
First press the brake pedal all the way down, shift into "D" gear, then push the gear lever to the right. You can use the + and - paddles on the steering wheel to shift gears up or down.

As a newcomer to the BMW X1 automatic transmission, the first step after getting in the car is to adjust the seat and mirrors to ensure comfortable and safe driving visibility. After fastening the seatbelt, press the brake pedal and gently press the start button to fire up the engine. If any warning lights illuminate on the dashboard, promptly check the cause, such as low fuel level. The gearshift is electronic—simply push it lightly to D (Drive) to move forward; releasing the brake will make the car creep slowly, and applying slight pressure on the accelerator will get it moving. The BMW features a driving mode selector; rotating it to Comfort mode ensures smooth and fuel-efficient driving. When tackling slopes for the first time, remember to firmly press the brake to prevent rolling backward. When parking, don’t rush to turn off the engine—first press the brake firmly, shift to P (Park), and turn off the car once the electronic parking brake light comes on. Throughout the process, I found the steering wheel light and responsive, with strong chassis support that keeps the car stable during turns. Beginners are advised to practice in an open area first to get accustomed to the accelerator sensitivity.

As someone who drives this car daily for commuting, my routine is simple: get in, press the brake to start the engine, and the electronic parking brake releases automatically—very convenient. Shift to D and a light tap on the accelerator gets me moving. The auto start-stop feature, which cuts the engine at red lights, is quite practical for fuel savings. On the road, the BMW X1's steering offers precise feedback, with smooth acceleration and no jerking. Don’t panic on steep hill starts—just keep the brake pressed and ease off slowly. When parking, make sure to shift to P to lock the gear, engage the handbrake, and then turn off the engine for safety. I always check the tires and fuel level before starting to avoid breakdowns. Overall, this car is hassle-free and ideal for city commutes. With time, I’ve learned that regular oil changes and transmission maintenance can extend its lifespan.

The joy of driving a BMW X1 automatic transmission is best experienced in Sport mode: quick throttle response, noticeable acceleration, and agile, effortless steering. I start by pressing the brake to ignite, shift to D for immediate forward motion, and gentle acceleration ensures smooth speed increase. The well-tuned chassis keeps the ride stable, with no drifting during turns, making highway overtaking exhilarating. Remember to press the brake and shift to P to lock when parking. Regularly ensure engine cooling and avoid prolonged idling.


