[beemerlover13]

So I have a '18 X1 msport which has done me good so far. I like that the car is lower than standard SUV's and doesn't feel so "Trucky". I've always been a sedan person until I had a baby and decided to try something a bit different and more cargo space. It hasn't disappointed me, except that when the child seat is rear facing, I can't have a passenger up front as the seat is too close for an average height person to sit in comfortably.

Which brings me to my next question... I currently lease, but was considering purchasing a '19 X3 M40i when my lease is up in September. I'm also contemplating building another X1 which would be a 2022 model probably but with msport suspension.. obviously engine wise the X3 has a lot more power. But space wise how do they compare? Does the X3 m40i handle well? Does it drive like a truck?

[clivem2]

The M40i will blow you away. You need to sit in one and then drive it.

[jakek66]

Originally Posted by beemerlover13

So I have a '18 X1 msport which has done me good so far. I like that the car is lower than standard SUV's and doesn't feel so "Trucky". I've always been a sedan person until I had a baby and decided to try something a bit different and more cargo space. It hasn't disappointed me, except that when the child seat is rear facing, I can't have a passenger up front as the seat is too close for an average height person to sit in comfortably.

Which brings me to my next question... I currently lease, but was considering purchasing a '19 X3 M40i when my lease is up in September. I'm also contemplating building another X1 which would be a 2022 model probably but with msport suspension.. obviously engine wise the X3 has a lot more power. But space wise how do they compare? Does the X3 m40i handle well? Does it drive like a truck?

X3 should always out-handle the X1 as it's platform is RWD-bias shared with pretty much all the rest of the BMW lineup 3 Series on up. Space-wise it's bigger in the areas that matter most, especially with the rear seat. My issue with the X1/X2/2 Series GC was always the width though, they're very narrow cars. I've owned current-gen X3 and 3 Series and driving the X1/2 Series and knowing the X3 is only a little bit more I've always had a hard time justifying to buy one although 99% of what I've ever seen dealers stock were close to base-spec that they have in the loaner fleet and sell for $10-12k off.

I'd also not limit yourself to the X3 M40i. Coming out of an X1 you should fine the 2.0T in the X3 quite quick.

[beemerlover13]

Originally Posted by jakek66

X3 should always out-handle the X1 as it's platform is RWD-bias shared with pretty much all the rest of the BMW lineup 3 Series on up. Space-wise it's bigger in the areas that matter most, especially with the rear seat. My issue with the X1/X2/2 Series GC was always the width though, they're very narrow cars. I've owned current-gen X3 and 3 Series and driving the X1/2 Series and knowing the X3 is only a little bit more I've always had a hard time justifying to buy one although 99% of what I've ever seen dealers stock were close to base-spec that they have in the loaner fleet and sell for $10-12k off.

I'd also not limit yourself to the X3 M40i. Coming out of an X1 you should fine the 2.0T in the X3 quite quick.

What Iike about the X1 is that it doesn't feel big, and handles decent, not like I'm driving a truck, but it lacks power, and the rear like I said is sma especially with a rear facing car seat. I'm gonna eventually need two car seats. One forward facing and one rear facing within the next few years. I want room, but not sacrifice driving easure either. I came out of a rear drive 320i with track handling package so I was spoiled lmao

[chassis]

I think the X1 and X3 are not comparable. The X3 has a noticeably larger interior, particularly in regards to the width between seats/occupants. The X3 uses a north south powertrain that delivers far superior driving dynamics than an east west FWD based unit as found in the X1.

The X3 does not drive like a truck. I say this having the experience of driving body on frame SUVs and trucks up to Class 8.

Power and fuel economy are good on the base X3. Power is very good on the M40i, I have no experience with fuel economy on that model.

The X3 is a far superior vehicle. If it fits your budget, in my mind there is no decision.

[freshxdough]

X1 - FWD based vehicle (transverse engine with trans at front)

X3 - RWD based vehicle (longitudinal engine with trans in transmission tunnel behind engine)

[Ravenous666]

Engine, gearbox and x-Drive are far better components on the X3.

The ZF8HP is one of the best gearboxes available and the X-Drive is a RWD biased all wheel drive.

The new 1 series platform has an Aisin gearbox with hang on all wheel drive. So it's generally a front wheel drive which kicks in the rear axle when the front axle looses grip.
Same principle as cheaper VW/Audis and Volvos.

When you ever drove a X-Drive, you won't accept the "poor mans version" of it in the X1.

The X3 is nowhere near a truck in regrds to handling. It's on of the best handling compact SUVs you can get with crisp suspension and precise steering abilities.

You should go and tets drive a X3 M40i and you will never waste a thought on the X1 again.

If you are considering a preowned X3, you should look for early 2020 models with the new iDrive OS7.

[ramparts]

The X1 is effectively a mini on stilts.
The X3 is effective a 5 series on stilts, but with the "feel" more akin to a 3 series

[thorgal_24]

I would lease or finance X3, either 30i M sport w/DHP or M40i w/ Adaptive M Suspension. We just switched from X2 to X3 M40i, much better for car seat, even our 2 yr old girl happier for the spaces. After a week of driving I think the car is the best fit for a small family, and honestly it’s the sweet spot between BMW cars. We loved both our X2 and 540i, but this is more practical and fun to drive.

[MJE60]

Originally Posted by beemerlover13

So I have a '18 X1 msport which has done me good so far. I like that the car is lower than standard SUV's and doesn't feel so "Trucky". I've always been a sedan person until I had a baby and decided to try something a bit different and more cargo space. It hasn't disappointed me, except that when the child seat is rear facing, I can't have a passenger up front as the seat is too close for an average height person to sit in comfortably.

Which brings me to my next question... I currently lease, but was considering purchasing a '19 X3 M40i when my lease is up in September. I'm also contemplating building another X1 which would be a 2022 model probably but with msport suspension.. obviously engine wise the X3 has a lot more power. But space wise how do they compare? Does the X3 m40i handle well? Does it drive like a truck?

I had a X1 xDrive for 3 years which I replaced with an X3 just over a month ago, there are several very big differences between the cars, so here’s a list
1. The x1 has an Aisin auto box which is inferior compared to the ZF auto in the x3, gear changes are just not as smooth or anywhere as quick. Having driven the X3 I would be reluctant to go back to an x1/x2 for this reason alone,
2. Most of the mechanicals and systems in the X3 are from the 5 series whereas the X1 as the base model has many systems which are budget versions. Examples include a mono KAFAS camera in the x1 but stereo in x3, all driver aids which use KAFAS are more accurate in x3. Acc in the x1 is KAFAS only but includes radar on x3, it is therefore more reliable. Xdrive in X3 is same as all other top models but in the x1, it is a budget version from the Mini. The difference in quality even goes down to type and size of seats. Each difference is subtle but they all add up. When I drove the X1, I was happy, it felt a good quality sav, in the x3 it feels like a premium sav. Test drive the two cars back to back and it all adds up but the X3, internally is not materially bigger, neither in fact is the X5.
3. The x3 is only slightly larger than the X1, a few inches in length, height and width, the extra 40mm width in the cabin is noticeable. If you are slim to medium build and only carrying younger children in the back then x1 is fine size wise, however if you weigh 200lbs+ you may find the seats in X1 Uncomfortable (a common complaint in the forum) and teens/adults will definitely be happier in rear of an x3. I found gas mileage to be very slightly better, about 1-2mpg, in X1 as it is a slimmer lighter car but the difference is small.
4. Because the X1 is lighter, it does generally drive and handle like a saloon car, the X3 probably doesn’t, the X3 handles well but you cannot ignore the extra weight it is carrying. The positive is that the X3 is never twitchy whereas in sports mode the X1 sometimes felt twitchy.
These are just my opinions and but hope they help.

[The.bands]

Had a loaner X1 whilst my X3 was being repaired after someone ran into me.
To me it felt cheaper, louder, harsher, clunky. Couldn't wait to get back into my x3.
If you can afford an X3 then get an X3 would be my advice.

[sae7]

Originally Posted by beemerlover13

What Iike about the X1 is that it doesn't feel big, and handles decent, not like I'm driving a truck, but it lacks power, and the rear like I said is sma especially with a rear facing car seat. I'm gonna eventually need two car seats. One forward facing and one rear facing within the next few years. I want room, but not sacrifice driving easure either. I came out of a rear drive 320i with track handling package so I was spoiled lmao

I had '17 X1 and recently ordered a '21 X3M40i (only test drove it so far)

-X3 M40i ride is waaay more fun/sporty ...as someone mentioned you need to test drive it. The regular X3 30 was ok...felt like a heavier ride than the X1
-In the X3, it definitely feels like you are sitting further up and driving a SUV. X1 always felt like driving a car to me.
-I almost considered getting another X1 since I enjoyed the drive and was comfortable with it , but in the end decided to get the more sportier M40i

[beemerlover13]

Originally Posted by thorgal_24

I would lease or finance X3, either 30i M sport w/DHP or M40i w/ Adaptive M Suspension. We just switched from X2 to X3 M40i, much better for car seat, even our 2 yr old girl happier for the spaces. After a week of driving I think the car is the best fit for a small family, and honestly it’s the sweet spot between BMW cars. We loved both our X2 and 540i, but this is more practical and fun to drive.

My daughter is gonna be 3 this weekend, and I feel like there isn't much room between the front seat and the rear seat in the X1. I've been looking at the m40i since it's debut, but price wise was outta my budget that's why I'm considering pre owned now.. thanks for the great input!

[beemerlover13]

Originally Posted by sae7

I had '17 X1 and recently ordered a '21 X3M40i (only test drove it so far)

-X3 M40i ride is waaay more fun/sporty ...as someone mentioned you need to test drive it. The regular X3 30 was ok...felt like a heavier ride than the X1
-In the X3, it definitely feels like you are sitting further up and driving a SUV. X1 always felt like driving a car to me.
-I almost considered getting another X1 since I enjoyed the drive and was comfortable with it , but in the end decided to get the more sportier M40i

That's exactly what I feel like driving the X1, except I'm sure it doesn't handle anywhere like the m40i. I like the styling of the x1 msport also and that it sits lower than the x3. I appreciate all the great feedback. I'll have to test drive one like a few have mentioned and see for myself.

[beemerlover13]

Originally Posted by The.bands

Had a loaner X1 whilst my X3 was being repaired after someone ran into me.
To me it felt cheaper, louder, harsher, clunky. Couldn't wait to get back into my x3.
If you can afford an X3 then get an X3 would be my advice.

Thanks a bunch for the feedback, will def test drive one!!

[Admiral]

This thread asks a silly question, there is only one answer X3 no ifs no buts an X3 G01

[beemerlover13]

Originally Posted by admiral

this thread asks a silly question, there is only one answer x3 no ifs no buts an x3 g01

💪💪💪👍👍👍

[beemerlover13]

Anyone have the "white" interior? I know it's not white, just forgot the name lol

[Bob in IL]

Originally Posted by beemerlover13

So I have a '18 X1 msport which has done me good so far. I like that the car is lower than standard SUV's and doesn't feel so "Trucky". I've always been a sedan person until I had a baby and decided to try something a bit different and more cargo space. It hasn't disappointed me, except that when the child seat is rear facing, I can't have a passenger up front as the seat is too close for an average height person to sit in comfortably.

Which brings me to my next question... I currently lease, but was considering purchasing a '19 X3 M40i when my lease is up in September. I'm also contemplating building another X1 which would be a 2022 model probably but with msport suspension.. obviously engine wise the X3 has a lot more power. But space wise how do they compare? Does the X3 m40i handle well? Does it drive like a truck?

If you haven't already you might want to post this over on the X1/X2 forum for some additional perspectives.

I had a '17 X1 before our current G01 X3.

[beemerlover13]

Originally Posted by Bob in IL

If you haven't already you might want to post this over on the X1/X2 forum for some additional perspectives.

I had a '17 X1 before our current G01 X3.

Thank you, I did post in there as well. Trying to get opinions from both owners 👍

[Anldyxp718]

I had a 2018 X1 Sdrive since 2017 that I traded in last August for a X3 M40i. It's nicer, roomier and much funner to drive. The X3 M40i is just an all around better car. I'm glad I traded in.

The X1 was a good car but here are some things that I noticed were immediately pleasing improvements in the X3 over the X1. Some are little things;

-Seats- Seats in the X1 were too small. I felt like I was always sitting on the plastic part where the seat controls were located. The X3 seat bolsters are much bigger too.
-More clearance above the cup holders.
-Armrest storage is an actual box with storage, not the little fold down one in the X1.
-Storage compartment above the headlight controls. I keep change and latex gloves in there(pandemic and all).
-Beefier steering wheel. It's more comfortable.
-Interior materials.
-Power-The X1 was okay and had passing-power when you needed it but the M40i and that "grunt" when it up shifts is something else. It's faster than my Cayman and my Macan.

It doesn't drive like a truck at all. Before the X1, I actually dreaded getting a "bigger" car as I was driving a Mini Cooper S at the time and wasn't comfortable with driving anything bigger. That's why I eased into it by getting the X1. Now with the X3, to me it still drives like a car but with great visibility in traffic.

For me, it's the perfect Swiss-army car. I wouldn't get another X1 if you're considering the X3 M40i. The M doodads for the X1 without an engine upgrade are a waste if you ask me. Not sure why the X1 didn't get the X2 M35i's plant. Go test drive one!

*Edit: I actually do have one gripe about the X3 over the X1. The dang thing doesn't have a CD player.

[beemerlover13]

Originally Posted by Anldyxp718

I had a 2018 X1 Sdrive since 2017 that I traded in last August for a X3 M40i. It's nicer, roomier and much funner to drive. The X3 M40i is just an all around better car. I'm glad I traded in the X1.

It doesn't drive like a truck at all. Before the X1, I actually dreaded getting a "bigger" car as I was driving a Mini Cooper S at the time and wasn't comfortable with driving anything bigger. That's why I eased into it by getting the X1. Now with the X3, to me it still drives like a car and visibility is great with the seating height.

For me, it's the perfect Swiss-army car. Go test drive one!

*Edit: I also do have one gripe about the X3 over the X1. The dang thing doesn't have a CD player.

Wow sounds like my exact situation lol. I'm just not a bug truck guy, I've always love bmw and how they handled. I thought bmw was still keeping the CD Ayer though 🤔. I really think I'm leaning towards the X3