Power first!
When it comes to power, the X1M35 has you covered! Thanks to the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, 71 horses are added for a total of 312. Torque remains unchanged at 295 lb-ft from 2000 to 4500 rpm. Pulling the left paddle trippers is a 10-second M Sport Boost function that puts all the switchable drivetrain and chassis elements in the sportiest mode, but doesn’t unlock any additional horsepower.
Notably quicker than the xDrive 28i, the M35i reached 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds. Although powerful, the engine’s response is not too endearing. That is even in spite of a limited-slip differential that is incorporated into the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. What results is that this BMW tends to tug at the tiller like a front-driver. Those moving off from a stop can find it to be jerky.
Within the M35i are adaptive M dampers that are standard, with the vehicle rolling on the optional 20-inch wheels. (19 inches are standard). These wheels are wrapped in Pirelli P Zero PZ4 245/40 rubber. When it comes to the standard sport steering, it is very quick, resulting in a well-controlled ride.
With this power comes the need for more fuel, with the EPA targeting the M35i at 26 mpg combined, which is 2 mpg below the xDrive28i.
The M35i has BMW’s Operating System 9, which also arrives in the xDrive28i this year. The latest, although not the greatest, infotainment interface is within. The interior also features an impressive design featuring quality material, as well as plenty of space to stow. Also available are optional M sport front seats.
On the exterior, extended side skirts, a larger air intake up front and a rear diffuser are notable, while more subtle clues are made clear in a rear roof spoiler, the M logo in the grille and quad exhaust outlets.
High performance and M-inspired, when looking at the “pros,” this SUV is impressive. Its engine is notable and it boasts class-leading acceleration and a wonderful redesign. However, that M-inspired power tugs at the steering and the standard M Sport suspension is also not all it is cracked up to be. Some may say, the upcharge is simply not worth it.
But for those who crave small yet respectable, this X1 M35 fits the bill. And like with anything, this new model for 2024, which is not quite a full-on M X1, has its share of good and bad. The “bad” comes in the form of things like the lack of a dedicated park button for the shifter, less-than-seamless shifts from the X1 xDrive28i’s seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and the optional adaptive M suspension resulting in what is considered by some a bouncy mess.
On the plus side, equipped with the same M suspension and summer tires as the xDrive28i, the M35i’s 0.5-second advantage when accelerating from 45 to 65 mph helps it lap a figure-eight course much quicker, beating the 28i’s 26.3-second lap by 0.6 seconds.
The overall question that should be considered is whether the X1 M35i, starting at a base price of $50,895, is worth the extra money. While the $9,400 premium over the X1 xDrive28i gives the buyer a more desirable fender badge, more standard equipment and a good dose of horsepower, it doesn’t really add up to a more satisfying X1, both on the track or the open road.
Racier than ever, yet with some minor drawbacks, including a hefty price tag, the X1M35 has both clear pros and cons. With hints of M and impressive styling, this SUV may be right up your alley. Buzz worthy? We say yes! Reserve yours today!
