New BMW X1 earmarked for local introduction
Following the recent overhaul of the 3 Series, BMW is presenting its new X1 subcompact luxury crossover which spawns significant upgrades to keep it relevant in its respective fold.
What’s new?
Set to be built at the BMW Group Plant Regensburg, the third-generation BMW X1’s front fascia features slim LED headlights, a large kidney grille, X-shaped lines radiating out to the sides and chrome strips in the lower air intake.
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Adaptive LED headlights with Matrix high beam can be fitted as options. The rear is equipped with a slim tailgate window, striking LED lights plus flared wheel arches. The new BMW X1 is available in new exterior colours and up to 20″ wheel sizes. BMW offers 18″ as standard across the entire range.
In terms of dimensions, the BMW X1 has grown, thanks to increases of 43 mm, 22.9 mm and 43 mm in length, width and height respectively which have resulted in improved interior space.
Cabin technology
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The interior gets the same curved digital dashboard as the one fitted in the refreshed 3 Series which comes courtesy of a 10.25″ information display with the new iDrive Operating System 8 and a 10.7″ control display. A total of four USB-C ports, BMW digital assistance, a new gear selector, navigation and over-the-air updates can be found.
The business of drive
BMW SA is yet to confirm the local range but we’re likely to get the X1 sDrive18i which boasts a 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol engine with 115 kW and 230 Nm as well as the sDrive18d with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel with 110 kW and 360 Nm.
BMW SA says it will introduce the iX1 xDrive30 which is the first all-wheel-drive electric car introduced by the brand in the premium compact segment. The iX1 features two integrated drive units at the front and rear axles to deliver a combined output of 230 kW and overall torque of 494 Nm.
With all four corners powered, it dashes from 0-100 km/h in 5.7 seconds and will be able to travel up to 438 km before requiring a recharge, thanks to improved charging software that is also found in the BMW i7.
The all-new BMW X1 and iX1 will be available in South Africa from the fourth quarter of 2022 and the first quarter of 2023, respectively.
