lid
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Harman Kardon Sound

Drive Wheels

Front Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

2.0L

Horsepower

228

Torque (ft-lbs)

258

Engine type

Turbo Gas

Fuel capacity

16.1

Wheelbase

105.1"

Overall length

175.5"

Width

71.7"

Height

62.9"

Leg room

F 40.4"/R 37"

Head room

F 41.9"/R 39.4"

Front tires

P225/50VR18

Rear tires

P225/50VR18

Seating capacity

5

Transmission

Automatic

2021 BMW X1 FAQ

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* Price excludes taxes, title, registration, and fees. Applicable transfer fees are due in advance of vehicle delivery and are separate from sales transactions.

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