Road test: BMW X1 xDrive20d

When BMW launched its first compact premium SUV, the X1, in 2009, it didn’t feel exactly premium next to other BMW models. And it wasn’t much of a looker.

Despite this, the car sold pretty well and, now that the second generation X1 is with us, things are looking up.

A tad shorter, wider and higher than before, it has a more rugged look and more room inside.

There is a choice of turbocharged two-litre petrol and diesel engines, starting with the entry-level 18d with 148bhp and rising to the 225bhp 25d. The biggest seller will be the 20d with 188bhp.

The 25d may have an air of effortlessness that the 20d can’t quite match but in every important way the 20d is a very capable car, which corners deftly and flat, rides, brakes and steers well and is good off-road when need arises.

All models get electronic tailgate, electronically folding rear seats and sat-nav as standard.

Pitched against models such as the Audi Q3, the X1 is a vastly capable car. My only niggle is that its efficiency makes it just a touch bland. The odd touch of idiosyncracy can make the difference between admiring a car and loving it.

BMW X1 xDrive20d
Top speed: 137mph;
Combined mph: 58.9;
CO2: 127g/km;
Price: £30,630