[bluejay_el]

New member here. Im still undecided on whether to get an X1 or X3. Hoping to get a lot of feedback before I place my order.


Planned spec:

X1
xDrive28i, M Sport, Le Mans Blue Metallic, Beige Leatherette, Light Fineline Wood Trim, Driver Assistance Package, Technology Package, Lighting Package, Heated Front, Seats Panoramic moon roof. MSRP $42,825

vs.

X3
xDrive28i, Deep Sea Blue Metallic, Beige Leatherette, Fineline Wave Wood Trim, Driver Assistance Package, Lighting Package, Technology Package, Heated Front Seats, Panoramic moon roof, x-line exterior trim package. MSRP $49,025



Things that I like (which are also the things that I don't like on the other brand):

X1
- Price - $6,200 difference on the spec that I want between the two
- It comes with Le Mans Blue (have to get M Sport just to get the color)
- MPG


X3
- HUD!
- Stance of an SUV (specially ground clearance and height)
- Power Liftgate
- Stirring
-Cup holder not in the way when adjusting armrest (huge factor if you're not that tall and you drink coffee a lot!)



Stuff about myself and my needs:
- Replacing my 2008 Honda Accord Coupe
- First luxury car purchase
- Single guy
- Dog (husky) Owner (he'll take the rear seat or the cargo area)
- Need space for the fold-able dog crate (if i bring him with me on a vacation)
- Need compartment for snowboard
- Need compartment for bulk purchases/items (furniture, yard and garage stuff)
- Uses local road to work (8 miles each way)
- Travels out of town/state few times a year
- Need to deal with MI road condition
- Need something that drives good on snowy condition



Appreciate all the feedback

[okjohnho]

My fiancee and I have an X1 and a f30 335i, and I must say I actually really enjoy the X1 because of the combination of small size and utility. If you don't need something big, an X1 is perfect for you and the dog.

It's better in mileage (I'd imagine it's a little lighter than the X3), a hair quicker, and will save you a couple grand.

The space in the back is ample with the seats folded down, not for huge dining tables or anything but it gets the job done with most things we need to haul (that doesn't require a truck at least).

Unless you're looking for more road presence, you still get the SUV feel inside the X1.

BTW, if you're a stickler for sound, I'd highly recommend getting the Harman/Kardon upgrade. The stock speakers on the X1 leave a lot to be desired.

[lmaleke]

Originally Posted by bluejay_el

New member here. Im still undecided on whether to get an X1 or X3. Hoping to get a lot of feedback before I place my order.

Stuff about myself and my needs:
- Replacing my 2008 Honda Accord Coupe
- First luxury car purchase
- Single guy
- Dog (husky) Owner (he'll take the rear seat or the cargo area)
- Need space for the fold-able dog crate (if i bring him with me on a vacation)
- Need compartment for snowboard
- Need compartment for bulk purchases/items (furniture, yard and garage stuff)
- Uses local road to work (8 miles each way)
- Travels out of town/state few times a year
- Need to deal with MI road condition
- Need something that drives good on snowy condition

Appreciate all the feedback

I'd recommend you to check out the F30 wagon (either a 328xi or a 328d xdrive) though I understand that wagon isn't everyone's cup of tea in the States..

[bimmerjph]

Personally, I'd go X1. Because you still get most of the BMW SUV Utility plus its better to drive than an X3.


As stated above, a Wagon would be my first choice.

[RobertRO]

+1 for the Wagon.

I may get lots of flame for this, but frankly I don't understand why would anyone buy an SUV/SAV from BMW, unless he drives regularly on some really bad roads. Mind you, that doesn't also include off-road, where the BMW X1/X3/X5/X6 family is actually quite poor at.

If one needs space, that's where the BMW station wagon (or Touring) shows its value. Don't confuse the Touring with the fugly Grand Turismo...
The Tourings give you the traditional BMW driving feeling, plus the extra space and functionality you may need.

If where you live there are many months of heavy winter with a lot of snow, then a 328i xDrive Touring may be the best option. If snow is scarce, then probably you'd like to go for a 335i sDrive Touring. With proper winter tires, a modern rear-wheel-drive BMW can cope perfectly with a "standard" winter. Bonus: the 335i actually comes with a proper engine.

[Red Bread]

Remember that the X1 is a tall E91 wagon, not an SUV. We drove the F30 sedan and the X1 and fully intended to wait for the F31, but didn't enjoy the F30 steering, the need for a very specific set of options to make the suspension and steering feel just okay and the large size of the F30. We did consider the X3 too, but since the F30 was too big, the F25 was just more of that. The X1 fits our needs great, but the OP does sound like a larger vehicle may be a better fit for them.

[teezee]

Is it correct that you can't get Cold Weather package and M Sport on XI? I see you only have heated seats in your option list.

[bluejay_el]

Originally Posted by teezee

Is it correct that you can't get Cold Weather package and M Sport on XI? I see you only have heated seats in your option list.

Yes, you cant have the cold package on an M Sport. I actually wonder if not having headlight washers on xenon lamps will be a problem during winter

[ENDY03]

Here's what I (and some of my friends) think... no offense people
X1 is poor man's X3
X3 is poor man's X5
X5 is poor man's X6

Using this logic, X1 is for the poorest man's car of all poor men.. Hence go with X3

If $$ is an issue, then you might be better of getting an MDX instead of an X1..

[bluejay_el]

Originally Posted by ENDY03

Here's what I (and some of my friends) think... no offense people
X1 is poor man's X3
X3 is poor man's X5
X5 is poor man's X6

Using this logic, X1 is for the poorest man's car of all poor men.. Hence go with X3

If $$ is an issue, then you might be better of getting an MDX instead of an X1..

...and they say BMW drivers are jerks

[Chihuahua]

F30 touring. X1 is the answer to a question no one asked IMO.

Good luck with whatever car you choose.