BMW’s M Sport and xLine trims are popular choices on its SUVs. The M Sport treatment gives a sporty look that’s in line with BMW’s ‘ultimate driving machine’ tag, while the xLine gives you rugged 4x4-inspired styling.
But is the difference between the BMW X1’s M Sport and xLine trims just cosmetic? Or is there another reason to choose one over the other? Let’s find out.
BMW X1 M Sport vs xLine compared
| BMW X1 M Sport | BMW X1 xLine |
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Specification and standard equipment
In the X1 lineup, the xLine trim sits above the entry-level Sport trim. The standard equipment on xLine includes:
- 18-inch aero alloy wheels
- Powered bootlid
- Satin chrome trim and roof rails
- Two-zone climate control
- Heated ‘comfort’ seats
- Cruise control
- Auto LED headlights and auto wipers
- Digital dials
- Touchscreen with sat nav, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and more
The M Sport trim is a step up from xLine, and comes with:
- Black gloss trim and roof rails
- Tinted rear windows
- Sports seats with extra side bolstering
- Part-suede upholstery
- M Sport steering wheel
- Gearshift paddles
- Sportier suspension
Cost and value
If you’re buying a new X1, the xLine trim is around £3,000 less than the M Sport trim, and the extra kit on M Sport doesn’t feel like it’s worth the increase.
Also, when comparing these trims with the sDrive20i petrol engine, the xLine slips under the £40,000 threshold whereas the M Sport trim is over that amount. Cars above £40k are subject to the luxury car tax, tripling your annual road tax bill to over £600 until the car is six years old.
However, the M Sport trim is expected to hold its value a little better than the xLine trim, which closes the gap if you’re buying on PCP finance.
With M Sport being among the most popular BMW trim levels, there are far more used X1 M Sport cars for sale online than xLine ones.
Which is best?
The xLine trim boasts all the equipment you would expect in your X1, but the M Sport’s extra visual impact will be a draw for many buyers. They’re good upgrades if you’re not paying for them in a new car, but it’s quite a jump in cost if you’re the first owner of the car.
Because the X1 isn’t exactly a sports car, the slightly softer suspension on xLine trim arguably makes more sense. However, the wider availability of M Sport trim might edge us towards that model for a wider choice of ages, mileages and condition.
BMW X1 video review
Shop used BMW X1 M Sport cars and used BMW X1 xLine cars for sale. For more details on this great SUV, read our BMW X1 review.
