Used BMW X1 for sale near Brighton

CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.4 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.7%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.4 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 800
Average Price: Around £17,000

BMW X1 Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Beautifully appointed interior	Ride slightly firmer than some rivals
Brilliant on space and practicality	Higher-end models are expensive
Pleasant to drive	Too much desirable kit costs extra

Quick Summary

The BMW X1 is the third generation of BMW's family crossover SUV. It's grown significantly, now longer than a Nissan Qashqai, despite being the entry-level SUV in BMW's range. It offers a broad range of mild hybrid, plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and electric powertrains, with no manual gearbox option. The core range includes two petrol-electric PHEVs with around 55 miles of EV range, two diesels, and two petrols, all featuring automatic transmissions.

The X1 is impressively roomy and versatile, capable of accommodating two tall adults or three children in the rear, with a generous 540-litre boot that surpasses rivals like the Audi Q3 and Volvo XC40. Its interior is beautifully appointed, featuring plush materials and a clean, modern design, especially in M Sport trim. While the ride can be firm at low speeds, handling is good, offering a satisfying and confident drive, making it one of the best all-rounders in its class.

Best for: Families needing space and practicality, those looking for advanced powertrains including PHEVs, drivers who appreciate a quality interior and confident handling.

Not ideal for: Buyers prioritizing a very soft, pliant ride at all speeds, those on a strict budget for higher-end models, or those who dislike having key luxuries as extra-cost options.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the X1 if: You're looking for a practical and roomy family SUV with a premium interior, a wide range of efficient powertrains (including excellent PHEVs), and satisfying handling.

Consider alternatives if: You prefer a softer ride, are on a tight budget for a premium SUV, or want more standard features without resorting to expensive option packs.

Competitive Position: The BMW X1 stands out in the competitive compact SUV segment as a strong all-rounder. It offers excellent practicality, a high-quality interior, and a diverse engine lineup, including highly desirable plug-in hybrids with good electric range. While some rivals might offer a more compliant ride or more standard equipment for the price, the X1's confident driving dynamics and overall refinement make it one of the top choices for families seeking a premium and versatile SUV.

Read our full BMW X1 Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from February 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.