BMW has just unveiled the performance-focused X1 M35i, but until we get our hands on it, we wanted to test the entry-level variant of the SUV. The slowest new X1 money can buy in Europe comes fitted with a three-cylinder engine. Thankfully, BMW Hellas lent us the keys to the least powerful X1 sDrive18i, although this example came packed with equipment.
North American buyers can only get the X1 xDrive28i with the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 241 hp (245 PS / 183 kW), which has been featured in our reviews. On the contrary, Europeans have plenty of choices, as the EU-spec X1 is available in petrol, mild-hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric (iX1) forms, covering a wide spectrum of power outputs.
Review: The 2023 BMW X1 Is A Bigger, Better Take On Entry-Level Luxury
Don’t be fooled by the extravagant looks of our full-spec example – courtesy of the M Package – as the BMW X1 sDrive18i serves as the entry point in the automaker’s populous SUV range. The turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine that lies under the sculpted bonnet produces 134 hp (100 kW / 136 PS) and 230 Nm (170 lb-ft) of torque, transmitted to the front axle exclusively through a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic.
Interestingly, this is exactly the same amount of power you get from a Stellantis electric supermini and a far cry from the 322 hp (240 kW / 326 PS) of the electrified X1 xDrive30e PHEV or the 312 hp (316 PS / 233 kW) of the US-spec X1 M35i. Still, we have driven the BMW 1-Series, 2-Series Gran Coupe, and previous-gen X1 with a similar engine and were satisfied with the performance.
We are curious to test the entry-level X1 in urban and highway environments and see if this powertrain is a fitting choice for the character of the larger, heavier, and more premium third-gen model. Note that the Mercedes-Benz GLA, Audi Q3, and Alfa Romeo Tonale which are the X1’s main rivals in the European premium compact SUV segment are also available with similarly-powerful small-displacement turbocharged petrol engines, albeit with four cylinders.
So what would you like to know about the EU-spec BMW X1 sDrive18i? Write your questions in the comments section below.
