Audi Q3 vs. BMW X1 - Auto Express Comparison Test!

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and crossover models have streamed on to the market over the past couple of years, leaving the BMW X1 looking a little out of date.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.

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.
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PQ40 - 11/26/2012 3:50:53 PM

+2 Boost

Hey germanut how come you didnt post the last 4-5 Autoexpress comparos where Audi came in last? Lol.

chewy - 11/26/2012 6:40:42 PM

-1 Boost

You should stay away from the next copy of Road & Track then.

PQ40 - 11/26/2012 7:00:47 PM

+2 Boost

..think you missed the point of my comment.

chewy - 11/26/2012 9:15:53 PM

+1 Boost

How come you didn't post the last three where the S6, S7, S8... Somewhat unrelated but Auto Express seems to place too much emphasis on the fees associated with the cars they test, can any British readers on here explain those. Do they really play such a big role in picking one car over another?