2013/2014 BMW X1 xDrive28i Review and Road Test

[@BoloBouncer]

Recently purchased one with only 43,000 miles on it and one owner. Couldn't be happier with the power and handling. Thanks for the review.

[@rishabgaur7588]

May I ask where you found it on?

[@RugRatCoupe]

By FAR the Most detailed, best review & road test of a BMW X1 I have seen, and I believe I've seen most of them all. Keep up the good work!

[@KAMU13]

We recently bought a 2014 BMW X1 xdrive 28i with 5K miles, fully loaded (ultimate + cold weather + lighting packages and Harmon Kardon sound + pedal shifters + BMW apps) for $33.5K what was $44.5 brand new - we saved $11K. I think X1 is the best compromise of power, gas mileage, space, speed and comforts, taken together. The drive is beautiful and smooth. We are extremely happy with the purchase. We test drove Q3, Q5, X3, Forester (cabin noise above 70mph), Outback, GLK 250, RDX, Lexus, Volvo V60, CX-5 (poor rear view angles and cabin noise). The closest match to X1 xdrive 28i is Audi Q3 (Prestige). Comparison between Audi Q3 (left) and BMW X1 xdrive 28i (right) as follows: (a) 200hp & 206lb.ft vs. 240hp & 260lb.ft; (b) 20/28 mpg vs. 23/33 mpg; (c) 6.6" vs. 7.0" ground clearance; (d) $43,000 vs. $41,000 (similar specs) (e) 1yr/5000mi vs. 4yr/50,000 miles coverage; (f) 0-60 in 8.2s vs. 6.2s; (g) Cargo space: 19.2cu.ft./ 48cu.ft (seats folded) vs. 26cu.ft/ 56cu.ft (seats folded). We were initially against the BMW brand, because we are Audi fans. But the X1 completely changed our notion after driving it. Yes, there could have been few better quality added here and there, but overall, this is a great car. Don't be fooled by its looks. I really loved the Q5 TDI but the price even for used cars are $50K for premium plus trim.

[@rushking2007]

where did you buy the car, it is a great deal.

[@KAMU13]

Walter Hu Passport Mini of Alexandria, VA. They usually don't get/sell BMWs. we just happened to see the ad within 2h they posted, and made the deal. We were lucky! We had to wait for 3-4 days for the car to be cleaned and freshened up. :)

[@markchambers8641]

KK13 Do you still own this bmw?

[@bikeninja956]

yes, spent 3 years researching vehicles, all brands makes and models, X1's are literally the best do it all vehicle, good looks, good power & torque, descent fuel economy, nicely appointed interiors.. the perfect EDD IMO. I love mine like a child.

[@marivilleable]

Kindly would you tell me if this the x1 has a hud? Or which x1 model of which year does the hud start? Thank you

[@elvisxiyu]

As X1 Xdrive28i owner I completely agree with everything you presented in the video. In fact, I find your review the most technically correct among all the X1 reviews available on KZbin. This review also accurately describes how this car actually drives and feels on the road. I am subscribing to this channel! good job!

[@johnd1674]

i've had my x1 2.8S for 16k miles. it's a 2014 and i love it. if i were to buy again i would put the M package on it. now it has the sport package which is mostly cosmetic. but it has 18 in tires and backup camera and sport seats. i recommend the sport seats for sure. i got red interior on mineral gray. performs very well and i would buy another in a heart beat. BMW build quality is solid throughout. it handles well although as a crossover the height is a disadvantage at high speed cornering top end. but great lane feel, does 100mph+ no problem and accelerates at all speeds very well. some turbo lag but not much and the torque is there early and late, like he says. i have no complaints except the side view mirrors are poor visibility. overall visibility is really great with this car. not much room in backseat but that's why you choose an X1 and not an X3/5. still best kept secret on the road.

[@johnd1674]

i recently found out without spoiling the warranty you can get a Dinan software upgrade on this vehicle which remaps the engine timing to allow 311 HP and, wait for it… 328Lb Torque! that is above the 6 cyl levels and you get the 8 speed transmission with the V4. So if you are smart about buying an X1- get the 4 cyl and do the software upgrade for more power. costs about $1,700 with installation. but the upgrade from 4 to 6 cyl is more like $5k. And you won't get the 8 speed on the 6 cyl. Cheers!

[@markchambers8641]

John D Do you still have this vehicle, if so have you had any big issues? Thinking about buying my mother a used one.

[@bonanincube4478]

I just bought a X1 recently and drives very well ; comfortable and I am enjoying it. Good value for money 💰.

[@dansivertson]

Outstanding review Alex. Thanks! I've got an X1 now and I love it!

[@patotero5497]

I have the 2014 and he’s right it rides like its on rails! Awesome handling!

[@SUPbraddah]

After 2 years how has it been? Looking to get a used one.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I have a strong love for the wagon form factor, but yes I would probably get the X1 over the 3 series wagon. Mostly because the X1 is such a great deal.

[@56nomad56]

Thanks for the review. Just brought a black on black X1 sDrive28i home this afternoon. So far love it!

[@glhf5922]

you are probably the only reviewer that I find on youtube that is really good at reviewing cars in details. Keep it up. #Sent from Putin in Moscow#

[@martingeorgiev9687]

Great review ! Very professional and also fun to watch ! Thanks man ! I just bought a 2015 X1 Sport and I love it even though it is a bit small compared to my old 2009 Rav4 Sport V6

[@garrettwells7522]

Would you prefer this to the 3 series wagon? I am trying to pick between the two, but both have such a large list of upsides.

[@Bulgdoom]

I've watched a lot of car reviews, few are this well made. Lots of practical information, other reviewers don't tell u anything usefull.

[@alessandrosisto8216]

Thank you Alex. A great clear and detailed review. I have not seen one like this on the X1 on the whole web. Congratulations!

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

The JX drives like a large FWD luxury minivan, the X1 drives like a tall RWD hatchback. The X1 is more about driving dynamics and the JX is about 7 seats.

[@salvatorelipari227]

Very in depth and informative. I'm am looking for an all-wheel drive car and this one has really sparked my interest.

[@stevenhatchel4042]

Picked up a '15 sDrive28i, CPO w/ 26K miles, with Tech, Lighting, heated seats, xLine, etc. for $20K for my daughter. While not a great value when new, as a CPO at half the cost it is a lot quicker and more fun to drive than a RAV4 or CR-V, but you give up some interior and cargo space. It drives like a slightly taller E9X...because it is (chassis at least). I think it's actually more responsive to drive than my 435i coupe.

[@belowzero1446]

I just discovered your reviews. They are very well done! Thanks!

[@tonynikon]

Impressive review. I am looking for a BMW X1 and this guide really impressed me about the radio and media features. I personally preffer stiff steering wheel over a soft one and I preffer fuel economy over all wheel drive. Now, which color I should choose...?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Well, that's just about all you have left. Acura and Lexus are at the top of the reliability charts followed by Cadillac and Lincoln with the rest at the bottom. Porsche routinely lands high in the rankings but there is a great deal of debate about how those numbers are tabulated. If you love the drive, forget about reliability. On the upside the European dealers typically excel at customer service.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Thanks for catching that! Not sure how the mis-typed description of the thumbnail description snuck in there!

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

The EX is more of an X3, GLK, XC60 competitor. It's a decent amount bigger.

[@stetsonlewis3095]

1:08 if only he could see them now

[@damilolaakanni]

😁😄😂🤣

[@buildmorefarms1007]

Why would anyone buy a loaded Juke Nismo at 30k when this BMW is 31k?

[@buildmorefarms1007]

Because they want something that will be reliable!

[@oriondevil79]

@@buildmorefarms1007 Buildmorefarms the type of guy to get the ugliest chick just because he knows noone really would even dream to touch it.

[@buildmorefarms1007]

@@oriondevil79 Haha, you mad bro?

[@paulzografos4530]

dont get the 35i, the 28i has a MUCH better transmission and actually feels faster up to about 100 mph, past that its 35i all day but... you cant exactly drive 100+ w/ the 28i in the US reguarly. I test drove both and the 28i is a far better engine. what a gem.

[@tooquic404]

+Paul Zografos They have the same transmission. The 2.8i is not faster than the 3.5i. The 2.8i has 240HP & 250LB-ft of torque and the 3.5i has 300HP & 300lb-ft. The 2.8 0-60 6.1 secs and the 3.5i 0-60 5.1 secs. So, you assessment is incorrect, plus I've had both on a dyno.

[@stevenhatchel4042]

The 35i has a 6-speed auto and the 28i has the ZF 8-speed, so not the same transmission. Also, the 2.0T is rated at 240HP/260TQ, not 250.

[@teamsalvation]

I have to say, when I was looking at a 3series I walked away when I saw the second cup holder - really, for over $30K I have this POS plastic adapter? Ended up with a G35. In the market for an X BMW and I cannot believe they still have this setup in the X1. Yes, it's the cheapest, but when a $10K car has better cup holders .... it's laughable, really!? Love the reviews, thanks for taking the time to go over everything in such great detail!

[@kevinrostant4671]

Actually interested in purchasing one of these 2014 model what’s your take on it I’m from Trinidad and Tobago drove pretty smooth ride

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

We sure will, it's on our list!

[@Jim007baker]

i have a 28i xdrive great car fun and fast i tried the m package but i think they didn't use shock absorbers as is was uncomfortably stiff for my old bones

[@Appyogametech435]

Very nice review. I like the details you covered. Well done!

[@KAMU13]

Why compare X1 with Q5 or GLK? I think it should be compared with Q3 and GLA, instead. X3 is in the same paradigm of Q5, GLK, CX-5, Forester etc.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Well primarily because at the time the Q3 and GLA did not exist. At this time I might still even compare the X1 to the Q5 and GLK however because of the X1's RWD platform. The X1 is kind of an oddity in that it is the only RWD entry in this category, it is a little smaller than you might think as well. It is also far and away the best handling and most dynamic entry. You could also compare the X1 to the Volvo V60 because the X1 is sort of a tall wagon, the 3-Series wagon, the Audi Allroad, etc.

[@KAMU13]

Alex on Autos I see. Thanks, for your reply! I agree, it's kind of a half step-down from Q5 and others, but not many models are in the same category excepting Q3 - 'compact luxury crossover' should we say? I drove both, X1 x28i and Q3, no comparison - X1 wins in every category compared to Q3, hands down. I think it'd be better to compare V60 with X1 35i, since the torque and power are somewhat similar.

[@FourJaysFour]

+Kausik I agree, it had a similar feel to the V60 (and even the S60 AWD). A solid, balanced, heavy car with responsive steering. I hadn't driven Volvo before & was impressed at how rock solid it was. The driver-assist nannies in the Volvo were intrusive IMO. The hydraulic steering on the X1 was more fun. Similar price points. The S60 is close in size though the trunk is nearly useless. V60 has more passenger/cargo space.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

We added it to our list!

[@NONAME-ib6nk]

Alex on Autos what

[@MarkMastrocinque]

Bought a 2013 off a lease. Great car and the driving experience is totally BMW. More comfortable and drives better than my ex-girlfriends 328xi.

[@CrooklynPilot]

Hi Alex, when will you release the infant car seat for the bmw x1? btw, I just purchase the bmw x1 and loving it!

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

It honestly may be a while. Since this review isn't terribly old, getting another X1 isn't high on my priority list. (It might be high on my *wish* list, but not high on the AOA reviews priority list.)

[@gooddayweddings215]

Good job with X1 never expected finding one like this

[@charles-bernardgagnon8244]

Cheers Alex for this great indepth review of the 2014 X1. I am currently driving a 2013 Edge Sport and looking to downsize for an better handling 4 wdrive crossover. I tried the new 2016 X1 and really enjoyed it but find it pretty more expensive for a second car. that why I am interested to buy a used 2014 x1. would you recommend to pay more and get the 2016 X1 instead?

[@AlternativeUses]

note that the video description says "013 BMW X1 xDrive38i Exterior-007". i posted a link to this video at the bmw x1 forum, i'm sure theyll appreciate it. thanks again

[@MrAntoniorey]

i recently subscribed to your channel. good stuff always. when will you do a review on the 2014 GTI?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

In the USA, yes. It's $1,000 less than a 128i.

[@ZachGrabill]

What a great review. Very well done. Adding you guys to my subscription list.

[@batalpolo4706]

Thanks for responding , what's your opinion on the new 2014 BMW 428I ? have you had a chance to review it ?

[@Gypsymommarose347]

When he opened the back!🤣😂

[@acchaladka]

Interesting that the back seat / cargo is not as roomy-flexible as many hatches. I see you do playlists and would like to see hot hatches and winter-drivers as the next two.

[@nature10879]

F10 M5 manual review..pliz if you can get your hands on it. Its a dying breed and we would love to hear your opinions,,,nice review

[@bestclarkesspot]

Do you recommend buying a used one with 100,000 miles?

[@rodge911]

Hey Alex, X1 vs 328 wagon? Back seat room, cargo room comparison? Driving comparison?

[@batalpolo4706]

Hi Alex , your car reviews are the best on you tube period , I just watched the 2013 x1 review , so here is my question what you guys do with the car after you're done testing them ,I am assuming you give back to the dealership , but would a car like that be a good buy at a discounted price ??

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

It really depends. The cars I typically review are provided by the manufacturer and not a dealer so if the car was a production car then it will usually be sent to a dealer auction. If it is a pre-production car (maybe about 15% of the cars I drive are in this category) then the manufacturer typically uses them for various functions and then recycles the car as it may or may not be 100% up to production specifications.

[@btrealestate]

Really like your reviews!!!

[@coleshyppolite6989]

Very excellent review! Very detailed 👍🏽

[@vcader]

Fantastic review - big bimmer fan, trying to convince my sister-in-law into a (no brainer) CPO X1 for around $25k fully loaded, over some disposable (cheese box) Mazda CX3/5 or even worse, Jeep Renegade.

[@milesfranklin5146]

BMW GLK? I think u meant Mercedes Benz

[@devoracledba]

Is there major difference in steering on new X1 when compared to old x1 ?.. i read in many reviews old x1 steering is bit hard at parking speeds .. someone pls comment about this if they drove both old and new model x1's

[@KaoSaeteurn]

Alex, Can you do a full review of the 2014 Chevy SS when it is out?

[@maccpw1]

Top review well done

[@jonanderson738]

Alex, I need advice from a auto guru like yourself. I own a 2019 Honda Insight that's pushing 70k in mileage. It's worth 19k with Carvana, but I think I could sell it privately for 22k or 23k. I have the title, so I pocket it all. I have a good friend about to get a new Macan and he owns a 2015 BMW X1 xDrive35i with around 60k some in mileage. It's been in a garage and has been maintained. He said Carvana offered 15k for it. Would you sell the Insight and get that BMW for 15k and then pocket the savings? I'm thinking it's a solid deal but I know some Beamers mess up and can be very costly. Any advice or insights about BMW would be helpful.

[@BrittleyKdall]

why the hell you in the trunk hahahah great review though. favorite account by far

[@venom5809]

Nice review as usual. At $50K plus, why not get a fully loaded Infiniti JX?

[@ahmadhakimi9088]

What a great review.

[@TremayneDouglas]

Best X1 Msport ever!

[@AlternativeUses]

Very good review!! I find that youre on point w/ most of my observations - I have an x1 35i. To address why someone would pay so much for a compact wagon, the answer for me at least is that you get near 3-series handling w/ one of the best engines on sale (edmunds tested a 35i 0-60 @5.1 seconds). I was originally looking at a 328xi but it came out to ~$5k more with equal equipment (with the 2.0T instead of the 3.0T) and i liked the X1 in person. They also gave me a great deal as Alex says.

[@Rian420]

I would say the Infiniti ex is pretty similar no?

[@kathyy4948]

What is the seating like, do you feel like you are in a station wagon or a SUV. Do you feel like you are sitting higher than in a sedan?

[@FourJaysFour]

+Kathy Y It's a little tough to compare the feel of this vehicle to other x-overs because the RWD is not that common in SUVs. Other than BMW/Mercedes, usually RWD is used in sports cars (Porsche, Camaro, Mustang, Viper, Challenger, BRZ). This BMW's RWD + the weight distribution made it a lot of fun to drive!! Go try one. The AWD feature is worth it IMO. It kept the back end stable (no fish-tailing). Wide tires helped it feel stable too. 'Connected to the road' as they say. At 2:03 in the video he talks about weight distribution. The engine is mounted BEHIND the front axle, laterally in the compartment. In addition to feeling balanced, this design lets the car split the work between front+back end. Front wheels concentrate on steering/braking while the back end is pushing. So, the X1 may look like a wagon or small SUV, but it feels like a fun little car! Height-wise, (IMO) it felt similar to my Subaru Impreza Sport Limited. I had good road vision but did not feel as if I was on stilts. It seemed lower than the Crosstrek or Outback. I think ground clearance is around 7 inches. Hope this helps.

[@NovaNetworkProductions]

I found one for 11k at 78k mileage , thinking about it

[@kwfown]

Infiniti ex37/qx50, comparable SUV?

[@JN-mc1jk]

Is it all wheel drive?

[@theladyshoes]

I love my X1. In fact, it's painful to get a loaner 3 series because they're so terrible by comparison. My model came in right at $36k. The only real complaints I have are cargo, seat comfort and the outdated BMW interior but I can overlook those because the performance is superb.

[@Eklipse758]

Do you still own it, and what are your thoughts on the car after owning it for some time?

[@MybeautifulandamazingPrincess]

Cargo? You think the cargo space is bad? Tf

[@marivilleable]

Hello. Does this come with a hud?

[@beyondbt]

Nice video!

[@nature10879]

Great..I cant wait

[@BMWUSA1997]

Ok this guys wrong about it being 53k no actually it's 49k which is a big difference ... Talking about the 35i with everything on it

[@clclclclcl90]

Linkin Park burn it down!! Nice, great music, great review btw

[@CiaLosAngeles90210]

what colour is that?

[@danlins1407]

is there a 3rd row?

[@tonys9413]

Dan Lins No

[@ATLOffroad]

The X1 looks a lot like a Kia Rondo.

[@BoloBouncer]

If the X1 had a baby it would definitely be the Rondo.

[@enayatsharif4311]

you talked for 22 minutes and you never mentioned what I waned to know: How good is the sound system?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

The base system is average, the top end system is fantastic.

[@MetalsForBrunch]

for 36k it in this current model in this video I rather go for a top of the line honda accord ex v6 or base price g37.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

No worries, the automotive press makes plenty of mistakes!

[@acchaladka]

Ps. Subscribed. Another excellent review.

[@leonchen89]

There goes the timing chains. Engine blown.

[@skorpoolr]

So replace it before it happens? There’s warning signs most of the time, and if you ignore them you get the consequences of ignoring mechanical issues. Also You can say this about literally any engine with timing chains, especially since so many OHC engines have had issues with tension.

[@MetalsForBrunch]

the bmw 3 series sedan is still a better choice compared to x1.

[@elijahrumatchik3530]

Instead of Mercedes he said BMW GLK lol😂😂😂

[@slickbibi1]

oh ok sorry for disrespecting you

[@weirdshibainu]

53k...whoa

[@nishant345]

Which of the premium brands is comparatively reliable and easy on the pocket? Audi, BMW, Jaguar, Benz or any other? Please don't say Lexus because I wanna drive! Thanks! :)

[@dwaynewilliams9117]

NICKI MINAJ STANS LEMME HEAR YALL

[@shiyangli3577]

45k

[@vincentmcnabb939]

Get out of here! I test drove the X1 and the Mini Countryman Cooper S. The Countryman felt bigger, more comfortable and oozes class and style. Performance may be better in the X1, but the Countryman 4x Sport competes well and wins in every other way.

[@MybeautifulandamazingPrincess]

Stfu

[@hamidkarimi5576]

I have b m w x1 2015 I am not happy is not good car you spnid mony for this car I don't tinks is good car I am not happy

[@slickbibi1]

dude youre talking rubbish...this is the cheapest bmw???

[@MrEngineerNasa]

Have been driving one of this, i can say BMW sucks, alfaromeo is like one million times better to drive, BMW is shit!!! never buy fucking stupid BMW