BMW launches the third generation of the X1 – for the first time also as an electric car. The compact SUV has grown slightly compared to its predecessor and has more standard equipment. BMW speaks of a “mature premium character”.
The new BMW X1 appears with a large kidney grille in the front, LED headlights and generally looks a bit more aggressive. The rear is characterized by flared wheel arches, a flat window in the trunk lid and LED lights. “In the third model generation, surface design, lines and high-quality details in the exterior design of the BMW X1 signalize its identity as a Sports Activity Vehicle more than ever,” says a BMW press release.
The interior is characterized by a curved display, as well as a center armrest that protrudes in a floating manner and has an integrated control panel. The center console also has a surface for inductively charging a smartphone.
BMW advertises a “mature premium character”, which is expressed, among other things, by ambient lighting, a panoramic glass roof and a Harman Kardon sound system. In addition, the BMW X1 relies on intuitive touch operation and voice control. Smartphone functions can be used in the car’s infotainment system via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
BMW X1 available in different model variants
For the first time, the German carmaker is launching the compact SUV as a combustion engine, hybrid and electric car model. The basic model appears with a three-cylinder petrol engine and 136 hp (from 41,400 euros), the hybrid model with all-wheel drive has 218 hp (from 49,450 euros). Both work with 48-volt technology. The diesel range includes a four-cylinder model with 150 hp (from 43,950 euros) and a model with all-wheel drive and 211 hp (from 50,150 euros).
The first all-electric model in the 1-series class, the BMX iX1, has a maximum of 313 hp, a maximum torque of 494 Newton meters and an acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds. BMW specifies a power consumption of 18.4 to 17.3 kWh according to WLTP and an electric range of 413 to 438 kilometers. The all-electric model variant (from 55,000 euros) is intended to further help the Munich-based company to switch to electromobility.
Standard equipment larger than predecessor
540 liters fit into the trunk of the 4.50 meter long and around 1.85 meter wide compact SUV, which is 35 liters more than in the predecessor. This can only be expanded from 540 liters to up to 1600 liters on the combustion models.
Compared to the previous model, the standard equipment of the BMW X1 has also been significantly expanded. These include a cloud-based navigation system, a sports leather steering wheel, a rain sensor with automatic headlight control and an increased number of driver assistance systems – including cruise control with braking function, detection of oncoming traffic, of pedestrians or cyclists when turning and a parking assistant with reversing camera.
A 7-speed gearbox with dual clutch and 17-inch wheels also come as standard. The integrated brake system and the stroke-dependent additional damping on the front axle are also new. Among other things, an airbag between the driver’s and front passenger’s seat should ensure increased safety.
In addition, customers can buy a steering and lane guidance assistant, an exit warning and the so-called surround view function, among other things. The special equipment also includes an electrically extendable and retractable trailer hitch.
The BMW X1 is produced at the BMW plant in Regensburg. Here, for the first time, models with combustion engines, plug-in hybrid systems and purely electric drives will be produced on one production line. According to its own statements, the car manufacturer is increasingly using electricity from renewable energies as well as secondary raw materials and natural materials. The market launch of two petrol and two diesel models is planned for October. The all-electric BMW iX1 and other variants with conventional drives are scheduled to appear from November.
Sources: BMW, Handelsblatt
