2025 BMW X1 Review: BMW’s Compact SUV Gets Better
The 2025 BMW X1 receives subtle but meaningful updates that strengthen its position in the competitive compact luxury SUV segment. With refreshed styling, modern technology, refined performance, and a more upscale cabin, it continues to combine everyday practicality with BMW’s signature driving character.
In this review, we’ll look at its performance, interior, technology, safety, and overall value to help you decide if it is the right choice.
Best Suited for
The 2025 BMW X1 is ideal for drivers who want luxury, practicality, and agile handling without the size of a larger SUV. Its compact dimensions make it suitable for city driving and tight parking spaces, while its spacious cabin and versatile cargo area work well for small families.
Available all-wheel drive adds confidence in different driving conditions, while its advanced infotainment and driver-assistance features appeal to tech-focused buyers. Overall, the X1 is best suited to those who want a premium SUV that remains practical for everyday use.
Fuel Consumption & Engine
The standard X1 xDrive28i uses a 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo inline-4 engine producing 241 horsepower, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. EPA estimates rate it at 24 mpg city and 33 mpg highway, or approximately 10.2 km/L city and 14.0 km/L highway.
The performance-focused X1 M35i increases output to 313 horsepower and achieves 0–60 mph in about 5.2 seconds. It is rated at approximately 23 mpg city and 31 mpg highway, equivalent to 9.8 km/L city and 13.2 km/L highway. Fuel economy is competitive with rivals such as the Audi Q3 and Mercedes-Benz GLA, although it is not class-leading.
Interior
The X1’s interior combines modern design, comfort, and technology. Standard perforated Veganza upholstery provides a premium feel, while optional Vernasca leather adds further luxury. Heated front seats are standard, with available upgrades such as massaging seats and lumbar support.
The cabin features BMW’s Curved Display, combining a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster with a 10.7-inch infotainment screen running BMW Operating System 9. Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant are also available. Practicality is another strength, with 25.7 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 57.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.
Exterior
The 2025 X1 has a sharper and more mature exterior design, featuring LED lighting, BMW’s kidney grille, sculpted body lines, and available 18- or 19-inch alloy wheels. Color choices include Alpine White, Jet Black, Portimao Blue Metallic, San Remo Green Metallic, and Utah Orange Metallic. Roof rails and available Shadowline exterior trim add both practicality and visual appeal.
Trim Levels
The X1 xDrive28i is the well-rounded option, offering 241 horsepower, all-wheel drive, advanced infotainment, wireless smartphone integration, Dynamic Cruise Control, and heated front seats.
The X1 M35i is aimed at enthusiasts. Its 313-hp engine comes with M Sport brakes, Adaptive M Suspension, an M Sport Differential, sport seats, an M steering wheel, and a more aggressive exterior design. It provides significantly more performance but comes at a higher price.
Overall Safety
Safety features include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Available upgrades include adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, lane-keeping assistance, and a 360-degree camera. The X1 also has a strong reputation for crash protection, making it a reassuring choice for families and safety-conscious buyers.
Writer’s Perspective
The 2025 BMW X1 feels like a confident and well-executed update rather than a revolutionary redesign. Its biggest strengths are its upscale interior, practical dimensions, technology, and balanced driving experience. The xDrive28i is smooth and responsive, while the M35i delivers considerably more excitement.
However, BMW’s reliance on touchscreen controls instead of physical climate controls can be frustrating, and the M35i’s higher price makes its value harder to justify against larger performance-oriented SUVs. Fuel economy is competitive but not exceptional.
Final Verdict
The 2025 BMW X1 is a strong choice for buyers seeking a premium compact SUV that balances comfort, practicality, technology, and driving enjoyment. Its refined cabin, sharp styling, solid safety features, and two distinct powertrain options give it broad appeal.
It may not dramatically outperform competitors such as the Audi Q3 or Mercedes-Benz GLA, but it remains one of the most well-rounded options in the segment. Would I recommend it? Absolutely—particularly for drivers upgrading from an older X1 or entering the BMW brand for the first time. Check out the BMW X1 stocklist and grab yours todayFind Parts Here