BMW's X5 has been a real success for the German manufacturer, and the X3 followed on its coat tails, but now the company has recognised the trend for downsizing in the face of environmentally-driven anti-SUV sentiment by producing a baby version in the form of the new X1.
The basic shape of the X1 is in line with its bigger brothers, with a masculine stance and off-road inspired bumpers fore and aft. However, features including the longish nose and tailgate recall the 1-series hatchback more than the X3.
The driving position is also a halfway house between those two stable mates, offering more elevation than a car but not the full lordly perch of a SUV. Interior finishes are excellent and the cabin has a sporty, driver-centric layout.
Road manners are also a variation on both car and off-roader. Though some X1s are rear-drive only, the four-wheel drive versions offer impressive grip, and all exhibit restrained body roll on sharper bends. Lengthy cruises are a pleasure thanks to the accomplished, comfortable ride.
Although most drivers will stick to the blacktop, the X1 is also a truly capable off-road proposition. Thanks to decent ground clearance, even the two-wheel drive models can handle a fair degree of rough going.
No petrol engines are available, but there is a choice of three diesels: the 18d, 20d and 23d, each offering impressive power for a fairly compact car at 143bhp, 170bhp and 200bhp in turn. Our pick is the 20d, which yields a good measure of performance yet excellent economy. All models, though, include BMW's 'green label' EfficientDynamics technology, and set a new standard for SUV emissions. The 18d in rear-drive form is the most frugal of all, emitting less than 140g/km of CO2.
Unlike the less convincing X3, BMW has pretty much got it right first time with the X1, which, priced above the Ford Kuga and VW Tiguan, supplies a new prestige choice in the compact SUV market that will suit those looking to downsize while retaining the presence of an off-road style vehicle.