An interesting point of view Sif which I have to agree with. I had an aquaintance from London who would only drive Merc’s and I had just got a 1 series. He commented in from of his shop full of customers “nice car but it’s the wrong badge”. I simply smiled and soon he realised the foolishness of his remarks. I have had two BMW’s. One great one average. The 1 series was a fantastic car to drive. The X1 sadly not especially combined with a faulty auto box and poor dealer experience. Would I consider another one? Probably not, however, as with many thing’s it comes down to price and perceived value for money in the end.