The BMW X1 is a compact SUV with unmistakable BMW styling. This makes it an appealing offering for those looking for a user-friendly vehicle that resembles a big-ticket BMW. What would a sporty BMW be without some form of convenience and entertainment though?
We look at how the BMW X1 compares to the Lexus UX and Mercedes-Benz GLA when their infotainment systems come under the microscope.
BMW X1 sDrive20i Sport Line Auto - R612 104
Our rating: 3/5
With an impending facelift and update marked to take place before the end of the year, the current BMW X1 will soon be receiving the latest version of BMW's iDrive system, iDrive 7.0. As we have not had a chance to sample the execution in the forthcoming model, we look at the system in the current model, the F48.
Employing a 6.5-inch display, the BMW X1 features the menus systems found in older BMW models. There are still too many sub-menus with certain settings tucked away in obscure locations. Some time is required to familiarise oneself with the functionality.
Inputs can be made using the multifunction steering wheel or familiar iDrive controller in the centre console. The rotary dial allows for quick navigation between the tiles and shortcut buttons flank the dial for frequently accessed menu items. A row of buttons below the unit on the centre fascia allows for quick track skipping or station selection.
The system accepts CD, USB, Bluetooth and AUX input but does not feature Apple CarPlay or Android Auto as standard. Navigation is also standard in the BMW X1.
Lexus UX200 EX - R602 000
Our rating: 1/5
The Lexus UX uses the Lexus Premium Infotainment system which makes use of a 7-inch TFT full-colour display. Input for this system comes in the form of Lexus' touchpad system which can best be likened to the touchpad found on a laptop. While this is great in theory, its practical application is fatally flawed, despite the haptic feedback from the pad itself. Cursor movements and selections will create a vibration through your finger. This is intended to help identify aspects of the system for use when driving but in reality, the interface is too complex and frustrating to use - all inputs are best done when the vehicle is stationary. It's the Achilles heel of the Lexus product range.
The 8-speaker audio system allows for USB, Bluetooth and AUX input and features Apple CarPlay but not Android Auto. Voice control is standard as is navigation.
Menu systems are complex and one has to spend a considerable amount of time familiarizing oneself with the hierarchy in order to get the most out of the system.
Mercedes-Benz GLA200 AMG Line Auto - R577 710
Our rating: 2/5
The Mercedes-Benz GLA200 is equipped with a simplified version of the Mercedes-Benz COMAND. It uses a 7-inch TFT screen with an 8-inch screen an optional extra. The graphics are not of the highest quality and response from the system is slower than the competition.
System inputs come in the form of a simplified rotary controller with two shortcut buttons above the dial. The multifunction steering wheels also allows for basic inputs such as volume control and track skipping.
The audio system supports CD, USB, AUX and Bluetooth inputs and is equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Navigation is not standard but is available as an optional extra.
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