The beauty of a BMW stems from the rigidity of German standards that allow it to meet the expectations of the most discerning car owner. Like any other car brand, it offers a full range of models at varying price points and at almost every vehicle class. What’s great is that it leaves nothing to chance. Whichever model or variant you choose, a BMW will always feel and drive like a BMW. From the structural solidity of the car’s construction to the driving performance, you will always know that you are behind the wheel of a top-notch German vehicle.

That being said, a car is meant to be driven and, personally, BMWs are created for the road, not the garage. One of our favorites this season is the BMW X1, the brand’s gorgeous crossover that ticks all the right boxes if you’re looking for a city slicker that does just as well on weekend highway runs.

The X1 is a performer that is designed to keep up with the grind, with a 2-liter, 4-cylinder engine that is mated to a 7-speed automatic transmission. Despite being a diesel, it is seamlessly responsive and decidedly quieter than most other cars that run on a similar engine. The acceleration is smooth and gradual, with an easy maneuverability that can complement any driving style and requirement. This means that you can count on the X1 to support your daily point-to-point travels, as well as for longer out-of-town journeys.

And speaking of longer out-of-town journeys, the X1 has impressive fuel economy figures—reaching up to 15.38 km/L during a weekend run (average speed 18 km/h). With diesel prices on the rise, it’s important to maximize every drop that’s available. Go with Petron Turbo Diesel—a fuel that has been proven to offer not just improved engine response, but an improvement of almost 12 percent in terms of mileage.

The BMW X1 is the epitome of understated elegance. Its unique in-between size allows it to fit into most traffic situations and makes it easy to park, even in spaces where you need to squeeze it in a little bit. Its stands proudly on 18-inch matte aluminum alloy wheels that create a distinctive frontage that is complemented only by the BMW signature square double kidney grille and slim-style adaptive LED headlights. The proportions of the angular design give the X1 a sporty image that allows it to remain functional, with a rounded sloped hood line at just the right length for better visibility from the driver’s seat, regardless if you’re tall or petite.

The inside cabin of a BMW defines what has been coined, “quiet luxury.” By this, we mean an interior that is kept classic and simple in its practicality, while having a finish that is distinctively plush. It’s all in the details, after all. The BMW X1 uses premium leather finishing for the ergonomic, power-adjust seats, steering wheel, and dashboard. This design is supported by subtle ambient lighting and a slim, one-piece, frameless Widescreen Display for both the full-color digital instrument cluster and infotainment system.

The BMW X1 has become more driver-centric, as well, with controls being more easily reachable by the driver, located in areas that are instinctively familiar — at least for those who have driven BMWs in the past. It is not overly crowded with switches and buttons that are unnecessarily for show, reducing confusion and minimizing the time needed to get familiar with the car.

Being a woman with so much on her plate every day, I appreciate the multitude of storage spaces, from the cupholders, to the discrete stowage below the modern-style center console. A personal favorite in the X1 that I admittedly overused was the wireless charging pad that allows you to charge your smartphone standing up, instead of laying down on a flat pad. In addition, the charging area has a retractable feature that securely holds your phone in place. This means less chances of your phone sliding around and more consistent charging.

The infotainment system also offers seamless connection to your devices. Whether it’s Bluetooth or Apple CarPlay, the BMW X1 will automatically detect your smartphone once you’re in the cabin and the functions are turned on. For safety, the X1 is equipped with key driver assist features, such as Lane Change Warning, Rear Collision Prevention, Rear Cross Traffic Alert with braking intervention, Parking Assist, and Reversing Assist, among others.

Driver’s point of view aside, the BMW X1 offers the same comfort for passengers. It has generous legroom in the rear bench and a large cargo hold that further expands when the backseats are folded down. This, along with the technology and safety built into the car, is what makes the X1 one of the best options for a premium daily driver.

BMW has always held a high standard for craftsmanship and engineering. Moreover, it ensures its customers that they are not only getting the best of German technology, but they are also stepping into an experience that will leave a lasting impression for generations to come. Again, consistency is key, and BMW knows exactly how to do it right. The BMW X1 may be your starting point, but rest assured that you work your way up and through the ladder, you will get the same signature deal — only better.