False, There has always been a Xdrive variant of the X1, the E84s are RWD or Xdrive, and the newer F48 models are FWD or Xdrive - I have noticed a lot more F48s in Xdrive compared to the E84.
The X1 is based on the 1 series, and like the 1 series, climate control was an option. I have an E84 thats Xdrive and specced with climate control.
In terms of space, I would say that the x1 has more usable space compared to the 3 series, especially since the seats fold down, and the higher ground clearance makes life a lot easier.
personally, I dont think you need Xdrive on the X1, as its not a very capable offroader (imo) and lacks the ground clearance of other models in this segment, it also shares most of its underpinnings with the 1 and 3 series which are not designed for challenging terrain.
With the newer F48 X1, i would go Xdrive mainly because who wants a FWD bmw.