BMW's smallest SUV and entry-level vehicle is the X1. The current second-generation X1 went on sale for the 2016 model year, riding on a FWD-based platform shared with Mini. The X1 is available with AWD, but it is intended to be more urbane and sporty than all-terrain adventurous. It received a midcycle update last year, which added style and technology features.

The X1's engine is a 2.0-liter turbo-four that produces 228 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. It's joined to an eight-speed automatic transmission with standard FWD and available AWD. In MotorTrend testing, an AWD model posted a 0-60 mph time of 6.8 seconds. EPA-rated fuel economy is 24/33 mpg city/highway with FWD, and 23/31 mpg with AWD.

From the NHTSA, the X1 scores a five-star overall safety rating (out of a possible five stars). The X1 earned the top Good score in all six of the IIHS' crashworthiness tests.

Cargo space measures 27.1 cubic feet behind the X1's second row. With the second-row seat folded down, cargo capacity increases to 58.7 cubic feet.

Front-row headroom is 41.9 inches in the X1, quite a bit more than the 39.0 inches in the Mercedes-Benz GLA. Second-row headroom is 39.4 inches in the X1, again better than the GLA's 38.1 inches. Front-row legroom measures 40.4 inches in the X1, a bit less than the 41.0 inches in the GLA. Second-row legroom is 37.0 inches in the X1, one inch less than the GLA's 38.0 inches.

All X1 trims include an 8.8-inch infotainment touchscreen that features Apple CarPlay, built-in GPS maps, and satellite radio. A head-up display, built-in navigation, wireless charging pad, and semi-autonomous parking assistant are among optional tech features. A seven-speaker audio system is standard, and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon premium setup is available.