With its arresting aesthetics and a blend of functionality and style that’s hard to match, the BMW X1 sDrive 18d exceeded expectations during our recent test drive.
Taking the wheel of the BMW X1 18d sDrive during our recent week-long test drive, the vibrant German SUV began weaving its magic. More than a car, it became a trusted companion, always ready to tackle daily duties with eager enthusiasm. Whether on the school run or running errands, the X1’s versatility shone through, seamlessly transitioning between family-friendly people carrier and stylish, attention-grabber that turned every commute into a mini-adventure.
Yet, the X1’s appeal extended far beyond my personal experience. During a visit to a friend’s house, an avid supporter of a competing brand, I witnessed the car’s ability to win over even the most brand-loyal hearts. He has always been a staunch advocate of his preferred brand, but couldn’t resist the allure of the X1. As he closely examined it, he acknowledged that this BMW was indeed something special. He even admitted that if the right deal came along, he’d consider switching from his brand to BMW X1 identical to the one we were testing at the time.
MODERN CABIN PRACTICALITY
The BMW X1’s appeal doesn’t stop at its chiselled exterior. Step inside the cabin, and you’re welcomed by a modern and spacious interior that has undergone a significant transformation from the previous generation X1. The traditional dashboard layout has been replaced by a large curved dual display unit, housing a 10.25” digital instrument cluster and a 10.70” touchscreen infotainment system. This interior is a testament to the BMW X1’s ability to adapt to the demands of modern life, providing a seamless fusion of technology and style.
However, the cabin was more than just stylish; it proved highly practical.
The new floating centre console offered additional storage space for front occupants, creating a functional and comfortable environment. The front and rear seats were exceedingly comfortable, and the expanded cabin dimensions created a more spacious and inviting atmosphere. Luggage capacity has also been extended to 540 litres, making the X1 an excellent choice for daily use.
ENHANCED DRIVING EXPERIENCE
Powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine, the BMW X1 delivered an impressive 110 kW and 300 Nm, providing a noticeable boost in torque. The 18d exhibited remarkable ease when navigating the road, whether accelerating from a standstill or overtaking. Surprisingly, the engine remained pleasantly quiet, challenging the notion that diesel engines are noisy. Efficiency was another strong point, with BMW claiming a fuel consumption of just 5.0-l/100 km, making it a pocket-friendly choice.
On the road, the BMW X1 demonstrated significant improvements over its predecessor. The ride quality was forgiving on local roads, and the excellent cabin insulation created a serene atmosphere on the highways. Due to the increased track width, the steering was more communicative than I had experienced in previous X1 models.
LAST WORD
Our week with the BMW X1 sDrive18d was genuinely exceptional. The car effortlessly transformed the daily grind into memorable drives. Its frugal fuel consumption offered cost savings that set it apart from its competitors, making it a wise choice for those looking for a stylish, practical, and economical vehicle. If you’re in the market for a car that combines fuel efficiency with luxury, the BMW X1 sDrive18d is well worth considering.
| BMW X1 18D SDRIVE | ENGINE | POWER (kW @ r/min) | TORQUE (Nm @ r/min) | TOP SPEED (km/h) | 0-100 KM/H (seconds) | FUEL (l/100 km) | PRICE |
| BMW X1 sDrive18i M Sport | In-line 3-cyl; 1,499 cc turbo | 115 @ 4,900-6,500 | 230 @ 1,500-4,600 | 215 | 9.0 | 6.5 | R828,045 |
| Audi Q3 40TFSI quattro S line | In-line 4-cyl; 1,984 cc turbo | 132 @ 3,900-6,000 | 320 @ 1,400-3,940 | 220 | 7.8 | 8.2 | R812,500 |
| Volvo XC40 B4 Ultimate Dark | In-line 4-cyl; 1,969 cc turbo | 145 @ 5,000 | 300 @ 1,700-4,000 | 180 | 8.4 | 7.3 | R817,000 |
| Alfa Romeo Tonale 1.5T Hybrid Speciale | In-line 4-cyl; 1,469 cc turbo + electric | 118 @ 5,750 | 240 @ 1,500 | 210 | 8.8 | 5.7 | R839,900 |
Report by BRYAN KAYAVHU | Images © SAYA MATHE
