BMW has rearranged the X1’s lineup for 2018 and now offers five distinct trims—base, Convenience, M Sport, Premium, and M Sport Premium—each with more features than the last. Only a few features are still offered as standalone options on non-Premium trims, including front and rear parking sensors ($800), LED headlamps ($950), Navigation ($950), and heated seats and steering wheel ($550). Some new features join the party for 2018; a backup camera is now standard, as is BMW’s ConnectedDrive in-car concierge service. Apple CarPlay is now optional ($300) as is onboard Wi-Fi with wireless device charging ($500). A new color—Sunset Orange Metallic—replaces Chestnut Bronze.
Pros Sweetheart engine and transmission, athletic chassis, capacious cargo hold.
Cons Unsupportive standard seats, slow infotainment system, subtle exterior styling.
The 2018 BMW X1 is a compelling crossover pick for a budget BMW buyer who can’t do without a roundel.
pros Subtle but good looks Responsive turbo-4 Good 8-speed automatic Relatively good value in base guise Spacious cargo area
Cons Options add up quickly Front seats aren’t the best seats Pricey advanced safety package No manual transmission?
The 2018 BMW X1 is a five-seat compact SUV in the luxury segment. It comes in two versions: the front-wheel-drive X1 sDrive28i and the all-wheel-drive X1 xDrive28i. From there, you have two directions to go: xLine Design or the sportier M Sport Design. After that, you can add various option groups that BMW calls tiers. The M Sport Design already comes with the Convenience group, which is optional on the xLine Design. Afterward, packages and stand-alone options are available based on which initial design and group you select.
PROS Strong and responsive turbo engine Sharp handling makes it fun to drive Plenty of rear passenger and cargo room High-quality materials and fit-and-finish
CONS Not particularly quiet on the highway Standard sport suspension may be jarring on rough roads
The 2018 Hyundai Sonata receives a much-needed injection of style.
Pros More stylish than before Relaxing, comfortable ride quality Flexible engines Android or Apple, your interface is OK Roomy interior
Cons Light on personality Sport isn’t all that sporty Limited customization options Interior a little downmarket
one might consider Hyundai’s refreshed 2018 Sonata the brand’s rerelease of its seventh-generation mid-size sedan that was launched for the 2015 model year. That Sonata was a nice enough family four-door that failed to catch on with the buying public in the same way that its slinkier predecessor did; Hyundai is hoping this updated version will climb higher up the sales charts.
Pros Quiet cabin, easy-to-use infotainment system, standard blind-spot monitor.
Cons Dynamically dull, 1.6T engine limited to Eco trim, active-safety features not available on all models.
The 2018 Hyundai Sonata had been restyled inside and out and receives updates to its suspension and steering aimed at improving ride quality, response and feel.
PROS Solid list of standard features and tons of available tech Spacious interior accommodations and generous trunk space Excellent user interface receives a more upscale redesign 10-year powertrain warranty offers peace of mind
CONS No options available on Edmunds' recommended Eco model Slightly less rear legroom than the segment leaders Top turbocharged engine trails performance of its competitors Lackluster power from base engine
