Initial Thoughts
I don't want to sound like one of those insufferable marketing gurus wearing a power tie, but this BMW X1 warrants the use of a buzz-term: "micro-segmenting."

It's recent introduction to the Canadian market (and not the USA…) means that if you walk into a BMW/Mini dealership now, there are three compact crossovers to choose from all around the $40,000 - $50,000 mark: said X1, the slightly larger X3 and the spunky Countryman S. All offer all-wheel drive, turbocharged engines and measure fewer than five metres in length.

The X1's is the least expensive crossover you can buy with AWD and that make-the-neighbours-jealous BMW badge on its nose. That said, it really doesn't feel like a true luxury machine until you start checking option boxes and pushing its price past the fully-pimped Mini and well into X3 territory.

Decisions, decisions then.

Performance
Click over to the UK or German BMW consumer sites and you'll see the X1 offered with a host of gas and turbodiesel engines. Canada gets only a petrol, 2.0-litre turbo-four. It's a stout heart for this little trucklette though, making 241 horsepower and 258 lb-ft. In truth, it's the eight-speed automatic gearbox that make the most of this engine. Because there are so many gears on offer here, it can micro-manage (there's that 'micro' word again…) the available muscle, either for speed or efficiency.

One of our few frustrations was lag when trying to pass. Because the transmission shifts up, up, up so aggressively, you often cruise in eighth gear, but need second for passing power. Tromp the throttle and you wait for the X1 to drop six gears and spin up the turbo. Start your passing maneuver early.

Otherwise the X1 drives, well, like most other BMWs. It doesn't offer buckets of electric do-dads like the active suspension, etc. on it more expensive Bavarian siblings, but still steers and handle with distinct German confidence.

For those keeping score at home though, it doesn't blast about with the verve of the Countryman or offer the overtly solid substance of the six-cylinder X3.

Ergonomics/Comfort/Quality
Nothing new or adventurous in here. Just a more compact interpretation of the BMW's great SUV interior design seen on the X3 and big 'ol X5. As always, sightlines and ergonomics are top-notch, though learning the standard iDrive screen and its click-scroll control wheel will take some time for virgin user.  

The X1's slightly elevated height means an easy slide into the driver's seat, but make no mistake, once aboard, you face an intimate cabin (not surprising really, given the Bimmer's city-friendly small footprint). Taller drivers should still fit, but with their seat positioned way back, it will seriously cut into rear seat legroom.

Note: that back bench is meant for three, but two fit best.

Talking quality brings up one of our major issues with the X1. In basic trim the interior and plastic just don't exude the luxury feel and finish you expect from a BMW. The AWDer only earns its roundel once options like $1,900 premium leather and a $1,490 Premium Package are added. We say the same for the exterior. White and black are the only no-cost paint colours. More luxe-minded metallic shades like Deep Sea Blue and Marrakesh Brown, etc. are an $800 option, as are the much more handsome 18-inch wheels, part of a $1,500 Sport Package. Loaded up, a X1 can top $50,000.

All is this then bring up that Mini again, which has a four-seat interior that feels of the same size and quality - and the X3, rocking a larger cabin of more polished parts.

Functionality/Usability
For its compact size, X1 has a cargo cave that should be fine for most day-to-day grocery runs, etc. New parents be warned though - do a stroller test before signing off on this Bimmer. The X3, starting at just $3,400 more, has more cargo space. The rear seats in the X1 do split-fold 40/20/40, though.

Aside from the agility of standard xDrive all-wheel drive and frugal average fuel economy of 8.5 L/100 km, the X1 can be outfitted to be a high-tech, safe machine with adaptive headlights, dynamic cruise control and an Advanced Automatic Collision Notification system that notifies EMS when you've had a crash.

Conclusion
Pony up for a X1 and you'll likely not be disappointed. Despite some minor flaws, it is a BMW after all.

That said, if you don't mind the looks (and limited cargo space) of the Countryman note that it can be a fully-loaded, premium machine for ‘just’ $45,000 - and - as mentioned, the larger and only slightly more expensive $41,900 X3 has more people and parcel room, plus six-cylinder power.

As I said above: decisions, decisions…