2014 BMW X1 xDrive28i - Four Seasons Wrap-Up - Automobile
The BMW X1 , by contrast, is closer in look and feel to a passenger car. Overall, though, we were happy with the compromise—compared with other compact crossovers, the X1 is less of an SUV but more of a BMW. One look at the BMW X1, and the proportions tell you that this vehicle doesn’t use the typical crossover architecture. One might point out that a BMW X3 has the same mechanical package, but the BMW X1 is different because it’s so much lower. 8-inch overall height falls midway between an X3 (66. 1 inches) and a 328xi Sport Wagon (56. 5 inches). That low overall height, longitudinal engine layout, and near 50/50 weight distribution are key factors that make the X1 drive like a BMW rather than like a typical SUV. And when we say drive like a BMW, the BMW we’re thinking about is the 3 Series wagon. “The X1’s low-slung proportions and long hood make it look like a 3 Series wagon that has had its height increased by about 25 percent—no bad thing,” said associate Web editor Jake Holmes. ” Getting even more specific, we found that the BMW X1 drives like a previous-generation (2006-2012) 3 Series wagon—which is not surprising, given that the X1 is. Source: www.automobilemag.com
