BMW X1: filling a niche
The BMW X1 is an exercise in marketing strategy, designed to fit in below the X3 and X5 off-road 4x4s and provide an alternative to those considering a 1-series. If you’ve been wondering whether you should take the plunge on a BMW X1 finance deal, you should know as much as possible about this little ‘Off-Roader’.
BMW has spotted a demographic of customers considering both small executive cars, such as the 1-series, and larger cars offering an off-road style driving position and commanding road presence, such as those on offer by BMW’s X-range of cars.
By combining elements of the X-range with the size of the 1-series, BMW has produced a small, niche off-road vehicle with all the quality and kudos always associated with the Bavarian brand. But will a BMW X1 lease deal secure you the right car, one that actually fills a void that no other car can?
A BMW X1 leasing plan will land you a physically imposing car. This is only right and, considering recent fashion trends, BMW would be missing a trick by not designing the X1 to look and feel like a proper, capable off-road car. However, whilst you can opt for a BMW X1 leasing plan on the 4×4 version, it’s best not to set your off-road expectations too high.
If you go for a BMW X1 lease deal, you’ll be getting a car that features a stiff suspension set-up, large wheels and skinny tyres – all of which equates to limited off-road ability. However, as most X1 drivers probably won’t be tackling tough terrain on a regular basis, this shouldn’t be too much of an issue.
On the road, the X1 will no doubt keep you happy. Although it rides with some stiffness, this is the quality that contributes to its excellent handling characteristics – and the X1 certainly fills a niche that not many other cars can compete with.
BMW X1: a big off-road hatchback
The BMW X1 was launched in the UK in 2009 to a warm reception. Whilst the ‘X’ range has enjoyed success in the UK, largely thanks to the family off-road car the X5, the X3 and X1 models have tried to re-write the rule book for smaller, taller, off-road cars.
What’s more, a BMW X1 lease deal or BMW X1 finance package makes the car surprisingly affordable, particularly for a ‘premium’ brand like BMW.
Of course, the real question is: if you decide to go for a BMW X1 lease deal, will you be getting a car that brings the big, off-road spirit of the X5 to you, but in a smaller, more affordable package?
The short answer, you will be glad to hear, is yes. Even moreso than the X3, a BMW X1 leasing plan will get you a high-riding, capable car that handles well – and boasts great style and looks. Plus, with the four-wheel drive ‘Xdrive’ transmission, you’ll be getting a capable off-road car as well.
Admittedly, there is stiff competition from rivals like the Ford Kuga, which is slightly cheaper. And, in spite of the X1′s considerable versatility and build quality, the interior quality is slightly off-pace with the opulence you might typically expect from BMW – which might make a difference to your driving experience, if you’re expecting a luxurious cabin.
In reality, the X1 is more like a large hatchback than a small 4×4. Whilst it does have the off-road ability of a 4×4, its boot space and rear passenger space are compromised as a result.
In exchange for this, however, you get sporty, agile handling and great value, especially for a BMW – all of which makes a BMW X1 leasing plan a highly attractive prospect.