BMW.SG | BMW Singapore Owners Community The Ultimate BMW Community – Established Since 2001
BMW fans were not thrilled the first time they learned that the German Automaker was switching the X1 platform from rear-wheel drive to front-wheel drive. After a year of being in the market, the BMW X1 has finally proven that the folks from Bavaria made the right decision. Looking beyond the expectation of being rear-wheel drive, the X1 is actually an amazing family crossover. It has a great look, comfortable seating, luxurious interior, and it is incredibly practical. For those who’ve driven it, it actually handles well and can contend for the best premium crossover in the world. Can it win against the Mercedes-Benz GLA and Infiniti QX30? Check out on a review by Auto Express.
Auto Express considers the BMW X1, Mercedes-Benz GLA and Infiniti QX30 as main competitors in the segment.
Power wise, the BMW X1 is available with a 2.0 liter turbocharged 228 hp four-cylinder engine, an eight-speed Aisin automatic transmission and xDrive all-wheel drive in North America. A number of variations is available in Europe though. There’s the BMW X1 xDrive20d Sport with a 2.0 liter turbocharged 190 hp four-cylinder diesel engine, the same eight-speed Aisin gearbox and all-wheel drive.
The Mercedes-Benz GLA and Infiniti QX30 can pass as twins if not for the brand difference. They’re built on the same platform and both use the same 2.2 liter turbo-diesel engine both have the same seven-speed automatic and both are all-wheel drive. The Infiniti delivers 168 hp while the Merc delivers 177 hp.
In the test, the BMW wins in terms of size, cargo space and practicality with more room among the competitors. It also has the best interior that’s driver-oriented and luxurious. Driving dynamics wise, the BMW X1 is also the best car here. It is the biggest among the three but it still is the nicer car to drive.
The BMW X1 wins this round. The Infiniti QX30 came in second place, and the Mercedes last.
