This summer’s 2013 BMW X1 sDrive28i press loaner still makes me smile when looking at the photos.
As my first week-long loan from BMW, the pressure was on to a) write a brilliant review and b) not hurt the car in any way!
The X1 is a hilarious riot to drive in 28i sDrive configuration, which denotes rear-wheel-drive versus the optional xDrive.
The turbo-charged engine is zingy and potent, with a broad and low torque plateau and the exceptional ZF eight-speed automatic handling changes.
The test car included EcoPro mode and automatic stop/start for stoplights and traffic. EcoPro mode really impressed with its mileage savings, but the stop-start is almost a deal-breaker in general.
Within iDrive, its automatic engagement can likely be disabled – along with myriad other electronic personalization settings from which owners can choose. I particularly enjoyed the M Sport spec’s seats with the slide-out base extension and a chunky steering wheel.
The LED lighting accents are also pretty delightful, with illumination for all the door handles and LED-lit puddle lights as you blip the doors open. It is classy, modern and charming.
The X1 felt right at home with mega-buck sports cars during its week here.
It accompanied us on a McLaren 12C ride-along at local BlackHawk Farm Raceway, where the people are charming and the course is a hoot.
Enjoy these high-res images of this beauty, which is the top-level M Sport package including body-color sills and less chrome than the base, $33,000 X1.
BMW X1 sDrive28i M Sport – Exterior Gallery – Blackhawk Farms
BMW X1 sDrive28i M Sport – Exterior Gallery – Canoes Launch
BMW X1 sDrive28i M Sport – Interior Gallery
Tom Burkart is the founder and managing editor of Car-Revs-Daily.com, an innovative and rapidly-expanding automotive news magazine.
He holds a Journalism JBA degree from the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Tom currently resides in Charleston, South Carolina with his two amazing dogs, Drake and Tank.
Mr. Burkart is available for all questions and concerns by email Tom(at)car-revs-daily.com.