However, that was not the case with BMW's new X1 sport-ute. The heavily camouflaged vehicles I drove were ready to roll except for a few not-quite right interior trim pieces.

     The X1 is based on the 3 Series platform, which means it rides on a 2,760-millimetre wheelbase. This provides plenty of cabin space (enough for four adults to sit in comfort) and good cargo room - 14.8 cubic feet with the 40/20/40 - split/folding rear seats upright and 47.6 cu. ft. with them flat.

     The cabin is also finished in typical BMW fashion. The materials are off the top shelf and the amenities are there for all to enjoy. If you have ridden in a 3 Series, you're familiar with the X.1. In the tester's case, everything from comfortable 10-way power seats, a harman/kardon audio system and power sunroof to a navigation system and iDrive (lifted from the 3 Series) were all in place.

     Mind you, when the X1 lands in Canada, many of these features will be on the options list. Mechanically, the X1 is very well endowed. The xDrive 23d test vehicles featured a sweetheart of an engine teamed with a six-speed manumatic, the latter better than most in that it allows the driver to shift manually even when in Drive. The engine was a delightful 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel that produces 204 horsepower and a very healthy 295 pound-feet of torque at 2,000 r.p.m.

     When the X1 comes in Canada, it will likely be offered with a 3.0L in-line-six gas engine that pushes 230 h.p. and 200lb-ft of torque at 2,750 r.p.m. A 2.0L four could also be in the cards - in Europe, it produces 170 h.p. and 155 lb-ft of torque. However, if there's any justice, the diesel will be offered as an option as it delivers  the pull of the six with a four-cylinder's fuel efficiency.

     Power is relayed to the road through BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system. Under normal circumstances, it sends 40 percent of the power to the front wheels with the balance going to the rear. If wheel spin occurs, the system can split the power evenly, or it can send all of the power to the rear wheels or any split between the extremes. As with BMW's other xDrive offerings, the X1's system is both seamless and proficient.

     In the ride department, the X1, again, succeeds. It drives more like a station wagon than a typical SUV. To begin with, there is enough compliance in the suspension to deliver a cosseting ride. However, push the X1 harder and the set-up is firm enough to limit body roll.
Vancouver B.C. Car Info
vancouvercarinfo.com/