This summer’s 2013 BMW X1 sDrive28i press loaner still makes me smile when looking at the photos.

As my first week-long loan from BMW, the pressure was on to a) write a brilliant review and b) not hurt the car in any way!

The X1 is a hilarious riot to drive in 28i sDrive configuration, which denotes rear-wheel-drive versus the optional xDrive.

The turbo-charged engine is zingy and potent, with a broad and low torque plateau and the exceptional ZF eight-speed automatic handling changes.

The test car included EcoPro mode and automatic stop/start for stoplights and traffic. EcoPro mode really impressed with its mileage savings, but the stop-start is almost a deal-breaker in general.

Within iDrive, its automatic engagement can likely be disabled – along with myriad other electronic personalization settings from which owners can choose. I particularly enjoyed the M Sport spec’s seats with the slide-out base extension and a chunky steering wheel.

The LED lighting accents are also pretty delightful, with illumination for all the door handles and LED-lit puddle lights as you blip the doors open. It is classy, modern and charming.

The X1 felt right at home with mega-buck sports cars during its week here.

It accompanied us on a McLaren 12C ride-along at local BlackHawk Farm Raceway, where the people are charming and the course is a hoot.

Enjoy these high-res images of this beauty, which is the top-level M Sport package including body-color sills and less chrome than the base, $33,000 X1.

BMW X1 sDrive28i M Sport – Exterior Gallery – Blackhawk Farms

BMW X1 sDrive28i M Sport – Exterior Gallery – Canoes Launch

BMW X1 sDrive28i M Sport – Interior Gallery