2017 BMW X1 Review
Price Range: $11,900 - $22,998





+129
Edmunds' Expert Review

by Dan Frio
Correspondent
Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show). As a contributor to Edmunds, he now likes to keep the volume low and the speed limit legal, providing expert car-shopping advice to drivers looking for the perfect match.
Pros
- Strong performance from its turbocharged engine
- One of the best-handling compact luxury crossovers you're going to find
- More rear passenger and cargo room than most other competitors
- High-level interior fit, finish and materials
Cons
- Standard sport suspension can be jarring on rough roads
- Steering feels less precise than some of BMW's sport sedans
What’s new
Fresh from last year's full redesign, the 2017 BMW X1 carries over unchanged.
Vehicle overview
The 2017 X1 is BMW's smallest and most affordable utility vehicle, yet it offers a surprising amount of passenger and cargo space. It delivers trademark BMW quality inside and out, and despite having less power than earlier versions, the X1 still accelerates and handles better than most in its class.
For sale nearby
43 listings
- $11,995great price
- 85,881 miles
- No accidents, 3 owners, personal use only
- 5 Seats, 23 City / 32 Hwy MPG
- Heritage Auto of San Antonio (2 mi away)
- Bluetooth
- Power Driver Seat
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
- USB Inputs
- Power Liftgate/Trunk
Close
Located in San Antonio, TX
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
26 Combined MPG (23 City/32 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: WBXHU7C33H5H35811
Stock: H35811
Certified Pre-Owned: No - Not Priced
- 66,744 miles
- No accidents, 2 owners, personal use only
- 5 Seats, 23 City / 32 Hwy MPG
- Luna Car Center (5 mi away)
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Keyless Entry/Start
- Upgraded Headlights
Close
Located in San Antonio, TX
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
26 Combined MPG (23 City/32 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: WBXHU7C30H5H33305
Stock: LCC15333
Certified Pre-Owned: No
The X1 starts with a front-wheel-drive chassis shared with the Mini Cooper family (BMW owns Mini), a portfolio of small cars known for their nimble handling. From there it gets a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers plenty of power and reasonable mileage thanks to a standard eight-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is also available for those who need extra traction in winter weather.
A sizable cabin makes the X1 comfortable for adults front and rear, while the wide open cargo area has more space than most of the other crossovers in this class. Advanced technology features such as adaptive cruise control, collision avoidance and a color head-up display are also available.
With the growing class of small luxury crossovers, the BMW X1 is still one of the most appealing choices. Competitors including the Audi Q3 and Mercedes-Benz GLA250 have many of the same features, but adults will have trouble getting comfortable in their snug backseats. Both crossovers are also quite a bit slower than the X1. The distinctly styled Lexus NX 200t has a nicely appointed cabin of its own and a good-sized rear seat but offers less cargo space.
The larger and more expensive Acura RDX is better suited to families than the others and remains an excellent value for shoppers who prefer a six-cylinder engine. An X1 can still work for a small family. Its predecessor was more focused on a sporty driving experience, but today's model is far more practical and worth considering if you want a useful luxury crossover with big spirit and a small footprint.
The BMW X1 comes standard with stability and traction control, antilock disc brakes (with automatic brake drying), front side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, front knee airbags, active front-seat head restraints and hill descent control. The BMW Assist emergency communications system also comes standard and provides automatic crash notification, stolen vehicle recovery and on-demand roadside assistance.
Optional safety equipment includes the rearview camera and front and rear parking sensors that are part of the basic Driver Assistance package. The Plus version of that package provides more advanced driver aids such as a front collision warning and mitigation system with pedestrian detection and lane departure warning.
In Edmunds testing, an X1 with 19-inch wheels and all-season tires came to a stop from 60 mph in 109 feet, an exceptionally short stopping distance for a car in this class. The X1 also earned high marks in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety crash tests, posting a top Good score in the small- and moderate-overlap front-impact, side-impact, roof strength and head restraint (whiplash protection) categories.
Notably, we picked the BMW X1 as one of Edmunds' Best Used Luxury SUVs for 2017.
Edmunds' Expert Rating
The BMW X1 offers shoppers in the compact luxury crossover category an intriguing blend of performance, comfort and utility. If you're looking for something that cleverly blurs the line between a low-slung sedan and a high-riding SUV, the X1 is worth a test drive.
Driving
Most shoppers will be happy with the X1's turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It delivers its power in a silky, linear fashion under most driving conditions and returns solid fuel economy relative to its power rating. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and unobtrusively, although you need to set the X1 in Sport mode to feel its full potential.
The previous-generation BMW X1 was known for extraordinary handling and athleticism. You'll still have a blast driving the new, second-gen model in tight turns and long sweeping curves, but generally the X1 feels more like a utility vehicle and less like a sport sedan. Ride comfort takes greater priority on the 2017 BMW X1, though you'll likely want to avoid the 19-inch wheels if you regularly drive on rough roads.
Interior
The current X1 has one of the most elegant cabins in the price range. The dash looks and feels expensive, combining BMW's classic analog gauges with modern technology and high-quality materials, but you'll need to pony up extra for the larger 8.8-inch display to enjoy the full effect.
One option worth the money is the reclining/sliding rear seat. With the seats upright, you have 17.8 cubic feet available for groceries and cargo. Folded down (at the touch of a button), the upgraded rear seats open up 58.7 cubic feet, which is an above-average volume for a small luxury crossover. Owners will also find plenty of small storage slots in the front seat, as well as a fold-flat front seat that makes carrying extra-long items possible.
BMW's iDrive technology interface continues to improve with each iteration. It's easy to use, with an integrated touchpad on the main control dial that lets you scrawl text and number inputs with your fingertip. The menu structure is straightforward, and processing times are fast, helping minimize distraction.
Compare 2017 BMW X1 trim levels
Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart
2017 BMW X1 models
The 2017 BMW X1 is a small luxury crossover that seats five. It's offered in X1 sDrive28i (front-wheel-drive) or X1 xDrive28i (all-wheel-drive) trim levels.
Standard equipment includes 18-inch wheels, foglights, rain-sensing wipers, a power liftgate, dual-zone automatic climate control, a leather-wrapped tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, eight-way power front seats, driver seat/side mirror memory settings, premium vinyl upholstery and a 40/20/40-split folding rear seat. Standard electronic features include BMW's iDrive interface with a touchpad controller and a 6.5-inch screen, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, and a seven-speaker sound system with HD radio, a CD player and a USB input.
Several options packages are available for the X1. The Premium package adds keyless ignition and entry, a hands-free power liftgate, adaptive LED headlights, a panoramic sunroof, power folding side mirrors, front seat power lumbar, and interior ambient lighting. The Luxury package adds real leather upholstery and wood or aluminum trim, while the Technology package is a must for smartphone power users; it packages BMW's integrated smartphone apps, navigation and an upgraded 8.8-inch display screen.
Opting for the M Sport package offers a choice of different 18- or 19-inch alloy wheels, sportier programming for the automatic transmission, a sport-tuned suspension, exterior aerodynamic trim pieces, sport seats, and an M Sport steering wheel with paddle shifters. Note that this package requires that you order performance run-flat tires as a no-cost add-on in lieu of the standard all-season, run-flat tires.
The Driver Assistance package comes in two levels and bundles several safety features. The base package includes a rearview camera, front and rear parking sensors, and an automated system that can parallel park for you. The Driver Assistance Plus package adds a front collision warning/mitigation system with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, automatic high-beams, and speed limit information. The Plus package must be purchased in combination with the adaptive cruise control option.
The Cold Weather package adds heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, although you lose the heated wheel if you also opt for the Driver Assistance Plus package.
One individual option that most X1 buyers should consider is the reclining/sliding (fore and aft) rear seat, which also includes power-folding capability. Other notable single options include 19-inch wheels and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system.
The 2017 BMW X1 is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The engine is rated at 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The X1 is available in either front- or all-wheel drive (the latter includes hill descent control).
In Edmunds testing, an X1 with 19-inch all-season tires accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, making it one of the quicker small crossovers in the segment. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 26 mpg combined (23 city/32 highway). The all-wheel-drive X1 gets 25 mpg combined.

Our BMW i5 M60 Remains a Winner

2026 BMW XM First Look: Only the Top Trim Remains

BMW X3 Cargo Test: How Big Is the Trunk?

BMW i5 M60 vs. Dodge Charger Daytona: Big EVs Battle in Edmunds U-Drags
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2017 BMW X1 sDrive28i 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.53 per gallon for premium unleaded in Texas.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Texas
$163/mo for X1 sDrive28i
X1 sDrive28i
vs
$142/mo
Avg. Compact SUV
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
3.5 out of 5 stars3.5/5Above Average
#11 out of 18 among Luxury Compact SUVs
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the BMW X1 from 2008-2022.$711/yr
vs. $559/yr
for Average Luxury Compact SUV
for Average Luxury Compact SUV
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).1.31x/yr
vs. 1.23x/yr
for Average Luxury Compact SUV
for Average Luxury Compact SUV
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).8.1%
vs. 8.6%
for Average Luxury Compact SUV
for Average Luxury Compact SUV
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
BMW X1 Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(33%)
4(37%)
3(9%)
2(6%)
1(15%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
Bigger than it looks Driving Dynamics Control with
5 out of 5 starsRIchard, 11/19/2016
2017 BMW X1 xDrive28i 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
I recently purchased a 2017 BMW X1 Xdrive. I have previously owned (2) 3 series and (1) 5 series. IMO, the 2017 X1 is the best value for the money of all the other BMW's I have owned. It is not the best handling or planted to the road BMW I've owned, actually it is the least. But, for its class, its absolutely the best handling and value for money. For this class(small CUV), I … actually prefer the front drive platform to give it the best overall use of space. This little CUV(I consider it a cuv instead of SUV), because its actually more like a slightly raised hatchback or wagon but looks like a SUV. The 2017 is slightly revised from the complete remodel in 2016. The 2016 has a standard sport suspension but for 2017 they changed suspensions and made the sport or M suspension available as an option with the M sport package only. I assumed I would like the 2016 better but after test driving the 2016 and 2017 models, I actually preferred the 2017 suspension better. IMO, the 2016 is a little harsh and hard. I think the 2016 having a sport suspension and awd the handling is amazing but a little hard for many people interested in a suv. The 2017 has a more comfortable feeling but still offers terrific handling, especially for its class. I really enjoy the std "Driving Dynamics control" with Eco, comfort and sport settings. In sport it changes the heft and feel of the steering and even though it probably doesn't effect the suspension, some how it does effect the over all feeling of the handling and seems to improve it. I drive all the time in sport setting. I have not driven the FWD only model but I am pretty sure the AWD model provides better handling and a more planted feeling. For those of you that don't want to purchase the M sports package that includes sport suspension, the standard suspension with sport setting and awd still offers great handling in the 2017. This car zips around and goes into tight spots pretty easy. Its actually a small car but feels very big inside and that's because of the front wheel drive platform it offers a much better use of space. The back seats offer plenty room. The cargo space in back is plenty big and also there is space underneath the floor on the back that provides even more storage. There is also plenty of head room in the X1. The quality of the plastics are good, typical Teutonic German simple look but a luxury look and feel to dash. The std front seat probably needs a little more cushion but the standard vinyl seats look good. If you are looking for a small suv(cuv) I think the BMW x1 is clearly the best in its class.
Awesome
5 out of 5 starsDirk Durstein, 02/06/2019
2017 BMW X1 xDrive28i 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
Tremendous vehicle. Great engine with surprising performance. Quality build. Solid and fun to drive. Hints: [1] I keep the transmission in Sport mode. Does not seem to hurt MPG, and much better shift points. [2] Avoid the run flat tires at all costs. They significantly hurt the ride and handling. Replacing them soon. I'll take my chances with a donut spare (losing the extra … cargo space). [3] Opt for the blind spot monitor. Had it on a loaner and it works. [4] Cannot quite believe this car approaches 30 MPG on the highway. Albeit with premium gas. [5] My first SUV. Handling is astounding for a car that sits this tall. [6] I would skip the leather seats, unless you're really into it. The fake stuff is durable and comfortable and looks good. [7] Look into a lease instead of purchase. Got a "lot car" (my Dad would have called it a "demonstrator") with 7,000 miles on it, never titled, full warranty. Take the lowest lease mileage and just plan to purchase or trade at the end of the lease, with no penalty. [8] Get Apple Car Play. It works, too. [9] BMW service (free during warranty) is great. [10] Not sure why anyone would want an X3 or X5 or X7 unless space was an issue and money was no object. The 2WD X1 is the lowest-price BMW in the states, and a great deal for the money. But buy the AWD.
Just turned 40,000 miles and no issues. Zero maintenance cost. BMW replaced windshield at no cost due to imperfections. Looking forward to those new tires; although the run-flats have been quite durable.
Handling much better with new tires - not run-flat.
So, I decided to purchase the vehicle at the end of the three-year lease, for a good price, avoiding mileage charges. (Hint: If you know going into a lease that you will purchase the car at the end of the lease, for the price set in the lease documents, then opt for the lowest mileage possible, lower monthly charge, since you won't have to worry about excess mileage penalty if you buy...). At 61,000 miles, still going strong. Just drove south to Carolina and then Florida, through snow, sleet, freezing rain, storms, with no problems. Still around 30 mpg on the highway with the new tires, close to that around town. I use the "Sport" setting on the transmission, with better handling and performance, little loss of mileage. Still miss the manual shift.
Thinking this will be my last gas-engine car ever. The next one will be full electric.
86K miles and no problems [knocks on wood]. Looking at new BMW EV fleet. Impressive; but not sure I want to be a beta tester. Still enjoying the X-1.
First BMW
4 out of 5 starsHarry, 01/08/2017
2017 BMW X1 xDrive28i 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
We shopped around for quite some time looking for a small/midsize crossover. We test drove literally dozens of vehicles: Mazda, Audi, Benz, Honda, Ford, to name a few. We were between the Volvo XC 60 and the Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. We loved the Volvo but the price at $52K out the door was a little more than we were willing to pay. We were about to settle on the Hyundai (even though it … didn't drive especially well) when the night before I read an article about the X1 and figured we'll go check it out before settling on the Hyundai. To our delight, we loved the way the X1 looked, drove, and its interior is bigger than it seems from the outside. The trunk was the biggest surprise to us with the underneath compartment. We loved the car. We compromised on the base X-Drive model MSRP of $36K but got them down to $33K. We took it home that night and have been enjoying it ever since. Nearly 1 month later, we have gotten a good feel for the X1. Our biggest complaints have to do with some basic features lacking in the base model which we knew going in. The fully loaded Hyundai had all the features I'm talking about i.e. LED Headlights, XM Radio, Blind Spot monitoring, Sunroof, backup camera, adaptive cruise, forward collision warning, integrated sunshades, heated seats, navigation to name some big ones. The X1 does have some of these features if you elect certain packages but the price will quickly climb into the 40's and beyond. Ultimately, we chose the BMW because it drove 100 times better than the Hyundai and at the end of the day, no matter how much you dress up a Hyundai it is still a Hyundai and drives as such. We've been averaging 25MPG combined which is better than all the other vehicles we tried especially with an all-wheel drive. Besides our lack of options our only other complaint really is the suspension. As expert reviewers have stated, the X1's suspension is very stiff and you feel it when you go over speed bumps or bumps in the road. But I still prefer the stiffness over the squishyness of the Hyundai's body roll suspension. Another weird thing our X1 lacks is the ability to control the rear dome light from the rear. It's an odd design flaw but we'll get over it. Ultimately, we are very pleased with our decision.
2017 X1, My 13th BMW
4 out of 5 starsWalter John S, 08/11/2017
2017 BMW X1 xDrive28i 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
This is a small SUV, but it holds me very well, 6'3 255lbs. This small version of an SUV has an comfortable ride, a little stiff for some, but not for BMWers. It handles very very well. Superior acceleration for a 4cyl engine. Good visibility all the way around.This X1 is fully loaded, but a blind spot monitor was not available at any cost. It must be the only BMW without that option. … Why? I think the BSP is a great option, it has saved me a couple of times from cutting somebody off or even an accident that would have been my fault. My wife drives the car mostly, and she loves it. Small enough so that she can park and maneuver around things fairly easily, but large enough to feel like you have some metal between you and the other idiots who drive so nutsy on our local roads. I find the interior of the X1 a little inferior in quality materials from other BMW's, still good stuff, but somehow it seems a little weak for a BMW. The technology and especially the layout of the interior is the best there is, anywhere. We test drove the Audi Q3, Lexus NX, BMW was a clear winner over these two comparable models. I would give this BMW 4.5 stars if not for the lacking BSP. It only gets 4 as is. My 2006 M3 convertible soft top is still my favorite, it gets a 5 along with my Porsche Macan S, the only two cars I have ever given a 5 rating to, and I have owned LOTS of high end cars and SUV's. Cheers............... Update......... 6 months in, very happy with the car. My wife drives it mostly and she loves it. Perfect size and good fuel economy for all the running around she does.
2017 X1 Highlights
sDrive28i
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $33,750 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 26 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $163/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 27.1 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the X1 include:
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
- Post-collision safety system
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestGood
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
People who viewed this also viewed
4.4 average Rating out of 17 reviews. |
Starting at $49,950 |
2.0 average Rating out of 2 reviews. |
Starting at $40,650 |
5.0 average Rating out of 1 reviews. |
Starting at $39,800 |
Related Used 2017 BMW X1 info
Vehicle reviews of used models
- Mercedes Benz Amg GT 2021 Review
- Chevrolet Malibu 2020 Review
- BMW 2 Series 2020 Review
- Nissan Frontier 2021 Review
- Volvo XC90 2021 Review
Shop similar models
Shop used vehicles in your area
- Used BMW X1 2013
- Used BMW X1 2014
- Used BMW X1 2015
- Used BMW X1 2016
- Used BMW X1 2017
- Used BMW X1 2018
- Used BMW X1 2019
- Used BMW X1 2020
- Used BMW X1 2021
- Used BMW X1 2023
Popular new car reviews and ratings
- New Ford F-250 Super Duty
- New Jeep Wagoneer S
- Maserati Grecale Folgore 2025
- 2025 Tesla Model S News
- 2026 BMW 3 Series News
- 2026 4 Series
- 2026 BMW 8 Series News
- New Lexus LC
- 2024 Ford F-350
- Mercedes-Benz AMG GT 2024
Research other models of BMW
- New BMW 5 Series
- BMW X5 2024
- BMW 3 Series 2024
- 2025 X4 M
- New BMW X2
- BMW 4 Series 2025
- 2024 8 Series
- New BMW M5
- New BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe
- 2025 BMW X6
Research similar vehicles
Other models
- New Nissan Z for Sale in Rancho Cordova, CA
- Used GMC Yukon-Hybrid in Yukon, OK 2013
- New Toyota Rav4-Prime for Sale in Tonawanda, NY
- Used Nissan Titan in West Babylon, NY 2024
- Used Saturn Ion in Dacula, GA 2007
- New Subaru BRZ for Sale in Watertown, NY
- Used Mclaren Senna in Colonial Heights, VA 2019
- Used Buick Enclave in Lincoln Park, MI 2025
- Used Lexus Is-350 in Asheboro, NC 2023
- New Ineos Grenadier for Sale in Glendora, CA