[fueledbycaffeine]

As a bit of a tangent off of another thread, I actually kinda resent when people blame things (DCT and the B48 engine) on the X1/X2 being “entry level” models. Not everybody is into the keeping up with the Joneses (and not judging if you are doing that), and I don’t put a whole lot of stock into the whole oh the X1/X2 is just an introduction to the brand, a gateway drug so to speak.

Here’s my thought process…

1. I can’t help the fact that I actually WANT a small SUV. The X2 that I have on order is already 2” wider than my current car, but I want a smaller vehicle because it’s much easier to navigate city streets and deal with city parking. The X3 is 3” wider than the X2 which rules it out almost entirely just based on size (if I hadn’t already ruled it out because I loathe the interior of the 2025 model, even though the M50 version drove well.)

2. Power - I’m not willing to settle for something that is hideously underpowered. The 28i is a great car that is basically on par with my current vehicle in terms of power and not incredibly dissimilar with the sportiness factor. For me, it didn’t feel exciting, so I went with the M35i. Similar-ish offerings (in terms of size) from MB, Volvo, Audi, Infiniti, Lexus, Toyota, and Honda seem to have less exciting offerings in terms of HP and torque.

3. Price - the BMW X1 is more expensive than vehicles around the same size that are from Japan, but probably not as much as you’d think (I was actually surprised when I started looking at it). The higher trim levels of some of the Japanese offerings sit around $5k less than the starting price on an X1. If I just wanted “a BMW”, I could have saved myself a ton of money and gone with a used model or a CPO.

4. Style - I’ve had 2 box-shaped, small SUVs in the last 15 years, and I wanted something different this time. I wanted a bit of a mix of the sitting up higher feel of an SUV with more of a look of a car, so that’s why I decided on an X2. Yeah, it has some weird lines, creases, and angles but I don’t really see anything that’s similar from other brands (whether you like or don’t like the styling). The MB GLA is too rounded for me, and it seems like the closest in terms of size.

I appreciate that BMW actually offers something that’s an alternative. It’s got fun driving dynamics, it’s got tech, it’s got style, and it’s got all of that at a high, but not really astronomical price point (go ahead and build a GLA on the MB website with a similarly spec if you don’t believe me).

[Rayneman]

As a new X1 M35 owner I appreciate this post - well written! I had typed out a longer post, but eh...not needed as I'd just be echoing a lot of the same thought.

[tex2670]

I hear you. I like a smaller car; my prior vehicle was a 328, and before that, a Lexus IS.

I wish that manufacturers would not hold back on some more luxury type features (like vented seats, and other stuff) on its smaller vehicles, because I don't want to move up a size class to get all those features.

[paulockenden]

Originally Posted by tex2670

I wish that manufacturers would not hold back on some more luxury type features (like vented seats, and other stuff) on its smaller vehicles, because I don't want to move up a size class to get all those features.

That’s a massive bugbear of mine. I’d like an X1/iX1 with ventilated comfort seats, B&W audio, laser lights, etc. etc.

Oh, and data in the USB sockets!

[fueledbycaffeine]

Originally Posted by tex2670

I hear you. I like a smaller car; my prior vehicle was a 328, and before that, a Lexus IS.

I wish that manufacturers would not hold back on some more luxury type features (like vented seats, and other stuff) on its smaller vehicles, because I don't want to move up a size class to get all those features.

Yeah, I wish I could have gotten leather and ventilated seats.

I have said that same thing about cell phones for years too. Are you old enough to remember when the smallest phones with the fanciest features were the high-end models?

I wanted the better camera but I didn’t want to go to a larger phone. Apple finally put the better camera into the Pro (instead of just in the Pro Max).

[kenrok1]

re: X1 I think the size is great and even though I am giving up a little cargo space from the X3s I'm used to, I find it surprising there is actually more leg room - when I sat in the back for the first time I thought it was my imagination until I checked on a comparison. I do also know the only way they were able to accomplish this was the transverse mounting, DCT, FWD drive setup that draws some complaints.

[timesone]

Originally Posted by fueledbycaffeine

As a bit of a tangent off of another thread, I actually kinda resent when people blame things (DCT and the B48 engine) on the X1/X2 being “entry level” models. Not everybody is into the keeping up with the Joneses (and not judging if you are doing that), and I don’t put a whole lot of stock into the whole oh the X1/X2 is just an introduction to the brand, a gateway drug so to speak.

Here’s my thought process…

1. I can’t help the fact that I actually WANT a small SUV. The X2 that I have on order is already 2” wider than my current car, but I want a smaller vehicle because it’s much easier to navigate city streets and deal with city parking. The X3 is 3” wider than the X2 which rules it out almost entirely just based on size (if I hadn’t already ruled it out because I loathe the interior of the 2025 model, even though the M50 version drove well.)

2. Power - I’m not willing to settle for something that is hideously underpowered. The 28i is a great car that is basically on par with my current vehicle in terms of power and not incredibly dissimilar with the sportiness factor. For me, it didn’t feel exciting, so I went with the M35i. Similar-ish offerings (in terms of size) from MB, Volvo, Audi, Infiniti, Lexus, Toyota, and Honda seem to have less exciting offerings in terms of HP and torque.

3. Price - the BMW X1 is more expensive than vehicles around the same size that are from Japan, but probably not as much as you’d think (I was actually surprised when I started looking at it). The higher trim levels of some of the Japanese offerings sit around $5k [...]

Amen! same myth when I bought my entry level M2

[Boldblue737]

First off no BMW in the USA isn't already a huge step up compared to most vehicles from the mainstream, and in many cases from other "luxury" brands. The software and options in an X1 / X2 are in near lockstep with the most premium models BMW sells. Where does it lack? Power options, overall size and storage, and in some ways a lower standard of interior trim options. I already have a family SUV right now from another luxury brand, but I wanted a more sedan like but higher sitting vehicle for my own personal work commute... the X2 was a perfect choices as *I* love the way it looks, I love the way it drives, the power options were more than enough for me to enjoy it as a daily driver, and the stance and practical hatch make it more useful when I need it vs. a sedan while also not making it look like I'm driving a family SUV to work. The even number X cars are always looked down on here it seems, I suspect because everyone loves the classic BMW sedans and coupes and tolerates the idea of having an "extra" family BMW SUV... but when you try to combine the two they feel it is a jack of all trades and a master of none... perhaps but it is perfect for many, including me.

[Fish Fingers]

It's always been the case that the quality of standard equipment improves, the higher up the model line you go, especially with the premium German brands.

BMW 7 Series and Merc S Class were always known for having the best of everything (tech, comfort, features).

Whereas a 1 Series or A Class didn't.

It's just how it is.

Then there is the actual model designation hierarchy.
For example, a Porsche Turbo S will have all boxes ticked as standard, which will be options (or not available at all) on say a basic S Model.

More spend means more/better equipment.

[fueledbycaffeine]

Originally Posted by Fish Fingers

It's always been the case that the quality of standard equipment improves, the higher up the model line you go, especially with the premium German brands.

BMW 7 Series and Merc S Class were always known for having the best of everything (tech, comfort, features).

Whereas a 1 Series or A Class didn't.

It's just how it is.

Then there is the actual model designation hierarchy.
For example, a Porsche Turbo S will have all boxes ticked as standard, which will be options (or not available at all) on say a basic S Model.

More spend means more/better equipment.

Obviously. The point is that there is a market for the X1/X2 for people who want small cars with a bit of style that are fun to drive. It’s not some misguided idea from BMW that oh, we can hook these new/ future customers in and then entice them into the larger, more expensive vehicles. That’s why it’s not an “entry level” vehicle for some of us. It’s just what we want.

[kenrok1]

Originally Posted by fueledbycaffeine

Obviously. The point is that there is a market for the X1/X2 for people who want small cars with a bit of style that are fun to drive. It’s not some misguided idea from BMW that oh, we can hook these new/ future customers in and then entice them into the larger, more expensive vehicles. That’s why it’s not an “entry level” vehicle for some of us. It’s just what we want.

I believe also what you're saying - at least this is how I feel too - is you are willing to pay more for more premium but don't want to be forced into a larger cage for it. Like your mention of the leather... I would be more than willing to spend the extra 1500 practically every other model charges to get it. I already took every possible option on these, sans the M package because of color or material limitations, but I added the individual components and the massage... I would've liked to have the M seats if I could have just gotten in black - leather obviously, but veganza would've been acceptable. I did look long and hard at the new M50... and even tried to order the M40 but missed the cutoff. I did not like the style of the M50 either, more the exterior than the interior ~ but neither was that appealing. And looking out over that god awful hood is like well you better like and trust your cameras because you cant see shit.

[fueledbycaffeine]

Originally Posted by kenrok1

I believe also what you're saying - at least this is how I feel too - is you are willing to pay more for more premium but don't want to be forced into a larger cage for it.

Yeah, pretty much. The only other BMW that I’d consider buying as my daily driver is an M240i, but that’s terribly impractical for me with 2 doors, limited cargo space, and sitting so low to the ground. I do love it but note that it’s another small vehicle! It’s less than .5” shorter in length and .2” more narrow in width than the X2 that I ordered (FYI - the X2 is ~2.5” longer than the X1).

Every car I’ve owned has been between 67-71” wide and 175-187” long. The 2025 X2 M35i is 72.6” wide and 179.8” long. The X2 is already wider than all of my other vehicles, so why would I want to be in an even larger vehicle?! The new X3 is 187.2” long and 75.6” wide. Nope. That’s a hard pass for me.

Yes, I actually did make a table of car dimensions while I was car shopping to help me to rule out a bunch of models.

[mike_k]

Originally Posted by fueledbycaffeine

Yeah, pretty much. The only other BMW that I’d consider buying as my daily driver is an M240i, but that’s terribly impractical for me with 2 doors, limited cargo space, and sitting so low to the ground. I do love it but note that it’s another small vehicle! It’s less than .5” shorter in length and .2” more narrow in width than the X2 that I ordered (FYI - the X2 is ~2.5” longer than the X1).

Every car I’ve owned has been between 67-71” wide and 175-187” long. The 2025 X2 M35i is 72.6” wide and 179.8” long. The X2 is already wider than all of my other vehicles, so why would I want to be in an even larger vehicle?! The new X3 is 187.2” long and 75.6” wide. Nope. That’s a hard pass for me.

Yes, I actually did make a table of car dimensions while I was car shopping to help me to rule out a bunch of models.

Interesting, like you I did a spreadsheet of compact suv dimensions, which I used to pare my initial list down to the X1, the Volvo xc40, and the Audi q3. I have limited space in our 2 car garage, and my wife’s car is a bit wider than mine, size was a definite consideration.

[Fish Fingers]

Originally Posted by fueledbycaffeine

Obviously. The point is that there is a market for the X1/X2 for people who want small cars with a bit of style that are fun to drive. It’s not some misguided idea from BMW that oh, we can hook these new/ future customers in and then entice them into the larger, more expensive vehicles. That’s why it’s not an “entry level” vehicle for some of us. It’s just what we want.

I do agree with you by the way.

Wife loved her previous X2 and loves her X1. We have no kids or dogs, so why would we need a X3,5,7,iX?
Style is as important as practicality for us.
Her favourite car ever was her Mini JCW.

I just sold my Taycan because it was basically too big (as well as other issues) and bought a BMW i4 M50.

Most would perceive it as a trade down, but fortunately I no longer give a **** what other people think.
I just buy what suits me and I actually think it's the better car.

[kenrok1]

Originally Posted by fueledbycaffeine

The only other BMW that I’d consider buying as my daily driver is an M240i

I love that one too and seriously considered it - my justification 'we don't need two of the same all the time', but the for essentially the same sticker price the lease was a good $300 mo higher ~ that I couldnt justify

[PaperSniper]

Originally Posted by fueledbycaffeine

As a bit of a tangent off of another thread, I actually kinda resent when people blame things (DCT and the B48 engine) on the X1/X2 being “entry level” models. Not everybody is into the keeping up with the Joneses (and not judging if you are doing that), and I don’t put a whole lot of stock into the whole oh the X1/X2 is just an introduction to the brand, a gateway drug so to speak.

Here’s my thought process…

1. I can’t help the fact that I actually WANT a small SUV. The X2 that I have on order is already 2” wider than my current car, but I want a smaller vehicle because it’s much easier to navigate city streets and deal with city parking. The X3 is 3” wider than the X2 which rules it out almost entirely just based on size (if I hadn’t already ruled it out because I loathe the interior of the 2025 model, even though the M50 version drove well.)

2. Power - I’m not willing to settle for something that is hideously underpowered. The 28i is a great car that is basically on par with my current vehicle in terms of power and not incredibly dissimilar with the sportiness factor. For me, it didn’t feel exciting, so I went with the M35i. Similar-ish offerings (in terms of size) from MB, Volvo, Audi, Infiniti, Lexus, Toyota, and Honda seem to have less exciting offerings in terms of HP and torque.

3. Price - the BMW X1 is more expensive than vehicles around the same size that are from Japan, but probably not as much as you’d think (I was actually surprised when I started looking at it). The higher trim levels of some of the Japanese offerings sit around $5k less than the starting price on an X1. If I just wanted “a BMW”, I could have saved myself a ton of money and gone with a used model or a CPO.

4. Style - I’ve had 2 box-shaped, small SUVs in the last 15 years, and I wanted something different this time. I wanted a bit of a mix of the sitting up higher feel of an SUV with more of a look of a car, so that’s why I decided on an X2. Yeah, it has some weird lines, creases, and angles but I don’t really see anything that’s similar from other brands (whether you like or don’t like the styling). The MB GLA is too rounded for me, and it seems like the closest in terms of size.

I appreciate that BMW actually offers something that’s an alternative. It’s got fun driving dynamics, it’s got tech, it’s got style, and it’s got all of that at a high, but not really astronomical price point (go ahead and build a GLA on the MB website with a similarly spec if you don’t believe me).

I could not agree more. This X1 is FAR from being a scaled down BMW. Heck, there is much I like more on it compared to my wife's 330e and my former Z4.

Doug

[Baldilocks73]

The interior of the X1/X2, is arguably much nicer than the interior in the new X3. Materials seem nicer, certainly looks better, I think. The exterior design of the X1 has more character lines than the X3. Overall, I think the X1 & X2 are very premium vehicles.

[dannysauer]

Originally Posted by fueledbycaffeine

Yeah, pretty much. The only other BMW that I’d consider buying as my daily driver is an M240i,

I think we might just get along with each other, as long as you like purple. 😂


I finally got this X1 M35i a couple of days ago after ordering it in August. I ordered it because we drove all of the X models, and it had the seats my wife was most comfortable in - not because it was the least expensive or a gateway. I like that it's small enough to maneuver exceptionally well.

I'm hoping the sun comes out again someday so I can get proper pictures.

[fueledbycaffeine]

Originally Posted by dannysauer

I think we might just get along with each other, as long as you like purple. 😂
Attachment 3647104

I finally got this X1 M35i a couple of days ago after ordering it in August. I ordered it because we drove all of the X models, and it had the seats my wife was most comfortable in - not because it was the least expensive or a gateway. I like that it's small enough to maneuver exceptionally well.

I'm hoping the sun comes out again someday so I can get proper pictures.

THAT IS EPIC! I love, love, LOVE purple.

[Fish Fingers]

Both cars look really good in that colour!

[Baldilocks73]

How did you get that color? I don’t even see that on the Individual Color page for the X1.