BMW X1 xDrive25d x Line

At an indicated 143mph, the needle of the X1’s econometer settles at a steady 17mpg, the throttle planted hard against its kick-down switch. While 17mpg may not sound great, it certainly is for a decently scaled, high-riding, crossover whose full 332lb ft of torque is streaming to all four wheels.

That 143mph is almost flat-out too, and over the 120miles of this test drive the X1’s trip computer reveals indicates 34.4mpg. Which is pretty good, and a number that will improve over here where the opportunities for 140mph autobahn charges are nil. 

This is the kind of performance and economy blend that BMW has developed a fine reputation for since embarking on its Efficient Dynamics mission of combining ever-improving CO2 numbers with useful performance gains.

The new 25d diesel engine in this lightly refreshed X1 is a good example of how incremental improvements can yield performance and economy pairings that look pleasingly unlikely, as demonstrated by the 215bhp and 51.4mpg combined achieved by the upgraded twin-turbo diesel 25d that replaces the 23d.

The improvement is not all down to the motor however, because it’s now optionally paired with an eight-speed transmission whose rangey upper ratios are one reason why this BMW can manage decent economy at 140mph.

The eight-speeder is available all X1s save for the sDrive18i, 16i and 20d Efficient Dynamics, and is the reason for useful economy gains across much of the line-up. 

This eight speed auto – currently unique in the X1’s segment – and the new 25d engine are the most significant alterations to this lightly facelifted crossover, which is identified by a subtly classier exterior. 

Extended bumper body colouring, redetailed lights, a revised air intake and extra faux aluminium for the sills and valances produce the upgrade, although you’ll probably need to be an owner to notice. 

There’s more plastiminium detailing for the interior and a redesigned centre console too, although cabin craftsmanship is not to Audi standards. More important for many will be new trim finishes called x Line and Sport, whose detail finishes create slightly different ambiences inside and out.

As you might hope of a crossover with 215bhp, the xDrive25d gets about with pleasing effortlessness, an impression that would be stronger still were its 2.0 litre diesel slightly quieter. You wouldn’t call it noisy, but its diet is obvious. 

The engine mellows at a cruise when wind noise invades, while at the moderate speeds that tempt the transmission into deploying top for 1200-1500rpm urban ramblings are confirmed by the engine’s faintly vibratory labouring felt in the footwell. But this is a small penalty for the exceptional economy, especially as the ‘box is admirably adept at selecting the right gear for the moment. Jinking the gearlever sideways for sport spurs the driveline into action still more readily, and with no surges or jerks.

The X1 is as much high-riding estate car as SUV, and handles deftly enough for the sport mode to be worth indulging. This four-wheel drive version points well, rolls moderately and provides electric power steering that’s pleasingly linear and even musters some feel. There’s some pliancy in the ride too, although British back-roads will probably turn it slightly choppy.