The 2022 BMW X1 is an extra-small luxury SUV. In BMW’s lineup, the X1 is smaller than an X3 but offers more practicality than the sportier-styled X2.
It comes standard in front-wheel drive and offers optional all-wheel drive in the higher trim levels. Our editors have praised the current 2022 BMW X1 for its fun-to-drive demeanor and excellent cargo space and passenger accommodations.
The X1 goes into 2022 with no significant changes. It did receive a mid-cycle refresh in 2020, which gave it a face-lift in the front and rear, plus a larger infotainment screen.
There’s a strong chance that the 2022 BMW X1 will be fully redesigned in 2023, so that might be something to consider if you enjoy the feeling of having the latest body style in your SUV.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
There is only one engine and transmission pairing for the 2022 BMW X1: a silky 228-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The turbo four provides plenty of peps as well as good fuel efficiency.
In our all-wheel-drive test vehicle, we managed a 6.3-second 60-mph time, which makes it one of the quicker entries in this class. Front-wheel drive is standard.
The optional all-wheel-drive system favors the front wheels, although up to 100 percent of the engine’s output can, for brief moments in low-traction scenarios, flow to the rear.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The 2022 BMW X1 boasts competitive fuel-economy ratings for its class, although the Mercedes-Benz GLA250 beats it in both city and highway EPA numbers.
And the all-wheel-drive X1 we tested delivered just 29 mpg on the highway, 2 mpg short of its EPA rating. For more information about the 2022 BMW X1’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The 2022 BMW X1‘s interior is nicely appointed with mostly premium materials. But poke around and you’ll find evidence of cost-cutting. The glove box door is as flimsy as a plastic lunchbox, and the bin is hidden under the front seat, while useful, feels as if BMW bought it in bulk from a dollar-store fire sale.
The cockpit has a driver-focused layout, reinforcing the X1’s sporty personality. Facing the driver is a businesslike gauge cluster that looks elegant and is easy to read at a glance. The driving position is great, although the steering-wheel adjustments could use more range of motion in both angles and reach.
The cargo area is carpeted, trimmed in chrome, and cavernous. We managed to fit seven carry-on cases behind the second row and 19 total with the rear seat folded.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The 2022 BMW X1‘s standard infotainment system is intuitive and easy to operate while on the go but perhaps a little dated. The 8.8-inch iDrive system comes with in-dash navigation, Apple CarPlay capability (Android Auto is not offered), Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, SiriusXM satellite radio, a USB port, and a seven-speaker audio system.
A 12-speaker Harman/Kardon sound system is optional. To control all these things, BMW provides a rotary knob on the center console that fits comfortably beneath the driver’s right hand. The controller is surrounded by shortcut buttons for phone, nav, and other functions.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Basic driver-assistance features are provided at no cost, but more advanced technology will require adding option packages. For more information about the 2022 BMW X1’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
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