The 2021 BMW X1 has been ranked one of the best luxury compact SUVs. It’s also less expensive than its older sibling, the BMW X3. And even though it’s been slammed for having some interior features with plastic covers, the X1 is roomy and packs a decent engine. So why are consumers avoiding it?

The BMW X1 is suffering low sales

According to GoodCarBadCar, sales for the 2021 X1 aren’t as high as expected. So far this year, only 3,968 units have sold, compared to sales for the same time period in previous years, such as 4,133 units in 2020 and 5,856 units in 2019. And numbers aren’t anywhere close to what they were in 2018, when 8,251 units sold, or in 2017, when 7,297 units sold. Though 2021 isn’t over yet, if sales stay on their current track, this year could be one of the worst for the X1.

It’s among the most luxurious compact crossovers

Even with some critics making a fuss about a few plastic covers, U.S. News ranked the X1 as the fourth most luxurious SUV. Reviewers raved about the X1’s nicest interiors in its class with lots of quality materials. It also boasts ample cargo space— close to 60 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. And passenger space is fairly roomy in the front and back seats. 

The infotainment system is also impressive, with a standard 8.8-inch touchscreen. It comes with satellite radio and Apple CarPlay. But, oddly, Android Auto isn’t available.

The X1 also comes standard with tons of advanced safety features. They include forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, front and rear parking sensors, and a rearview camera. You can also add parallel and perpendicular parking assists. 

Does the BMW X1 cost too much?

The 2021 BMW X1 offers two trims, the sDrive28i with front-wheel drive and the xDrive28i with all-wheel drive. Both trims have the same engine, a 2.0-liter intercooled turbo inline-four cylinder producing 228 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The front-wheel drive option starts at $35,400, and the all-wheel drive option starts at $37,400. In addition to choosing from several optional packages, you can add Dakota leather for $1,450 and a Harman Kardon premium sound system for $875.

Other options include the M Sport package, which costs $4,350 and includes 18-inch M double-spoke wheels and an aerodynamic kit. And the Convenience package costs $2,250 and includes a panoramic moonroof, power-folding seats, and special lumbar support. You can also choose the Premium package, which runs about $4,700 and includes everything in all the lower packages plus a head-up display and a navigation system.

There seems to be no clear problem with the 2021 BMW X1 that would cause sales to be lower than expected. The plastic covers may have actually turned off buyers, but it’s still a luxurious SUV and one of the best on the market. The low sales could be due to rivals offering cheaper but equally luxurious and powerful models, such as the Mazda CX-5.

Whatever the reason, BMW probably isn’t happy with X1 sales this year, and it’ll be interesting to see how the German automaker responds. Maybe it’ll finally add Android Auto.

REALTED: The 2020 BMW X1 Is Not a Bad Luxury Subcompact SUV at All