The BMW X1 is an upscale subcompact SUV with a sporty personality and standard all-wheel drive. It’s all-new for 2023, with an updated exterior design, a fresh interior with new tech, and more available driver-assistance systems. The 2023 X1 is scheduled to go on sale in late 2022. Pricing details are not yet available, but we expect it to be priced similarly to the 2022 model, which started at just over $36,000.

A variety of powertrains are on offer, including a three-cylinder, a four-cylinder, and two diesels. The four-cylinder gas engine and the diesel engine both offer mild-hybrid technology, and there are also two plug-in hybrid models coming. The X1 comes standard with rear-wheel drive (RWD), but all-wheel drive (AWD) is also available. BMW has not elaborated on release dates in the countries it serves for each powertrain, but we know an electric iX1 is coming. It’s possible buyers in North America will only see one or two of the available powertrains, as BMW typically reserves some configurations for international markets.

BMW says the X1’s clean-sheet exterior design features more rugged bodywork and lower body cladding that gives the SUV an adventurous look. While BMW has amplified the grilles of its other vehicles, including those with already-large noses, the X1’s face remains refreshingly tidy. That said, the ute features fresh exterior trim and a design that gives it a modern, almost futuristic look.

The X1’s cabin is styled on the interior of the new BMW iX electric vehicle (EV). That means a clean, minimalist look with a floating armrest and prominent technology. The SUV comes standard with synthetic leather, but BMW also offers Vernasca leather upholstery. Electric sport seats and a massage function are both available, and BMW says it made improvements to the vehicle’s noise- and vibration-canceling to make the interior more comfortable and serene.

The long list of standard tech features includes navigation, dual-zone automatic climate control, and rain-sensing headlights and wipers. The X1 also gets a 10.25-inch infotainment display and a 10.7-inch driver information display. The system runs on BMW’s latest iDrive 8 infotainment system, and it offers a variety of control options, including voice, touch, gesture, and rotary.

An augmented navigation system is available, which uses the vehicle’s front-facing camera to project an image of the road ahead into the gauge cluster. The X1 then overlays driving directions on the video images for easier navigation. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and an interior camera are all available.

BMW includes forward-collision warnings with pedestrian and cyclist detection as standard. The system can now detect oncoming traffic as well as people and cyclists when turning left. A reverse sensing system is also standard. Additional available tech includes adaptive cruise control, a surround-view camera, a dashcam system, a theft recovery system, a head-up display, safe exit warnings, and more.