• 2013 BMW X1

• Used BMW X1
• Repairs BMW X1

Scorecard

Overall:	2013 BMW X1 U.S. News Best Cars 8.2
Critics' Rating:	8.5
Performance:	8.0
Interior:	7.5
Safety:	N/A
Reliability:

How we calculate scores

Research analyzed for this review

Awards

• 2013 Best Luxury Compact SUV for the Money

Notable for 2013

• All-new model

Pros & Cons

• Sharp handling
• Smooth eight-speed automatic transmission
• High-quality interior

• Limited cargo and interior storage space

The 2013 BMW X1 ranks 6 out of 10 Luxury Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 5 published reviews and test drives of the BMW X1, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

While test drivers say the all-new 2013 BMW X1 may not have enough cargo space for everyone, they think its precise steering and high-quality interior won’t disappoint.

The base 2013 BMW X1 has a standard with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while a six-cylinder engine is optional. Of the two powertrains, test drivers prefer the base engine, mainly because its smooth eight-speed automatic transmission outshines the six-speed automatic that comes with the six-cylinder engine. No matter which powertrain they tested, test drivers admired the BMW X1’s agility and responsive brakes. According to the EPA, the X1 averages up to 24/34 mpg city/highway, which earn the X1 some of the highest fuel economy ratings in its class, but it’s important to remember that the X1 isn’t as large as its competitors.

The 2013 BMW X1 is the 2013 Best Luxury Compact SUV for the Money because it has the best combination of ownership costs and positive reviews in its class.

As a small crossover, the BMW X1 doesn’t have as much cargo space as larger competitors, but reviewers say it can comfortably seat four adults, though there are seatbelts for five. The automotive press agrees that the X1’s cabin is made with high-quality materials, and its standard features, which include Bluetooth, a USB port and HD Radio, are typical for the class. Amenities like power-adjustable and heated front seats, navigation, which is paired with the iDrive infotainment system, and satellite radio are optional.

• "Is there really room for a crossover like the X1 in America? A seemingly never-ending penchant for anything that sits higher than a sedan would indicate yes. Throw in a price point that opens the door for a larger chunk of the buying public compared to the 3 Series and the X1 should do just fine, even if it's a little small for a crossover." -- Edmunds
• "At the end of the day, we still have warm and good feelings toward the X1. But our thrill and excitement over this xDrive35i trim with all of its potential finished the day a bit of an over-puffed question mark. Either chassis (sDrive or xDrive) of the 28i trim with the eight-speed and sport steering wheel would be a better choice and cost pleasantly less." -- Autoblog 

Other Cars to Consider

Although the Acura RDX costs several thousand dollars more than the BMW X1, the RDX’s higher price tag comes with more cargo space than what the X1 offers. The RDX and X1 have similar lists of standard interior tech, but the X1 has a higher performance score than the RDX and higher fuel economy ratings. Although the X1 is more performance-oriented than the RDX, the RDX is better if you want more cargo room, good passenger space and need optional all-wheel drive.

If you want more interior space than what the X1 has to offer, consider the Volvo XC60. Reviewers say that this crossover has comfortable rear seats, as well as significantly more cargo space than the X1. The XC60’s list of interior tech features is comparable to the X1’s, and it’s also available with all-wheel drive.

Compare the X1, RDX and XC60 »

Details: 2013 BMW X1

The 2013 BMW X1 comes in sDrive28i, xDrive28i and xDrive35i models. The rear-wheel drive base model has a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the highest trim has a six-cylinder engine. Models with the base turbocharged four-cylinder engine have either rear- or all-wheel drive, while six-cylinder variants are AWD only. The X1’s cabin seats five, and its standard tech features, like Bluetooth, HD Radio and a USB port, are typical of the class. Safety, performance, interior materials and technology packages are available.

See the full 2013 BMW X1 specs »