2026 BMW X1 Model Review with Prices, Photos, & Specs
BMW X1
Key Features
- Starting at $43,200 MSRP*
- 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder engine producing 241 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque (X1 xDrive28i) or 313 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque (X1 M35i) and 7-speed Dual Clutch Automatic Transmission
- My Modes with Personal Mode, Sport Mode, and Efficient Mode
- BMW ConnectedDrive® Services and Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto Compatibility
- Standard xDrive All-Wheel-Drive System
- Available Driving Assistant Professional including Frontal Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, and Speed Limit Info
- BMW Curved Display with 10.25-inch instrument cluster and 10.7-inch diagonal central information screen and OTA updates
- BMW Drive Recorder featuring Joy Recorder, Remote Theft Recorder, and Crash Recorder functionality
About the BMW X1
Say hello to the smallest member of the growing Sports Activity Vehicle® family from BMW. The compact X1 offers limitless possibilities for adventure thanks to its potent yet efficient performance capabilities and striking design. Power comes from a standard 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder engine that offers a blend of exhilaration and fuel economy to take your adventures further than ever before. The bold styling of the X1 is highlighted by distinctive characteristics like standard LED headlights and taillights, chrome trim accents, and standard 18-inch alloy wheels.
Inside the cabin, you’ll discover a driver-focused command center that’s packed with the latest in connectivity features. Its available sport seats come upholstered with perforated SensaTec 2.0, each offered in a variety of colors and contrast stitching. Dynamic, capable, and ready to take on whatever your weekend plans have to offer – the BMW X1 continues to set the benchmark for the modern compact luxury SUV.
What the Critics Say
Luxurious equipment and extra power aside, the more assertive body shape and styling should help the X1 emerge from the small luxury SUV segment's shadows. Considering how several of its key competitors remain small, hatchback-ish things, such as the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class and Audi Q3, the X1's rectilinear, more SUV-like duds bring it more in line with offerings like the Mercedes GLB-Class and Range Rover Evoque.” — MotorTrend
The BMW X1 is the most affordable crossover SUV in the brand's lineup but hardly seems like it when you drive it. It's enjoyable to drive and pretty roomy for a little SUV. BMW has also packed in a lot of its latest technology features.” — Edmunds
What’s New for 2026
While mostly small in nature, buyers will still be impressed by the various improvements and updates that have been made to the popular BMW X1 for the 2026 model year. The previously optional Convenience and Technology packages have been streamlined and condensed with most features now included as standard on all models. Similarly, the M35i Convenience package now includes more new features for 2026. Visually, Dune Grey, Night Dusk, Vegas Red, and Frozen Portimao Blue exterior colors debut for 2026 while Remo Green, Utah Orange, Blue Bay Lagoon, and Phytonic Blue have been discontinued. Inside, Smoke White, Castanea, and an Atlas Grey and Smoke White Veganza two-tone color configurations are now available. Oyster and Mocha interior color schemes have been dropped along with the optional black and red Veganza upholstery option.
BMW X1 Features
Dynamic Power
At the heart of every BMW X1 is a 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder 241-horsepower engine paired with a 7-speed Dual-Clutch transmission (DCT), delivering the ultimate balance of responsive acceleration and remarkable efficiency. The legendary xDrive all-wheel drive system, standard on all models, gives the X1 stability and peace of mind in all weather conditions. Lightweight design, responsive steering, and intelligent braking are only a few highlights of the outstanding driving capabilities found on the X1. Using the innovative My Modes system, drivers can custom-tailor the drive characteristics of their BMW X1 to match their personal preferences.
Pushing performance even further is the X1 M35i, the high-performance variant of the X1. With the M35i, the engine is tuned to 312 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This cuts a full second off the 0-60 time – from 6.2 seconds in the xDrive 28i to 5.2 seconds in the M35i. Handling and braking are also improved thanks to its standard Adaptive M Suspension and M Sport Brakes with Blue Calipers and Performance Control for the xDrive AWD system. The M35i has unique M wheels, an M Rear spoiler, and a leather-wrapped M Sport steering wheel.
Refined Interior
Step inside the BMW X1 and experience a meticulously crafted interior that’s catered to the needs of even the most discerning drivers. Power front seats covered in SensaTec 2.0 upholstery put the driver comfortably in control while rear seats with sliding and reclining functions make the rear cabin exceptionally comfortable. The X1 does a phenomenal job balancing sophistication and versatility. With the 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats folded down, the X1 expands to reveal a cavernous cargo area and adds flexibility for who and what you’re carrying. Other premium features include standard ambient interior lighting along with an available Panoramic moonroof that lets you fill the cabin with fresh air and natural lighting.
Innovative Technology
The X1 is equipped with advanced technology to help you stay focused on what’s important. The optional Full-Color Head-up Display projects vital driving information such as speed limits, collision warnings, and navigation guidance directly on the windshield. A floating armrest with integrated control panel makes navigation and in-car entertainment easy to access while an impressive, standard BMW Curved Display keeps everything you need in plain sight. Welcome even more cutting-edge technology into your X1 with enticing options such as Wireless Charging and Wi-Fi Hotspot, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, and a Harman Kardon surround sound system.
The available Driving Assistance Professional gives drivers the confidence they need to face any obstacle. City Collision Mitigation and Pedestrian Detection keep you aware of your surroundings while driving around the city and automatic high beams illuminate the long road ahead.
Trims & Specs
X1 xDrive28i
- Starting at $43,200 MSRP*
- 2.0-liter BMW TwinPower Turbo inline 4-cylinder with 241 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque
- xDrive all-wheel-drive system
- BMW Curved Display with configurable 10.25-inch instrument cluster and 10.7-inch central information display
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers with automatic headlight control
- Power tailgate
X1 M35i
- Starting at $52,400 MSRP*
- 2.0-liter BMW TwinPower Turbo inline 4-cylinder with 312 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque
- Adaptive M Suspension
- M Sport Brakes with Blue Calipers
- Harman Kardon® Premium Sound System
- 3-spoke leather-wrapped, multi-function M Sport steering wheel
*Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for vehicle as shown does not necessarily represent the dealer’s actual sale price and does not include tax, title, license, registration and adjusted market value. Dealer sets actual price. Please consult your selected dealer.