2023 BMW X1 review - has it perfected the boring bits that matter?

The all-new for 2023 BMW X1 isn't like other BMWs. It's not going to drift. It's not designed to thrill. It is, however, designed to be a perfect family companion - it's roomier inside than before, the boot is bigger and it's got way more tech, mostly nicked from the £80k iX SUV. But is it any good? Join me for an in-depth interior review and driving review to find out.
00:00 Why it's a real-world car
00:57 Price and trim levels explained (sort of)
01:22 It looks more like a proper SUV now
02:04 What engines can you get in it?
03:03 Interior tech and space
04:22 iDrive 8 is here, but this version has a flaw
05:23 Driver's display and head-up display
06:30 Are the rear seats big enough for adults?
08:21 How big is the boot space?
09:10 Bad joke
09:23 How does it drive?
13:23 Conclusion: is it really BMW's best SUV?
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[@TimRodieDrivesStuff]

⭐ If you didn't utterly hate this video and feel I've earned it, please subscribe so you don't miss any new car waffles!

[@colinrenfrew48]

Probably the best looking BMW on sale.

[@aye3678]

Finally, the X1 is no longer a hideous compact SUV. This new X1 looks great inside and out.

[@JoeAchilles1]

Haha great video buddy, love the mention 🤣 You will surprised to know I actually quite like it, decent looks and packaged really well. Not driven one though so can't comment on that, but good to hear your thoughts 👌

[@TimRodieDrivesStuff]

Haha, cheers mate! If they bring out a version with a welded back diff you'll be all over it 😅

[@michaeleaton5053]

I'm pleased to see the return of the Hard-on Kardon hifi. 😀

[@TimRodieDrivesStuff]

Given how many BMW videos I filmed yesterday there's a lot more hard-on hifi content to come 😅 I've stopped trying to get my brain to say it correctly

[@cp4512]

The new voice control is very clever and intuitive now and responds well to inputs like a Siri. I think that’s what BMW sees as being used more on the new system rather than just touching the screen.

[@laidbackice9714]

Would you say the active tourer or the x1 is a better option for comfortable driving in town

[@mistergee2k10]

3:41 Karman Hard on sound system ha ha love it

[@randyreynolds1045]

This is BMW s best SUV❤

[@chrisrobinson3771]

I order the same specs (but the US version). Did BMW give you any detail on how to keep the Frozen Grey Clean?

[@user-ju7dg8dg1f]

Hi Tim, I'm considering the ix1 m sport electric but have been offered the ix3 m sport for the same price, which would you go for? Steve

[@Seeyan86]

3:41 did you say "Karman Harden" sound system, or was it just my bad hearing? lol

[@kildli]

any chance bmw x3 will receive similar interior upgrade soon?

[@talkandplay]

Hoping the plugin x1 has a more comfortable drive as i use mostly country roads. No demo plugin x1 till the new year.

[@TimRodieDrivesStuff]

I don’t want to sound like a Debbie downer but hybrids usually have worse rides in my experience…

[@freddieclark2265]

The 1.5 isnt the sensible one, 2.0 23i is the best choice by a mile, it replaces the old 20i and there will be a m35i version coming too, this has the shove of a hot hatch in a family SUV, it lives up to what bmw is about while suiting the target audience.

[@m2hisham]

Thanks for the review - what do you think is better? Kia Sportage GT Line S or BMW X1 M Sports? Would love to know your point of view.

[@TimRodieDrivesStuff]

I think I actually prefer the Kia… just. Slightly bigger boot, and I think it marginally feels posher inside (in places).

[@m2hisham]

@@TimRodieDrivesStuff do you think Kia would hold its value in the second hand market after three years like BMW?

[@RideOnTime1]

Fantastic looking car inside and out 😊

[@da_great_mogul]

Just subscribed, you're good! Good to know you feel the 20i (3cyl, 1.5L) is the way to go. My Mum needs a car I can use as well, what else from the BM range would you suggest?

[@TimRodieDrivesStuff]

Thank you! Can't you use the X1 as well?

[@da_great_mogul]

@@TimRodieDrivesStuff yes, I'll have to but do you think the 20i 1.5L 3 cylinder will be powerful enough?

[@johnguidetti5839]

@@da_great_mogulNo underpowered. Go for the 2.0L 23i

[@Pipsicle330]

What height are you for rear seat context? Have a current 2AT which I love. Seems like the new AT and this are virtually identical. Hard to choose between them.

[@DontPanicDear]

The one time he didn’t tell everyone his height, along you come 😂 6’3”

[@TimRodieDrivesStuff]

I’m 6’3” - I usually mention it in every video but then people started complaining that I said it all the time haha. Also, I nearly got into a 2 Series Active Tourer by mistake that was parked next to this X1 😂

[@talkandplay]

@@TimRodieDrivesStuff I presume you sit a little higher in the X1 than the AT 2?

[@Adamlllllllllllljjjljljjjjj]

Wow, from watching carwow reviews about how cars behave when driving, I usually have low expectations for all other channels. However, you were dead honest, you weren’t describing the ride as ‘nice’ or ‘does the job’ like most car enthusiasts do, instead you said it doesn’t feel like a proper bmw and is firmer over bumps than an XC40. That’s awesome that you’ve said that. I was curious whether the X1 would feel like a bmw and it sounds like it doesn’t. Thanks for this🙌

[@ravinm]

Do you think a move from X1 to 3 series would be better ? I'm looking to change my x1

[@Adamlllllllllllljjjljljjjjj]

@@ravinm The 3 series is definitely better to drive. It feels like a more executive car and your sat lower. It also handles better and has a better gearbox. Plus with the new facelift, your getting basically all the same tech

[@ravinm]

@@Adamlllllllllllljjjljljjjjj thanks a lot basically the car is decent but didn't feel like i was driving a bmw let alone a luxury car

[@Adamlllllllllllljjjljljjjjj]

@@ravinm I completely agree with you. The X1 isn’t a proper bmw platform, it’s shared with Mini, whereas the 3 series chassis is so much better underneath the skin. This isn’t saying the X1 isn’t a nice car, as it is for most people, just not for car enthusiasts

[@h3llshadow]

Hey. What color is this? Is it the Metallic Space or the Storm Bay? Additionally, could you please tell me if this has HIll Descent Control? Previously, this was standard with xdrive, but now, I can't see the button in your vid.

[@TimRodieDrivesStuff]

Not sure on the HDC, sorry! The colour is Frozen Pure Grey.

[@h3llshadow]

@@TimRodieDrivesStuff Thanks for the reply! Didn't consider that one :D.

How tall are you? I'm 194cm and have only been able to test the X1 without panoramic sunroof, which had enough space but uncertain how I'll fit in one with it.

[@TimRodieDrivesStuff]

Hey, I’m 190.5cm tall! The 0.5 is important 😂

[@prisol]

tim, great video, how would you compare the suspension of this x1 and 3 series you drove on the same day?

[@johnguidetti5839]

A 3 series would always ride better than an X1 a more sophisticated RWD platform.

[@smwatson1512]

Feels like there's now lots of overlap between the X1 and X3. No new X3 until 2024?

[@johnguidetti5839]

X3 is a whole different platform, market and price segment of course there will be

[@mariusica646]

great review

[@TimRodieDrivesStuff]

Great comment!

[@paintey]

Schlampfütze! Is what you were looking for when stepping into that muddy puddle. Other than that, great and thorough review. Greetings from Munich.

[@TimRodieDrivesStuff]

Thanks Andreas! Order me a Maß and a Schweinshaxe and I'll be right there

[@PetrolheadTours]

Looking forward to the ix1 review… soon?

[@TimRodieDrivesStuff]

Hopefully in the next few days if I get time to edit it!

[@PetrolheadTours]

@@TimRodieDrivesStuff Joe said you did well to upload this one so quickly - high praise indeed 😀. I like your presenting style, have subscribed 👍

[@peterleighton279]

Nice looking SUV but why oh why are manufacturers insisting on pushing this rubbish touchscreen tech on us? No one I know wants this and everyone wants to retain buttons for ease of use and familiarity.

[@blackranger3d]

Lord please say it again for the people in the back. I’m quite disappointed that they’ve removed the idrive knob.

[@chrisbdsirhc]

Hear! Hear! They do it because software is cheaper for them than hardware. Their philosophy - I can program as many buttons and sliders as I like on a screen and don’t need any tooling or testing. Their justification - use voice control. Please bring back beautifully designed ergonomic physical dashboards and centre consoles BMW.

[@albertlira7443]

That's a really good looking design. Agreed, the previous was trying too hard in design to be a hatchback. Matschige Pfütze is what you are!

[@Rosendnd]

and this way previous one have great handling, I have X1 2018 20i with stage 1 240BHP - is like bigger hot hatch with plenty space and fun to drive, but also like new model.

[@TheHawkeyes]

What is a "pram" ?

[@TimRodieDrivesStuff]

A perambulator, sorry.

[@TheHawkeyes]

@@TimRodieDrivesStuff Heh, I still had to look that up. A baby carriage or stroller! I learned another Britishisms. Cheers on the channel content!

[@Joe-eg7ml]

What's that color?

[@TimRodieDrivesStuff]

Frozen Pure Grey, I think. £2,100 extra!

[@Joe-eg7ml]

@@TimRodieDrivesStuff u think it's a nice color? We have always got Alpine white but want to go a different route.

[@Birmingham_racing]

I think the second gen was ok but hated the first gen

[@kidfreejones]

Great review but confused why you parked it in the mud and a puddle and why your finger keeps appearing. We could be brothers, we look the same.

[@TimRodieDrivesStuff]

On these events I don't have loads of time to find a super scenic place to film - and for me finding a quiet place where I won't be interrupted is my priority, so sorry about the puddle! My fingers appear when I'm adjusting the exposure on my camera's ND filter. Good to hear from a fellow handsome man 😂

[@avatr7109]

oh no the dashboard...

[@robertmacintyre8065]

Why did you pick a lay-by with a big puddle, Tim?

[@TimRodieDrivesStuff]

It's my thing!

[@robertmacintyre8065]

@@TimRodieDrivesStuff Fair enough. 😉👍. Your videos are great btw Tim. More power to your elbow! 👏

[@TimRodieDrivesStuff]

@@robertmacintyre8065 Haha thanks Robert! When I'm out filming on my own on a one-day event like this I just need to find somewhere with a quiet spot to film… and they're usually muddy laybys. Nothing dodgy, I swear…

[@robertmacintyre8065]

@@TimRodieDrivesStuff Hi Tim. Apologies, wasn't making innuendos about what your elbow would be doing in a lay-by! 😂. It's a Scottish turn of phrase to say all the best/keep up the good work. 👍 On a semi serious note have you done any reviews on the standard (non electric versions) of the Volvo XC40? Saw your video on the electric version. Do you reckon most of it will carry over to the petrol/diesel models (apart from engine related & performance/economy stuff)?

[@slen6293]

Was looking at this but ended up going for a well specced Skoda Kodiaq sportline. Cheaper, bigger and probably prefer the interior on the kodiaq! And I’m a BMW fan boy!

[@TimRodieDrivesStuff]

I love a Kodiaq!

[@stevem2323]

Over this? Come on, Skoda?

[@slen6293]

@@stevem2323 genuinely, obviously a much bigger car, more space, more kit and no touch sensitive climate buttons like the BMW now has. All at £150 pm cheaper

[@stevem2323]

@@slen6293 Skoda? Yeah sure 😁😁😁

[@stevem2323]

@@slen6293 Just say cheaper, that what it is.

[@Stw_]

Bmw seko ķīniešiem?, ar apendistisko paneli....

[@TimRodieDrivesStuff]

Man nav ne jausmas, kas ir pielikuma panelis. Tomēr man joprojām ir mans aklās zarnās.

[@markscars1069]

Lack of HVAC and favourite buttons. I’m out…

[@faradaycool4058]

Kuala Lumpur...That's the Malaysian Malay word for muddle puddle...Sorry I don't do German

[@Rundstedt2001]

Why park in a muddy pot?😂

[@timrodierides]

This isn't a motorbike

[@jameshodges1496]

Why park it in a puddle? Too annoyed to watch more than 20 seconds.

[@adrianbowden4439]

Schlammige Pfütze ............ Great video.......Thank you!

[@TimRodieDrivesStuff]

Vielen Dank!

[@rob5896]

Dam it seems that I'm the only one who's thinking how on earth is he going to get into that nice new car with filthy muddied shoes on lol I do like the car nice design it needed a big revamp previous models looked bland and dated and they're even coming up with better colours, a BWW that's not Black Blue or White whatever next eh colour choices for the interior I suppose! Has BMW gone mad are they under new management or something more colour choices?

[@ianelliott229]

What on earth makes car makers think touch screen controls are anything other than idiotically dangerous!

[@TimRodieDrivesStuff]

But buttons are ugly and iPhones don’t have many… 🤪 (I agree with you!)

[@ayrplanes]

That lane departure warning just became a lot more useful!

[@robc5955]

Grill etc 🤮 on the subject of highwaymen anyone else note every set of roadworks requires a bloke sat at the wheel of a tipper truck engine running absorbed on their phone……..all day. No just me, oh well.

[@jeremyparsons5379]

£50k for an X1 - shit the bed 😮

[@darrenmcdermott6443]

i test drove this last week alongside the X3..this car felt quite tinny and cheap and too small in the back, also loss of buttons too much compromise, X3 much better and only 2-3k more

[@TimRodieDrivesStuff]

It does feel cheaper than an X3, sure - but there's a £12k difference new in the UK.

[@Pipsicle330]

Totally disagree. There is more head and legroom in the back of the new X1 and that’s even according to BMWs own comparator site. The rear seat space in the X3 is poor considering how big it is.

[@MM-tt7hy]

The X3 design is dated.

[@justice7894]

holy.... x3 is only 2 - 3 k more than x1 ? Where ya living? Your uncle owns a bimmer garage?

[@cp4512]

I test drove both recently too. The X1 felt like a new design (and is now as big as the original X3 is!), whereas the X3 felt dated and not as good value. It costs way more in the UK and instantly takes you over the £40K new car tax threshold so will cost more for the next 5 years too. Just deciding between the X1 and Audi/Volvo/Merc offerings.

[@lupislune]

Enjoyed this video as usual, but in my pedantic form, I really want buttons for climate control. Also, I was slightly hoping you would have driven the car through the muddy puddle and splashed dirty water everywhere, childish, I know.

[@user-jy7yq1vk9d]

Why are you doing your review in a muddy field?

[@TimRodieDrivesStuff]

Because it's my thing