2012 BMW X1 driven to impress

The onlookers who suggested the BMW X1 has more than a passing resemblance to the 3 Series Touring wagon did not know how to close to the truth they really were.

The X1′s proportions–length, width and the lower visual height of the greenhouse–do give it a wagon-like visage.

However, the X1 and the Touring share more than just a passing resemblance stylistically–the X1 is based on the Touring’s platform. Ditto many of the mechanical bits. Regardless, the X1 has a style and significantly more refined drive than one expects from a sport-ute, BMW or otherwise.

The X1′s 2,760-millimetre-long wheelbase delivers both substance and plenty of cabin space. Rear-seat space is generous and easily up to the task of supporting a pair of adults in comfort.

It also delivers on the utility demanded of an SUV. With the 40/20/40-split/folding rear seat upright, the X1 offers up 14.8 cubic feet of space. It will folding all the three portions bumps the capacity to a generous 47.6 cu. ft.

The tester arrived with all the desirable power toys, a good navigation system, solid sound system and BMW’s iDrive controller.

Backing up the X1 up provides the only exception as the tall tail all but it will mandates the need for a backup camera. The visibility is also surprisingly good.

At the X1′s production preview, all test vehicles were powered by in-line six-cylinder engines. And I am really impressed by the power at play and smoothness in which the six delivered it goods.

The disappointment lasted just long enough for the transmission to shift from first into second.  The 2.0-litre four-cylinder is just as sweet as the six and its power production is every bit as robust.

The 241 horsepower is impressive; the torque generated more so. Tis little mill twists out 258 pound-feet at just 1,20 r.p.m..

If you drive it as though there’s an egg between your right foot and the gas pedal and it lips into its economy mode, with the engine barely pushing the tachometer needle over 1,400 r.p.m.. Even at elevated highway speeds, the four still loafs along at surprisingly low revs. The test average fuel economy of 9.7 litres per 100 kilometers–and it certainly was not being driven with an eye to economy.

Power is relayed to the road through BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system. It sends 40 per cent of the power to the front wheels; the rest goes rearward. As with BMW’s other xDrive offerings, the X1a system is both seamless and proficient.

In the ride department, the X1 again succeeds, being more wagon-like than SUV. To begin with, there is enough compliance in the suspension to deliver a cosseting ride.