BMW X1: Small rules

BMW’s product portfolio includes vehicles whose prices climb north of $100,000 without breaking stride. They exist in an exalted sphere, where they draw competition from the likes of Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Land Rover, Jaguar and Lexus. Despite its high-end chops, though, BMW has always done one thing better than anyone else: small. It invented the small sport sedan in 1962 and its 3 Series cars still define the category. Since their 2002 debut, the 3s have steadily grown larger and more luxurious. Too large, say some. Hence, the 2008 debut of the compact 1 Series coupe and convertible. Comfortable, surprisingly roomy and more than quick enough (using engines borrowed from their larger siblings, they are remarkably potent), the 1 Series cars breathed new life into BMW’s entry level. This year, a new 1 Series car — the X1 crossover — debuts. The X1 is a crossover the way gelato is ice cream; it elevates the form, blending surprising utility with a sports car’s demeanor. Two engines are available, both borrowed from the 3 Series. A 240-horsepower turbocharged four powers the rear-drive sDrive28i ($30,699, with destination) and AWD xDrive28i ($33,395). A 310-hp inline six powers the xDrive35i ($39,395). The four is mated with BMW’s new 8-speed automatic, the six with a 6-speed from the last-gen 3. A manual gearbox is unavailable, and only the four can be had with RWD. I tested the six, which is good for a 5.3-second 0-60 mph sprint. A nudge on the throttle in any gear was rewarded with an instant surge of acceleration. Some observers say the four is the better choice. It weighs less than the six and produces just 15 percent less torque. Moreover, the 8-speed transmission can be paired with automatic start/stop, boosting efficiency in city traffic. With two fewer gears, the 6-speed works harder at freeway speeds, with the engine turning about 2500 RPM at 75 mph. The 35i is about a second faster to 60 than the 28i but the perception of speed is said to be equivalent. Both engines earn exemplary EPA ratings, but the x28i’s 23 city/33 highway bests the 35i’x 18/27. The s28i is good for 24/34. The X1 suspension uses the familiar BMW format: MacPherson struts up front, multilinks with trailing arms out back. Eighteen-inch summer tires cling tenaciously to the asphalt before giving way to understeer. Inside, the X1 accommodates four adults of average size. With both rows of seats upright, its cargo area is 50 percent larger than the trunk of a 3 Series sedan. Folding the second-row seats creates a flat load floor and nearly as much space as found in a Honda CR-V. The interior is well equipped and well finished, with minimal flash and ornamentation. All instrumentation and controls are neatly arranged and easily understood. Apart from the welcome burble of the inline six, the cabin is hushed and tranquil. The proven and rock-solid chassis is confidence-producing at any speed. Good as they are, BMW’s megabucks machines have nothing on their new stablemate. It may be small, but the X1 is BMW to its core. Don Adair is a Spokane-based freelance writer. Contact him at don@dadair.com. 2013 BMW X1 xDrive35i Vehicle base price: $30,800 Trim level base price: $38,600 As tested: $48,095 Options: Our tester was fully equipped, with Sport, Cold Weather, Driver Assistance, Premium, Technology and Navigation packages, satellite radio and metallic paint. EPA ratings: 18 city/27 highway Premium unleaded fuel required