NEW BMW X1 vs BMW iX1 review - new electric champion? | What Car?

#WhatCar #BMWiX1 #BMWX1
Is the new BMW X1 better than ever? And is the fully-electric BMW iX1 a class-leading EV?? Watch to find out.
Save thousands on your next new car with What Car? at www.whatcar.com/new-car-deals/
New videos are uploaded to What Car? each week. Don't miss a single one. Subscribe now: bit.ly/2Obgxjd
Visit our website at www.whatcar.com/
What Car? is the UK's biggest car-buying brand and has been helping Britain's car buyers make purchasing decisions for more than 40 years. Our tests are widely regarded as the most trusted source of new car advice.
This channel brings you trusted reviews on all the new models on the market, all the latest first drives, reader reviews, and great car-buying advice.
All reviews are available in full online at Whatcar.com - the UK's leading car-buying website, offering trusted reviews and data on every new car. The website also offers advice on car leasing, new car deals and new and used cars for sale.
Follow What Car? here:
LIKE What Car? on Facebook: goo.gl/yv5jF8
FOLLOW What Car? on Twitter: goo.gl/SJzmT8
Check out our full video catalog: bit.ly/2W81iu9
Video chapters:
0:00 Intro and background
0:46 Rivals
1:06 What’s new
1:35 Interior
3:54 Practicality
4:53 Engines
6:16 Driving the iX1
8:18 Driving the X1
9:33 Best thing
9:44 Worst thing
10:00 Pricing and verdict

[@cardiffst]

No rotary controller, no hot keys, no physical AC dials and buttons. Absolute madness.

[@user-fs8lz9re2q]

All voice control is the way they are all going unfortunately.

[@grandiebob2500]

I’ve had three BMWs with idrive. It was similarly criticised at launch. I’ve test driven the new version. It is a different approach to infotainment with loads more functionality. I’ve ordered one.

[@Krieky]

Both look like lovely cars. X1 is really the perfect size. I have owned one for 4 years now.

[@gevinduxrs2]

as i didn't see on thumbnail who's presenting I was hoping for this guy...! he's just good when it comes to review cars. since I don't like the new bm designs I really like the this new X1. so I really wanted to enjoy the review combines the car n the journalist. The fact that he gave us quick history recap is even awesome. Thank you so much man for the push you do!!

[@GeorgeSotirov]

Well I haven't driven the new X1, but the previous model handled way better than the XC40. The Volvo was one of the most boring cars I've driven, tho it was definitely more comfortable.

[@johnfranklin6394]

I just test drove the iX1 and i4. Preferred the iX1. My dealer only got it yesterday at the showroom. It was superbly refined and comfortable, especially in Eco Pro mode thanks to the adaptive suspension. I did miss the iDrive rotary control, which I have in my current 1 series. Other than that, it felt like a big step forward for BMW, and was way nicer inside than the XC40 Recharge I tested a couple of weeks ago. The interesting thing is that the iX1 is as cheap or cheaper than rivals when leased via my company salary sacrifice scheme despite the higher list price. So, at the moment, the BMW is definitely my choice.

[@colinrenfrew48]

Despite their recent horrors, BMW have a handsome car here. The interior is a triumph.

[@nl33izzettin26]

you forgot to explain that the price is without options like cruise control and heated seats which can be switched on by getting a subription for each feature... That makes this car much more expensive than it already is...

[@peterhammer4644]

We test-drove the XC40 before buying our Hybrid-X1. For me / us the X1 was miles better ride. The XC40 MUCH too soft, zero feedback to driver.

[@Lotuselisetube]

Like others sorry to see knobs and buttons disappear… and the fantastic rotary dial 😳😳😳. Will look at PHEV variants when I come to change my BMW 330e MSport Touring. What size wheels would you choose for the best ride?

[@yiw2587]

how did the brake feel of new x1 ? I tried x1 and x3 for 2021 models two years ago, and would like say that driving x1 like you drove a Japanese car, not the typical BMW feel, when i drove X3, it's exactly what BMW should be, but the brake was too sensitive, you just tip-toe touched the paddle, the car would delay sharply, completely from from my old BMW 3 series car

[@Akas1001]

TESTED all 4 cars, Audi e-tron, Skode enyaq, Bmw ix1 and Vw id4.......... went for the skoda enyaq coupe sportline plus 4 wheeldrive,it was a Amazing drive and Spec! And iv been driving Bmw and vw cars all my life!! Totally surprised with Skoda enyaq!

[@erasmus9627]

Another fabulous car ruined by touch screen madness. What will it take for car manufacturers to realise that physical knobs and buttons are far superior - and safer - to use than touchscreen controls. Especially for basic controls like volume and aircon. This new BMW is a great looking car, but the touchscreen problem is a dealbreaker for me (and many others I’m sure). The sooner this touchscreen fad passes, the better and safer our cars will be.

[@far_tech5555]

There are physcial buttons on the center console for music, also on the sreering. There are two buttons for defrosting front and rear glass shields. The other climate control is on screen. Increasing or decreasing the temp is always there on the screen and pretty accessible. For the rest of the control, you need to press on one shortcut which is always on the screen and control or just use voice command. It is not end of the world having less buttons. If the voice control is accurate and responsive enough for simple tasks like turning on and off A/C or steering heating, it is a pass for me.

[@davidperry3531]

I think the new X1 information system has been designed quite well without the I drive wheel. I use the voice activation on my 330i and it is quite accurate in responding to requests, particularly using navigation. The steering wheel controls are also comprehensive and I don’t really understand why reviewers go on about the a/con controls because Climate Control means that the set temperature rarely needs to be changed but a quick voice request will address the problem.

[@kidfreejones]

It's cheaper to make screens now and update the software vs an array of buttons. Don't get me wrong it shits me too, be nice if there was a happy medium of screens and buttons like I have in my Cooper S.

[@christian-jakobgrasl]

Thx, my words !

[@cp4512]

I believe it’s actually also built around good voice recognition as an input so you don’t have to take your hand off the steering wheel at all. I test drive the new X1 and it’s amazing as it accepts inputs in many ways, I tried “turn up the heating”, “I’m a bit cold”, “set temperature to 20 degrees”, “increase temperature 2 degrees”, and they all worked flawlessly. Many of the reviewers (like this video) haven’t realised this!

[@SteveLoughran]

drove petrol one last week. steering is light -makes it easy to use/park round tow, but does make windy roads less entertaining. pretty noisy with the window down and fuel economy at 28mpg not great. hybrid or ix1 better power options-for a price

[@schwarzedition]

center fascia - console box... represents soooo entry level. and heated rear seats option is not available for entry level, x1 x2 and benz glb.

[@oliverstemp9132]

Was hoping to see how much the rear floor has been raised on the iX1

[@zimcoder]

Looks much bigger than I expected

[@UknownAviator]

Hey ! I just ordered one and I have to say that in some things I disagree 😢 and some I agree ! I believe that it is actually very manuverable

[@marcusoctober4856]

Damn, those bezels are huge on that driver's display

[@philipwoodford6286]

Huge improvement over past models imo

[@glennchinyangarara8225]

Love this new X1, one of the best small premium looking SUVs

[@wass006]

Currently the best looking bmw

[@jancauberg4958]

Well, a UK journalist would be positive about a German car. I drove one and it is way better than the other 2 cars mentioned. But .................what's more to say here.

[@ruru18r]

Hello all! I am currently in the process of configuring an iX1 model and i was looking intensely at the driving assistance package - i couldn't find a comparison - i reached BMW and got all the data - please find the information below - if possible could you please do a video on the pro/ cons for these packages/ the Professional ones comes with a big financial impact (extra 5 000 Eur) - is this really worth it or you have the closer benefits by having 5AS+5AT ( aprox 1 300 Eur) ? 5AS - Driving Assistant Radar-based driver assistance system consisting of: Lane Change Warning, rear crossing traffic warning with brake intervention, exit warning, Rear Collision Prevention - Lane Change Warning with active return, permanently monitors the zones to each side of the vehicle, detects vehicles in the "blind spot" from 20 km/h and faster when intending to change lanes (indicator is activated or stalk is held in 'short on' position), haptic warning via the steering wheel (vibration) and flashing symbol in the exterior mirror as well as return to the lane via active steering intervention. Warnings can be issued when turning (e.g. U-turn) in the low speed range up to approx. 20 km/h. - Rear crossing traffic warning: Supports the driver, for example, when reversing out of parking spaces and brakes to avoid potential collisions with intersecting traffic in situations where it is difficult to see everything around them. The Reversing Assist Camera extends the rear crossing traffic warning by an additional real-image display. - Rear collision prevention: detects the threat of rear collisions via rear sensors and warns the traffic behind via the hazard warning lights (flashing in double frequency). Preventive measures will also be taken in unavoidable accident situations (e.g. belt tensioning, closing windows, etc.). - Exit warning: detects approaching objects (vehicles, cyclists) and warns the driver and/or passengers when opening doors if there is a risk of collision with the detected object. Please note: system scopes included in the optional equipment only provide assistance within defined system limits. It remains the responsibility of the driver to react to the actual traffic situation. 5AT - Driving Assistant Plus Camera- and radar-based driver assistance system consisting of Active Cruise Control (the vehicle's speed is controlled and maintained in the range from approximately 30-180 km/h, allowing for a variable distance from the vehicle ahead). In addition to vehicles driving ahead, stopped vehicles can also be detected, automatic initial braking of the vehicle, braking up to standstill if necessary (Stop&Go function). The system offers controlled start-up from a standstill, either automatically or initiated by the driver. If requested, the system can adapt the distance according to the situation so the driver does not need to take action. Operation of the Active Cruise Control via multifunction controls for steering wheel. Steering and Lane Control Assistant (basic): helps the driver stay in the middle of the lane using corrective steering interventions in the speed range 0-180 km/h, thus extending the functionality of Active Cruise Control. Speed Limit Info with display of speed limits further ahead and no-overtaking indicator as well as manual Speed Limit Assist which enables the adoption of a detected speed limit as a set speed for the Distance Control (ACC with Stop&Go) and Speed Limiter function as well as Cruise Control. (not for BG) Lane Departure Warning with lane return, detects lane markings at speeds above approx. 70 km/h and transmits vibrations via the steering wheel as a warning to prevent inadvertent departure from the lane and potential collisions with oncoming traffic when turning. Suppressed when turn indicators are active or the indicator stalk is held in the one-touch position (desired lane change). Display in the instrument cluster. Please note: system scopes included the optional equipment only provide assistance within defined system limits. It remains the responsibility of the driver to react to the actual traffic situation. 5AU - Driving Assistant Professional Camera and radar-based driver assistance system with the following functions incl. the contents of option code 5AS 'Driving Assistant': - Steering and lane control assistant: helps the driver stay in the middle of the lane using corrective steering interventions in the speed range 0-210km/h. In narrow passages on motorways (e.g. road works), the steering assistance ensures that a proper distance to vehicles at the sides and lane markings is maintained. The driver is requested to keep both hands on the steering wheel during vehicle guidance to ensure that they are paying attention and able to react if necessary. - Distance control (Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function) up to 210 km/h - Lane Keeping Assistant with active side collision protection: assists the driver in keeping in lane and actively preventing potential side collisions by means of corrective steering interventions (Lane Change Warning and Lane Departure Warning, side-collision warning). A visual warning is displayed in addition to the active steering intervention, and the steering wheel vibrates. Applies to Lane Change Warning and Lane Departure Warning from approx. 20km/h. - Front/rear crossing traffic warning: brakes in the event of crossing traffic while leaving/entering a parking space as well as while turning into crossing traffic in situations with restricted visibility. (up to 7km/h) Depending on vehicle configuration, information is shown in the camera display (panorama/Surround View) or in the PDC display. - The Emergency Stop Assistant is capable of controlling the vehicle for a short time and stopping it in the event of a medical emergency. This function can be overridden by operation of the accelerator, steering wheel and other controls. Additionally, the hazard warning flashers are activated to warn nearby road users, and the rescue services are automatically alerted via ECALL. - Road Priority Warning: assistance with visual/acoustic warning of a potential collision with intersecting traffic. Comprised of partial functions: warning in right-of-way situations and at stop signs (only with option 6U3 'BMW Live Cockpit Professional'). Active at up to 85 km/h. Please note: system scopes included the optional equipment only provide assistance within defined system limits. It remains the responsibility of the driver to react to the actual traffic situation. - Steering and Lane Control Assistant - Emergency Stop Assistant - Lane Change Assistant (only for CZ, HU, SI, PL) - Distance Control (ACC with Stop&Go) - Lane Departure Warning - Front/rear crossing traffic warning - Evasion Assistant

[@jonny5777]

I don’t know who car manufacturers are asking questions to but I certainly do not like touchscreens. I wouldn’t buy this car even though I love it because it doesn’t have the rotary dial

[@owenmcdonald5922]

Are you sure the 3 series has a rotary dial? I think the 23 model year has the same system as here on the X1.

[@slen6293]

Still has it yes

[@owenmcdonald5922]

@@slen6293 reviews of the updated/ lci are starting to pop up and I see system 8 has a rotary wheel.

[@80y3r9]

Wider is worse, unless you're driving on wider roads making your car wider is worse not better, if I want a bigger car there is a whole range, annoying

[@Billywoo12]

We have just take delivery of an X1 in Australia. A really good car but the iDrive8 (without a controller) is a giant step backwards. Impossible to control on the move and a clumsy UI. Plus you need to connect to BMW ID, which is buggy and has outages. Sure we will get used to it over time but BMW won't be able to provide a controller via an over the air update!

[@davzer3773]

another new owner unused to using voice control, I've been using it for quite a while now and wouldn't even contemplate going back to and an idrive.......how quaint having to press a button! Next time you're in the car try "Hey Bmw change ambient light to purple" (any colour) and it does it straight away without any issues, try that with an idrive and you have to drive through the menus

[@Billywoo12]

@@davzer3773 what’s wrong with choice? Why does the iX have the controller and not the X1? I hate voice control when others are in the car with me.

[@bodrulm1]

Which one is bigger internally - iX1 or iX3? The iX1 seems to have a bigger boot so I'm curious to know.

[@glennchinyangarara8225]

It’s close but I reckon the ix1 has more space inside

[@smwatson1512]

This new iX1 has the same boot capacity as the iX3, what's going on there?

[@advancelast1740]

BMW fooling all the people all of the time…maybe

[@SteveLoughran]

shorter engine compartment; not much difference in interior space despite x1 being shorter. not as wide as the x3, but a more modern platform, which shows in things like its safety rating, especially the "doesn't kill other people" score at "83/100" vs "53/100"

[@bodrulm1]

Is the interior space for passengers and drivers the same as the iX3?

[@coree74]

You're going in the wrong direction... This car rivals the EQA. Compare it to that.

[@bimlico]

A key component for me as a BMW buyer, was the iDrive system plus physical knobs for climate control. The best and safest system ever. Now that BMW are eliminating that, I'm just not going to buy another. This is corporate madness. Touch screens are more dangerous. Why can't they see that?

[@douglasunmack961]

A clattery diesel or unrefined petrol with a harsh ride. BMW needs to do much better. How can these shortcomings still be acceptable in 2022/23? Pretty styling though.

[@GeorgeSotirov]

The diesel is a great engine actually. Economical, reliable and quick. Who cares if its noisy

[@cp4512]

I test drove the 23i. It was smooth, quiet and very refined, but with plenty of power if you put your foot down! Recommend you test drive one yourself and I think you might be pleasantly surprised. 👍

[@cabottaxi]

Very nice but 1 week ago bought a 1 year old 71 plate X drive 2.0d , Old shape model as the new one won't fit in my garage or through the gates. Too big and bloated. Seems as if all manufaturers are all trying to make their cars bigger without thought to the infrastructure. If you want one delivery is quoted at up to a year

[@steveh5005]

In 10 years the screens have built in redundancy. So problems there. Plus batteries will be hard to replace. As tech improves every 6 months. This whole electricty recharging puts me off. And lack of charging infrastructure

[@newbeginnings8566]

The ix1 with the options you'd want is just heading into the 'far too expensive' price range...

[@SteveLoughran]

it's about the same as the volvo Xc40 recharge and audi Q4 when you get the 72-77 KWh models. the ix1 is only 65 KWh, but should be more efficient than the volvo, given it's way better drag coefficient. still a massive amount for any vehicle...

[@ViewBothSides]

Wow, a colossal 54% / £19,000 premium for replacing the engine/fuel tank with an electric motor/battery. No-one admitted electric cars were going to be greener but less practical and 50% more expensive.

[@GIRLRAZR]

WOW U REALLY THINK THE XC40 IS SO GREAT?

[@antwonefernandez7554]

Unless I missed it no explanation of the 25e and 30e in phev format...

[@Kababalax]

Are BMW not paying you enough?

[@srmichael2179]

I owned one for 11 years until one day it went up flames while driving.

[@goodlifebdg]

What hapenned ?

[@srmichael2179]

@@goodlifebdg BMW has been selling cars from 2006 to 2017 with a faulty fuel valve in engine, a faulty part in the exhaust and a faulty part in the battery fixture, which can cause engine fires while driving or when parked. Mine went up in flames while driving. They knew it and kept it away from the customers.

[@talkandplay]

Great review.

[@alanwayte432]

No Rotary dial no sale, utter madness

[@binaryblog]

Almost double the price for the electric version. Its insane 😤

[@peterhammer4644]

in Finland 15k eur more, so not even close to double.

[@mashfour]

Infotainment? Climate control, satnav, phone, indicators, wipers.....etc. More usability the less you pay nowadays

[@mikadavies660]

I would much rather the iX1 than the £60,000 Nissan EV. It has more space, is more practical, faster and has a better badge!

[@Tigerfan50]

$60K powered by a 1.5L 3 cylinder. Nope.

[@KHD1982]

Old Q3 why 🫢

[@TheophilusPWildbeest]

Another well made grey box from BMW. Nobody will ever say wow when they see it.

[@nevilleconnolly8938]

If it’s not broken don’t fix it!

[@minniesaab7255]

🆒️❗💯🔝👍🏻

[@stum8374]

you never put a touch screen anything in a car and no dial is a big no-no thank you v much.instead of putting bigger batteries in to get more range why not build the car with more carbon to keep the weight down ?

[@draigaur9543]

what owners want huh ? didnt ask me tho did ya bmw! XD

[@marantamil459]

Alfa Tonale >

[@tubelator]

xc40 a better driver? you serious? :) Volvo is the most boring setup ever! xc40 twin motor is fast but still the car itself is boring to drive.

[@Sweepdog700]

More touch screen. No I-drive, stupid decision. We don’t want this BMW!

[@andreipop1]

That front end looks like a Mercedes.

[@rg6982]

Looks nothing like a Mercedes lol every single Mercedes looks exactly the same with ab extremely dull front bumper which they copy and paste from the cheaper A class to the over priced E class

[@SteveLoughran]

back looks like a late-model honda civic

[@dannyk2962]

How on earth can bmw make such a trash ev, middle tunnel seriously?

[@TVCHLORD]

bmw is the first company to hire blind car designers

[@TheMpofu]

Surely not describing the X1?

[@talkandplay]

@@TheMpofu Exception is the X1 2023..BMW did a great job ,,still not a fan of the large grille but given everything else it is a winner.

[@s.szilagyi9374]

Even a Volvo handles better? How disappointing...