2023 BMW X1 Crossover Packs In a Lot for under $40k

• The 241-hp 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder in this third-generation X1 compact crossover gets some meaningful upgrades, including the Miller combustion cycle for greater efficiency.

• The new X1 has a much cleaner interior layout, with very few hard buttons and two screens now behind one sheet of glass incorporating both the instrument cluster and touchscreen above the center stack.

• The X1’s rivals include the Audi Q3, Lexus UX, Mercedes-Benz GLA, and Volvo XC40.

While BMW launches refreshed versions of its X7 SUV and 3-Series sedan, along with the all-new 7-Series flagship that includes the first all-electric i7, it might be easy to overlook the practical, more affordable X1 compact crossover, which is all-new as a 2023 model and launching now.

But this third-generation X1, which BMW describes as a compact sports activity vehicle, warrants attention for its accessibility, its familial design, its interior appointments, and its overall performance.

Battery-electric vehicles seem to have most of Munich’s attention these days, so it’s encouraging to see an all-new vehicle with a gasoline-fueled combustion engine.

The outstanding B46 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that powers most of BMW’s smaller models gets some meaningful upgrades, including the Miller combustion cycle for greater efficiency and revised geometry for the combustion chambers.

Plus, the new X1’s four-pot will have eight fuel injectors (direct and multi-port for each cylinder), a belt-and-suspenders approach pioneered by Toyota and Lexus some 20 years ago.

The overall result is a substantial increase in output, to 241 hp (from 228 hp on the outgoing X1) and 295 lb-ft of torque (up from 258 lb-ft), available starting at a mere 1500 rpm. The powertrain upgrades make the new, athletic X1 spirited and fun to drive, while delivering a reasonably spacious second row and cargo hold.

The EPA fuel-economy ratings improve from 27 mpg combined on the previous model to 28 mpg on the 2023 X1.

With 121 hp per liter, BMW says the new X1 can sprint to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds and reach a top speed of 149 mph with performance tires, representing slight improvements in both metrics compared to the previous X1.

All versions of the new X1 get xDrive AWD, supported by a quick, responsive 7-speed DCT, which replaces the eight-speed automatic that powered the previous model’s rear wheels or all four. The rear-drive offering goes away now with the ’23 model.

The re-engineered X1 weighs in at 3750 pounds, 53 pounds heavier than the predecessor, reflecting the new dimensions: nearly 2 inches longer and taller and nearly an inch wider. It looks more upright and more substantial.

Yes, the signature twin kidneys up front look a bit too large, but they at least appear to be correctly proportioned relative to the headlamps (which can’t be said of the new 7-Series) and the rest of the front end. There must be significant underhood cooling benefits—rather than aesthetic purposes—to BMW’s oversized kidneys.