Skip advert
Advertisement
Car group tests

BMW X1 vs Audi Q3

BMW has waded in with a revised X1, but can it beat the Audi Q3? We put the pair head-to-head...

New compact SUV and crossover models have streamed on to the market over the past couple of years, leaving the BMW X1 looking a little out of date. So the company has made a series of revisions in an attempt to bring the car back into contention.

The changes aren’t exactly radical, though. There’s now the option of an eight-speed automatic gearbox in place of the old six-speeder, while two new trim levels – xLine and Sport – join the line-up. All X1s also get subtle styling alterations and a slightly revised interior.

Advertisement - Article continues below

There’s a choice of 18d, 20d and 25d diesel engines, with all but the flagship 25d offered in either two or four-wheel drive.

We test the 141bhp xDrive 18d 4x4 in xLine trim. It faces the classy and desirable Audi Q3. The 138bhp 2.0-litre TDI quattro version in flagship S line spec costs £1,110 more than the BMW. The question is whether the revised X1 can topple one of our current class favourites.

Verdict

BMW has been on a roll of late. The 1, 3 and 5 Series are our current favourites in their respective sectors, while the new 3 Series Touring recently took victory in its first test. Unfortunately, minor updates to the X1 haven’t done enough to change our opinion that it’s the weakest car in the range.

Its dated cabin, awkward looks and heavy steering all disappoint. The X1’s flaws are even more obvious when pitched against the Audi Q3, which is a well rounded and desirable package.

It isn’t exciting and it’s far from revolutionary, but a first-rate cabin and smart looks mean it feels just like a scaled-down Audi Q5, while the driving experience strikes a careful balance between comfort and handling. It also has a bigger boot and more passenger space than the BMW.

Still, the X1 isn’t all bad. The 18d engine is refined, punchy and clean, while taut body control and secure grip mean that, aside from the heavy steering at low speeds, the BMW is pretty good to drive.

Also, the new xLine trim is relatively well equipped and it’s cheaper to buy than the S line Q3. The pair returned identical fuel consumption, but the BMW is cleaner. Yet the Audi has better residuals, and is also easier to live with, roomier and more desirable than the X1. It’s a clear winner.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

BMW X1

BMW X1

RRP £36,920Avg. savings £6,435 off RRP*Used from £28,395
BMW X2

BMW X2

RRP £43,255Avg. savings £5,760 off RRP*Used from £10,990
BMW iX1

BMW iX1

RRP £43,305Avg. savings £9,607 off RRP*Used from £27,899
Mercedes GLB

Mercedes GLB

RRP £38,340Used from £21,495
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Leapmotor B10 2025 review: budget brand's best EV yet
Leapmotor B10 - front action

New Leapmotor B10 2025 review: budget brand's best EV yet

The new Leapmotor B10 is a serious player in the small electric SUV sector, boasting good range, plenty of kit and a tempting price tag
Road tests
14 Oct 2025
400bhp family SUVs have become common in the EV era, but they're completely pointless
Opinion - Volvo XC40 Recharge

400bhp family SUVs have become common in the EV era, but they're completely pointless

Editor Paul Barker thinks new car firms don't have heritage behind them, so power figures and straight line speed are an easy way to grab headlines
Opinion
15 Oct 2025
New Toyota C-HR+ 2025 review: electric SUV struggles for space
Toyota C-HR+ - front

New Toyota C-HR+ 2025 review: electric SUV struggles for space

The new Toyota CH-R+ has plenty of plus points, but ultimately fails to stand out from the crowded family EV class
Road tests
15 Oct 2025