Modern surface treatment, classy exterior design details, powerful proportions with almost square wheel arch contours, and a more upright, prominent front end give the new third-generation entry-level BMW X model an increased visual presence. And, for the first time, it will be available with an all-electric drive system.
With its more prominent design displaying its Sports Activity Vehicle identity more clearly, the new X1 premium compact SAV is now more appealing than ever. First introduced internationally in early June, the newcomer’s broader selection of equipment compared to the outgoing model underlines its embedded premium character.
A new control/operation system with BMW Operating System 8 and BMW Curved Display, plus a more comprehensive selection of automated driving and parking systems, help to further define its forward-looking character, while the new BMW iX1 features instant, linear acceleration thanks to its all-electric drivetrain and emission-free mobility.
According to BMW, the new X1 will be available from October this year, initially with a choice of two petrol and two diesel engines, paired with a seven-speed Steptronic DCT as standard, with drive channelled to the road via the front wheels or the BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system.
This starting quartet of models will immediately be followed by the all-electric BMW iX1 xDrive30, a pair of plug-in hybrid models, and another two conventionally powered Efficient Dynamics engine variants with 48V mild-hybrid technology.
eDrive and Mild-Hybrid Technology
BMW states that the iX1 will bring the experience of emission-free driving to a vehicle segment enjoying worldwide growth, making it accessible to a broad target audience. Powered by the latest BMW eDrive technology, the iX1 xDrive30 is the first all-wheel-drive electric car introduced by the brand in the premium compact segment.
The iX1 xDrive30 has two highly integrated drive units at the front and rear axles, delivering a combined output of 230 kW and overall torque of 494 Nm. The electric all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent traction and stability, enabling the all-electric model to sprint from zero to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds. A high-voltage battery with high energy density gives the iX1 a maximum range of 438 km, according to the German automaker.
Fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology is also employed in the plug-in hybrid variants. An Efficient Dynamics engine and second-generation 48V mild-hybrid technology with an electric motor integrated into the seven-speed Steptronic transmission enable the four-cylinder X1 xDrive23i to produce 160 kW (up to 150 kW via the engine and up to 14 kW via the integral electric motor).
As with its predecessor, the new X1 sDrive18i is powered by a 100 kW three-cylinder engine, while in the new X1 xDrive23d, a four-cylinder diesel engine combines with mild hybrid technology to deliver 155 kW (145 kW from the engine and 14 kW from the integral electric motor). The four-cylinder diesel unit in the X1 sDrive18d generates up to 110 kW.
With a prominent, almost square kidney grille, slim LED headlights (adaptive LED headlights with matrix high beam, pulsating turn indicators and variable light distribution are optionally available) and X-shaped lines on the side, the newcomer looks like a miniature X7.
Design elements of the xLine model intensify its powerful aura, while the M Sport model places the focus on dynamic driving pleasure. All variants come as standard with 17” light-alloy wheels. 18” light-alloys are fitted on the xLine and M Sport models, although they are also available with 19” and – in a first for the X1 – 20” wheels.
Versatile, Premium Interior
Inside, a raised seating position and a premium ambience help create a distinctive interior experience. Key elements of the cabin design are the slender instrument panel, the BMW Curved Display, the “floating” armrest with integral control panel and newly developed seats with leather upholstery.
The rear compartment includes three full-sized seats with 40:20:40 split rear seat backrests. Fore-and-aft rear seat adjustment is optionally available for the combustion engine models, and boot capacity can be increased from 540 to 1,600 litres. The BMW Maps navigation system, a leather sport steering wheel, two-zone auto climate control, a rain sensor and auto headlight activation are all standard, and options include ambient lighting, a panoramic sunroof and Harman Kardon Sound System.
According to BMW, the new X1 models offer well-resolved handling characteristics, irrespective of the drive system fitted, due to lighter body construction with increased rigidity, a long wheelbase, wider tracks than the predecessor model, and targeted suspension system upgrades. Near-actuator wheel slip limitation is fitted as standard.
Other new features include an integrated braking system and extra, lift-related damping at the front axle. The optional adaptive M suspension features frequency-selective damping, sport steering and a 15 mm drop in ride height. Standard safety features include Cruise Control with brake function and front-collision warning system.
Local Introduction
The new BMX X1 is expected to be introduced locally early next year, with the full-electric iX1 xDrive30 launched as a flagship derivative, complemented initially by the normally aspirated petrol-driven X1 sDrive18i and diesel-powered sDrive18d models. Prices and local specifications are yet to be confirmed.
Report by Ferdi de Vos | Images BMW AG
