The BMW X1 specifications give you two engines to weigh. The petrol is a 1.5 litre turbo with 136 hp and 230 Nm. The diesel is a 2.0 litre turbo with 150 hp and 360 Nm. Both work through a seven speed dual clutch automatic. Petrol power arrives between 4400 and 6500 rpm.
Both variants are sDrive, meaning they drive the front wheels. BMW does not offer an xDrive all wheel drive X1 here. The diesel pulls harder and travels further on a tank. The petrol is quieter and cheaper to buy. Neither is a stripped base model, and both wear M Sport trim. The gearbox shifts quickly in both cars. Check the price of each variant in your city.
Fuel figures favour the diesel by a clear margin. The sDrive18d is rated at 20.37 kmpl on the ARAI cycle. The petrol sDrive18i returns 16.35 kmpl. Heavy traffic and short trips will pull both below the rated numbers. Long highway runs move them the other way. The diesel also carries more torque for overtaking. The frugal diesel suits drivers who cover big distances.
The dimensions keep the X1 compact and city friendly. Length is 4500 mm on a 2692 mm wheelbase. Width is 1845 mm and height 1630 mm, giving a tall, upright cabin. Ground clearance stands at 170 mm and the tank holds 51 litres. Boot space is 476 litres and seating is for five. The cabin gives five adults reasonable room. See the colour options to finish the choice.