The Rise of the Compact Luxury SUV
The BMW X1 has long been a gateway into the prestigious BMW lineup for those seeking luxury and practicality in a compact form. For 2025, the smallest SUV from Bavaria has undergone thoughtful updates that align with the brand’s design direction, tech ambitions, and customer demands.
In Australia, where the SUV market is red-hot and buyers are increasingly looking for smaller yet premium crossovers, the new BMW X1 competes in a tough field that includes the Audi Q3, Volvo XC40, Lexus UX, and Mercedes-Benz GLA.
So, is the 2025 BMW X1 still a worthy contender, or has the entry-level Beemer lost its spark?
1. Exterior Design: Bold and Upscale
BMW has sharpened the X1’s design for 2025, making it look more like its larger X3 sibling than ever before.
Key Visual Highlights:
- Bolder Kidney Grille: Now larger and more upright, aligning with BMW’s new design language.
- Slim LED Headlights: Standard across the range, with adaptive LED available on higher trims.
- Muscular Wheel Arches: Adds to the rugged SUV stance.
- Sculpted Rear End: With 3D LED taillights and a sporty bumper treatment.
The car looks more planted and mature than previous generations, and the added visual width makes it seem bigger than it is. It’s a solid 10/10 in street presence for a small SUV.
2. Dimensions & Practicality: Small but Smart
Despite being BMW’s smallest SUV, the 2025 X1 has grown slightly in dimensions.
| Dimension | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Length | 4,500 mm |
| Width | 1,845 mm |
| Height | 1,642 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,692 mm |
| Boot Capacity | 540L (expandable to 1,600L) |
The result is a roomier cabin, more rear legroom, and a very usable boot space that rivals larger midsize SUVs. You can easily fit a pram or luggage for a weekend getaway.
3. Interior Comfort and Build Quality
BMW is known for its clean, functional cabins, and the X1 doesn’t disappoint.
Cabin Features:
- Curved Dual-Screen Layout: A 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and 10.7-inch infotainment touchscreen curved toward the driver.
- Premium Materials: Soft-touch panels, aluminium accents, and optional leather trim.
- Ambient Lighting: Configurable colour settings enhance the night-time driving vibe.
- Space: Impressive rear legroom and a flat floor make it more comfortable for three rear passengers than you'd expect.
Noise insulation has been improved as well, giving the X1 a near-X3-like premium feel from the inside.
4. Infotainment and Technology: BMW iDrive 9
The 2025 BMW X1 is among the first models in Australia to feature BMW’s new iDrive 9 interface, which now runs on an Android-based operating system.
Key Tech Features:
- BMW iDrive 9 OS: Faster, more intuitive, and supports over-the-air (OTA) updates.
- Voice Assistant (Hey BMW): Improved voice recognition for navigation, climate, and more.
- Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto: Now standard.
- Head-Up Display (HUD): Optional on higher trims.
- Harman Kardon Audio System: Premium option with excellent clarity.
There’s also a full suite of connected services, including remote car access via smartphone, service booking integration, and live traffic updates.
5. Powertrain Options: Petrol, Diesel & Mild Hybrid
Australian buyers will have multiple variants to choose from depending on priorities—performance, fuel economy, or cost.
Available Engines for Australia:
| Variant | Engine | Power | Torque | 0–100 km/h | Fuel Economy (Claimed) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| sDrive18i | 1.5L Turbo Petrol (3-cyl) | 115kW | 230Nm | 9.0s | ~6.3L/100km |
| xDrive20i | 2.0L Turbo Petrol (4-cyl) | 150kW | 300Nm | 7.4s | ~7.0L/100km |
| xDrive20d | 2.0L Diesel | 140kW | 400Nm | 7.7s | ~5.4L/100km |
| xDrive23i M Sport | 2.0L Mild Hybrid | 160kW | 320Nm | 7.1s | ~6.7L/100km |
All variants come with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and feature either front-wheel drive (sDrive) or all-wheel drive (xDrive).
6. Driving Experience: Composed and Comfortable
On the road, the 2025 X1 feels refined and agile. It handles city commutes and long drives with equal ease.
Driving Impressions:
- Steering: Precise, well-weighted for urban and highway use.
- Ride Comfort: Absorbs road imperfections well, especially with adaptive dampers.
- Sport Mode: Quick throttle response and tighter suspension.
- AWD Capability: Handles wet or gravel roads confidently.
Even in base trims, the BMW X1 exudes European composure. It may not be a sports car, but it’s satisfying to drive.
7. Safety & Driver Assistance
The 2025 X1 comes with BMW’s Driving Assistant Professional suite standard across most trims.
Standard Safety Features:
- AEB with pedestrian and cyclist detection
- Lane departure warning
- Lane keeping assist
- Blind spot detection
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Adaptive cruise control with stop & go
- 360-degree surround view camera
- Parking sensors front & rear
- Reversing assistant
ANCAP safety rating is expected to be 5 stars, like its predecessor.
8. Trim Levels and Features in Australia
The X1 is offered in several well-equipped trims. BMW often allows extensive customisation through option packages.
Common Variants:
- sDrive18i: Entry-level, good value for money.
- xDrive20i: Mid-range sweet spot.
- xDrive23i M Sport: Sporty aesthetics and performance upgrades.
- xLine & M Sport Packages: Add styling, wheels, and suspension differences.
You can also spec features like adaptive LED headlights, panoramic sunroof, wireless phone charging, heated front seats, and gesture control.
9. Ownership, Warranty & Running Costs
BMW offers competitive aftersales support in 2025.
- Warranty: 5-year/unlimited km warranty
- Servicing: Pre-paid service plans available for 3 or 5 years
- Fuel Economy: Generally efficient, especially the diesel and mild hybrid variants
- Resale Value: Strong brand image boosts used car pricing
Insurance costs are higher than average due to its premium branding, but resale and low maintenance requirements balance this out.
10. Price Guide for Australia (Drive-Away Estimates)
| Variant | Estimated Price (AUD) |
|---|---|
| sDrive18i | $58,000 – $60,000 |
| xDrive20i | $65,000 – $68,000 |
| xDrive20d | $67,000 – $69,000 |
| xDrive23i M Sport | $72,000 – $75,000 |
Note: Pricing varies by location and optional extras. BMW Australia often includes introductory offers and packages.
11. How It Compares to Rivals
Here’s how the 2025 X1 stacks up:
| Feature | BMW X1 | Audi Q3 | Volvo XC40 | Lexus UX |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tech | Best-in-class | Strong | User-friendly | Basic |
| Interior Space | Excellent | Good | Average | Compact |
| Powertrain Options | Broad | Petrol only | EV & Petrol | Hybrid only |
| Drive Quality | Composed | Firm | Smooth | Soft |
| Price | Slightly higher | Moderate | Moderate | Slightly lower |
The X1 wins in tech and space. It's more expensive, but arguably worth the premium if you're seeking refinement and up-to-date features.
Verdict: Is the 2025 BMW X1 Worth It?
If you're after a small SUV with big luxury credentials, the 2025 BMW X1 ticks nearly every box. It has the presence, performance, practicality, and polish that many rivals can’t match at this size.
Pros:
- Excellent technology suite (iDrive 9 is best in class)
- Refined interior and cabin comfort
- Strong performance across trims
- Versatile boot and rear seat space
- Extensive safety features
Cons:
- Pricing is on the higher end of the segment
- Base model lacks AWD
- Options can get expensive quickly
Final Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
If you're stepping into the luxury SUV segment for the first time, the BMW X1 is a brilliant starting point—offering everything you’d want from a bigger Beemer in a smart, compact form.
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