As an automotive expert, I’m frequently asked about vehicles to avoid in today’s market. The truth is, genuinely “bad” cars are rare. However, in fiercely competitive segments, merely being good isn’t enough – you need to be exceptional. This brings us to the 2023 BMW X1, a vehicle that aims for greatness in the subcompact luxury crossover class.
This segment is brimming with impressive contenders, including the Lexus UX, Volvo XC40, Audi Q3, Mercedes-Benz GLA, and Range Rover Evoque. To truly stand out, a vehicle must offer something special. The Bmw X1 2023 does just that, particularly with its interior and technology.
Image of the 2023 BMW X1 interior showcasing its modern dashboard and screen layout, emphasizing the minimalist design.
Stepping into the 2023 BMW X1, the interior immediately impresses. The minimalist design philosophy, reminiscent of the BMW iX, translates beautifully to this subcompact crossover. A striking curved glass panel houses dual screens, creating a floating effect above the dashboard. The left screen serves as the instrument cluster, while the right is a vibrant touchscreen interface controlling virtually all vehicle functions.
A floating center console further enhances the modern feel. It houses essential vehicle controls: the start/stop button, a rocker switch for gear selection (a departure from traditional knobs), an intuitive volume scroll wheel, and buttons for drive mode and parking brake.
This design ethos prioritizes essential features while eliminating unnecessary clutter. While dedicated physical climate controls are absent, save for mandated front and rear defrost buttons, on-screen controls at the display’s base are always accessible and user-friendly. Adjusting temperature is as simple as tapping the red (warmer) or blue (cooler) zones. The automatic climate control system is efficient, minimizing the need for manual adjustments.
Close-up image of the BMW X1 2023’s infotainment screen displaying Apple CarPlay, highlighting the seamless wireless integration and sharp display quality.
The BMW infotainment system is not only visually sharp but also delivers exceptional wireless Apple CarPlay integration, arguably among the best available. Wireless Android Auto is also supported. BMW leverages advanced CarPlay functionalities, extending Apple Maps display beyond the central infotainment screen to the instrument cluster.
Typically, in-cluster navigation maps necessitate using built-in systems, which can be less user-friendly than preferred. However, the 2023 BMW X1 cleverly integrates a dedicated Apple Maps display within the BMW digital cluster. This allows for simultaneous use of the infotainment screen for other applications, such as Apple Music, maximizing screen utility.
For iPhone users, this seamless integration could be a decisive factor when considering the BMW X1 2023 against its competitors, given the overall excellence of vehicles in this class. Adding to the convenience, a wireless phone charger is located at the base of the center stack, featuring a clever restraint bar, similar to those in roller coasters.
Image focusing on the wireless phone charger in the 2023 BMW X1, demonstrating the unique restraining bar feature for secure phone storage.
This ingenious charging pad secures your phone, preventing it from sliding during driving and keeping it charged. Retrieval is effortless – simply lift your phone, and the bar releases instantly. However, using larger cups in the cupholders might obstruct easy phone access, a minor design consideration for those who frequently carry oversized drinks.
Beneath the floating center console, a spacious open storage area accommodates items like a medium-sized purse, or smaller everyday essentials such as AirPods, wallets, keys, and sunglasses, offering convenient and accessible storage.
Externally, the 2023 BMW X1 presents an inoffensive yet attractive design. It avoids the overly large kidney grille seen on some recent BMW models, maintaining a balanced and appealing front fascia. While crossover designs have inherent limitations in differentiation, BMW’s design team has successfully sculpted the X1 with sharp lines and subtle contours, resulting in a visually pleasing vehicle, particularly in the striking San Remo Green Metallic color.
Exterior image of the 2023 BMW X1 showcasing its side profile and wheel design, highlighting the compact and stylish crossover aesthetics.
The tested all-wheel-drive 2023 BMW X1 xDrive28i, priced at $46,795, is appropriately positioned within its class. However, the absence of standard adaptive cruise control is a notable omission, especially considering its availability as standard on base models of mainstream cars like the Toyota Corolla. This feels like a cost-saving measure that detracts from the overall premium experience.
Another minor drawback is the slightly slow auto start/stop restart and the lack of a dedicated button to disable it. Workarounds include switching to Sport mode via the drive mode button, which deactivates the feature and enhances driving dynamics.
Despite these minor points, the BMW X1 2023 stands out as my current top pick in the subcompact luxury crossover segment. It’s an excellent choice for city driving or as a first car for safety and style-conscious younger drivers with the budget.
While the Lexus UX and Volvo XC40 remain strong contenders in the same price range, the 2023 BMW X1 distinguishes itself through its exceptional design, particularly the interior, and its suite of advanced technology features, making it a leader in its class.
Front view image of the 2023 BMW X1 in San Remo Green Metallic (Note: While described as San Remo Green in the original text, the image may not accurately reflect this color). This highlights the vehicle’s front design and grille.
