The X1’s architecture was shared with its cousin, the MINI Countryman, and some early offerings were front-wheel-drive, pretty much anathema to BMW purists who expect the rear wheels to do the pushing. However the current X1 models are all-wheel-drive and MINI has a pretty good legacy of motoring amusement, so I had reasonable expectations of crisp performance. I wasn’t the least bit disappointed.

BMW’s pure “M” offerings, such as its X3 M, are nearly track-tuned, deep-throated machines that beckon the Parnelli Jones instincts of red-blooded enthusiasts. Although our X1 M35i wasn’t tire smoldering, my late friend Parnelli would have been as pleased as I was with this compact SUV’s performance. The turbocharged 2.0-liter engine generates 312 HP and that’s plenty to move just 3,790-pounds. Zero to 60 MPH takes just 5.2-seconds and the top design speed is 155 MPH. Yes, I know, an electric version would win the drag race, but it would also bring along another 1,000-pounds, a girth you would experience when attempting quick turns.

The styling is both busy and aggressive with black replacing chrome and accenting the squared off kidney grille over a yawning mouth and big side vents, features that seem to populate quite a few new offerings. And when will BMW designers decide on a new grille? Just asking. Optional 20-inch wheels and low-profile tires nicely fill the wheel wells and in back, a four-pipe exhaust quartet pay off the M badging.

Inside, you’re nicely seated in red ventilated leather with black bolsters stitched in red. It’s comfortable and supportive without the confinement of competition seating. And the driver faces a generous curved screen with bright display graphics. I looked for the large, round iDrive controller, but it was nowhere to be found since this renewed X1 was upgraded with BMW’s Operating System 9. Geez guys, after 23-years of learning to twirl the dial you’ve launched new “Quick Select” software? Yep! And of course a new virtual BMW ConnectedDrive Store has opened for owners to customize and expand their digital life through subscriptions. Welcome to the 21st century.

For those, including your humble reviewer, who wish to drive instead of learning new digital tricks from the left seat, I chatted with the voice activated system when a new Sirius XM channel was needed. That exchange isn’t as developed as some rivals, but I’m sure they’re busy in Bavaria working on the next update. The good news is that this is a solid driving, youthfully-luxurious BMW that’s reasonably priced at a $49,900 base. Of course our press car had the kitchen sink thrown in so the total MSRP was $58,595. Other rivals to consider are Mercedes AMG GLA 35, Porsche Macan and for fun, the MINI Countryman John Cooper Works.