[Sharp11]

While the ZHP was in the shop having its snows shod, its spit and shine and a few other details, the local dealer gave me a brand new X1, put into service only a few days ago.

It was the four cylinder model with 17's, but something called "the ultimate package", which is essentially every option on top of an already well-optioned car - that added about 10k worth of gizmology and luxo features. Including a white, metallic paint finish that was quite nice.

So what was it like?

Not bad at all, in fact, I really liked it. It's small and nimble, the doors are light and small, the seats were comfy (part of the 10k package), it had plenty of room and it handled and drove really nicely - I was surprised at how quickly I could take some of my usual corners with very little body roll.

The driving position was just right; perhaps because Im so used to sitting down so low in the ZHP, it's always a novelty to me when I get in these taller vehicles, but it feels nice in traffic, and visibility is good.

The engine's a bit gruff - but it's responsive, and the 8 speed auto is quite good - none of those problems of yore with weird shift points etc. No exhaust note to speak of, but in a vehicle of this type, who cares.

If I were in the market now, I'd definitely consider this car, perhaps it's old age setting in, but it's nice to flip open a (smaller, lighter) door - with "comfort access" (no key), touch the nav screen, flip on the heated seats and steering wheel, and just cruise effortlessly, and still have some handling prowess - more than enough for suburban driving, anyway - plus all that room and utility.

42 grand is a lot of money ... and it looks a bit ungainly on 17's, but it rides really well (I don't think 18's would be a good choice) - I can see why the small ute market is so popular now, the X1, Audi's Q3, the VW Tiquan and now Mercedes has an entry ... they're good vehicles for today's mid market, and appealing.