“I like my vehicle but it's missing basic options like remote start Towing capabilities does not read text messages or display them unlike cheaper brands almost half the price have all them features and all the ones I already have”
2020 BMW X1: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2020 BMW X1 gets a mid-cycle refresh led by updated front and rear styling and a larger standard 8.8-inch touchscreen navigation system. It keeps the same 228-hp turbo engine and two-trim lineup.
About the 2020 BMW X1
2nd generation (2016-2022 U.S.), mid-cycle refresh for 2020.
BMW positions the X1 as a small luxury SUV that still feels like a BMW from behind the wheel. The core appeal is a roomy cabin and useful cargo space in a compact footprint, paired with a lively turbo engine and sharper road manners than many rivals. In plain terms, it is the X model for shoppers who want everyday SUV usefulness without giving up easy parking, quick responses, and a more car-like driving feel.
The sDrive28i is the everyday, front-wheel-drive X1, while the xDrive28i adds all-wheel drive for better traction in poor weather. Both have a 228-hp turbo four-cylinder engine, Apple CarPlay, a power tailgate, front and rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, and a driver-assistance safety suite.
What changed, by category
Styling
BMW refreshed the front and rear with a larger connected kidney grille, revised bumpers, tinted taillights, and new wheel designs. New contrast stitching updates the cabin.
Tech
The standard navigation touchscreen grows from 6.5 to 8.8 inches.
Powertrain
The 8-speed automatic receives revised gearing, and a new electronic gear selector replaces the previous shifter.
2020 BMW X1 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 8-Spd Adaptive w/Steptronic, Sport & Manual Modes | Automatic, 8-Spd Adaptive w/Steptronic, Sport & Manual Modes |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 24 mpg | 23 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 33 mpg | 31 mpg |
| Horsepower | 228 hp | 228 hp |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft | 258 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3000 lb | 3000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 58.7 cu-ft | 58.7 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 37 in | 37 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Hill Descent Control | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Park Assist | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2020 BMW X1?
The biggest change is a mid-cycle refresh with revised front and rear styling. The most noticeable updates are the larger connected grille, redesigned bumpers, tinted taillights, and new wheel designs.
Does the 2020 BMW X1 have a larger touchscreen than the 2019 model?
Yes. The 2020 X1 has a standard 8.8-inch touchscreen navigation system, replacing the 2019 model's 6.5-inch screen.
Did the 2020 BMW X1 get a new engine?
No. The 2020 X1 keeps its 228-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, though BMW revised the gearing in its 8-speed automatic transmission and added a new electronic shifter.
Did the 2020 BMW X1 trim lineup change?
No. The lineup still consists of the front-wheel-drive sDrive28i and all-wheel-drive xDrive28i, and both receive the 2020 styling, screen, transmission, and shifter updates.
Is the 2020 BMW X1 a major redesign?
No. The 2020 X1 is a mid-cycle update rather than a full redesign, so its basic structure, engine, and trim lineup carry over while the styling and selected cabin features change.
2020 BMW X1 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2020 BMW X1.
4.2
2020 BMW X1
(207 reviews)
“The BMW X1 handles well driving. The back seat does have limited room but the car has the feeling of being spacious despite the small size. Overall it's a beautiful car.”
“Wonderful car that is practical and sporty. Great car mileage, roomy and comfortable with excellent safety features.”