New BMW X1 2015 review - pictures

BMW's latest X1 is still the smallest SUV in the range, but it's grown up now with more rugged styling, more space and efficient engines. 

The X1 is less like a jacked-up estate with slightly awkward styling. The new car sits 53mm higher than the old model, plus it's 23mm wider. It's now based on the 2 Series Active Tourer, so that means it's front-wheel drive in entry-le

Up front, the dash will be familiar to anyone who's driven a 2 Series Active Tourer, with plenty of plush materials, a logical layout and the usual thick-rimmed steering wheel. All cars get a six-inch screen as standard, operated via B

There's plenty of adjustment in the front seats, so it's easy to find a comfortable driving position. 

Practicality has taken a big step up over the previous generation X1. There's enough head and legroom in the back for a six-footer to be comfortable, even behind a tall front passenger. The rear bench slides back and forth to boost ver

The boot has a capacity of 505 litres with the rear seats in place. That's 85 litres more than before, plus this increases to 1,550 litres when the rear seats are folded. 

On the road, the X1 is entertaining to drive even if it isn't a true rear-wheel drive BMW. We'd recommend ticking the optional adaptive dampers for £390. 

BMW's precise automatic gearbox is likely to be the most popular choice, and it's nicely refined and slick-shifting. 

Despite the more rugged styling, don't be fooled into thinking the X1 can go too far off the beaten track. It has hill-descent control and four-wheel drive, but an Evoque will be a better bet if you want to do some more serious mud-plu

Still, the X1 will be plenty capable for the minor off-roading duties that this kind of car will be tackling - some muddy tracks at worst. 

The X1 isn't as sharp as a 3 Series, but the X1 is still entertaining to drive, and the xDrive models offer plenty of grip due to the intelligent all-wheel drive system sending power to the front or rear when either axle senses slip.&n

Styling is more cohesive than the previous model and is a handsome car. 

The new X1 sits higher than the previous model, too. 

All engines emit less than 150g/km of CO2, and the diesels are true economy champions. The sDrive18d emits just 114g/km of CO2 and returns a claimed 68.9mpg. 

The X1 gets all the usual BMW design clues, including sharp front lights with signature LED daytime running lights. 

Standard equipment is good on the X1, but it's easy to get carried away with the options list meaning it can become pricey.