The X1 has proved to be a huge success and this latest version builds on that with bold styling, exceptional handling and the introduction of an all-new plug-in hybrid model.
Since it was launched in 2015 the current-generation model has gone from strength to strength. In 2018, not only the highest-selling BMW X model worldwide, it also led the way in its segment as a whole over the same time period.
The new BMW X1 will underscore its leading position in the market with three- and four-cylinder BMW TwinPower Turbo engines, standout driving characteristics, BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive, extensive infotainment options and an updated range of BMW ConnectedDrive Services.
There is more to come, however. Next year the petrol and diesel models will be joined for the first time by the xDrive25e plug-in hybrid model.
Exterior design
The design of the new BMW X1 strikes a more imposing chord when compared with the outgoing model as evidenced by the new, larger BMW kidney grille – where the two intakes now merge in the middle – and the sharper light iconography of the new standard LED headlights. The front bumper now boasts integral LED foglamps and all model variants feature larger air intakes.
Another highlight can be found at the driver’s-side exterior mirror, which projects a two- tone LED ‘X1’ image when the car is unlocked. This also includes illumination of the door handle recess in order to make getting into and out of the BMW X1 that much simpler by making it easier to spot obstacles such as bumps or puddles. This function is standard on xLine and M Sport models and optional on SE and Sport models.
At the rear, redesigned inlays on the apron are a standard feature and adopt the body colour of the BMW X1, while on Sport models the rear apron’s underbody protection is now finished in High-gloss Black.
Eye-catching LED rear lights and tailpipes
The LED rear lights of the BMW X1 have also been redesigned with a single LED bar drawing the familiar L signature from side to side. Another head-turning feature of the BMW X1 is the new exhaust tailpipes. Their diameter has increased from 70mm to 90mm. The four-cylinder variants get twin tailpipes.
Three new exterior colours, four new wheel designs
There are four model variants: SE, Sport, xLine and M Sport and each stands apart with its own unique looks and equipment to match. Newly available for the BMW X1 are the exterior colour shades Jucaro metallic. Exclusively for xLine and M Sport models are the new Misano Blue metallic and BMW Individual Storm Bay metallic.
The BMW X1 SE comes as standard with 17-inch wheels, while the model update adds four new wheel designs to the options list. Sport adds 18-inch double-spoke light-alloy wheels, xLine has standard-fit 18-inch bi-colour light alloy wheels in Y-spoke style, while M Sport models come with 18-inch bi-colour M double-spoke light alloy wheels. 19- inch light alloy wheels are optionally available on Sport and xLine models. For M Sport models, for the first time on the X1, there is an M Sport Plus pack available as an option which includes unique 19-inch light alloy wheels, M Sport brakes, Sun Protection Glass, M Sport Steering, M Sport Seat Belts and Harman Kardon upgraded speaker system.
New look for the M Sport model
The M Sport version, comes equipped with upgraded M Sport suspension and the
M Aerodynamics package. It also features Heated Front Seats, Folding Exterior Mirrors, Extended Lighting as well as Dakota Leather upholstery as standard. The front apron, side skirts, wheel arch trim, diffuser and cladding on the BMW X1 M Sport come in body colour.
Particularly eye-catching are features such as air intakes for the newly designed bumper (with Air Curtain Technology) that are even larger than on the other model variants.
Engine line-up
The new X1 is powered by a range of three and four-cylinder Twin-Power Turbo engines offering the perfect combination of driving performance and fuel economy, using either a front-wheel drive configuration or BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive.
There are two petrol and two diesel engines in the range. The petrol range starts with the 140hp 1.5-litre sDrive18i that has a peak torque of 220Nm. It will accelerate from zero to 100kph in 9.7s and then go on to a top speed of 204kph with optional automatic gearbox. It comes with either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual clutch auto, while CO2 emissions are 125g/km* and combined fuel consumption 37.7-56.5mpg**.
The more powerful 2.0-litre X1 sDrive20i delivers a total power output of 192hp with a maximum torque of 280Nm. The sDrive20i can be specified with a seven-speed Sport dual-clutch automatic, which will enable the car to complete the benchmark zero to 100kph sprint in 7.7s. Top speed is 225kph, while CO2 emissions are 129g/km with a combined fuel consumption of 47.9-52.3 mpg. The X1 xDrive20i improves zero to 100kph time to 7.4s with a top speed of 222kph while CO2 emissions are 143g/km with a combined fuel consumption of 38.7-51.4mpg.
The diesel range utilises a 2.0-litre power-plant and both the sDrive and the all-wheel drive xDrive18d models deliver 150hp and a peak torque of 350Nm. The benchmark zero to 62mph sprint is achieved in 9.3-9.4s while emitting 113-1145g/km of CO2. The X1 sDrive18d is offered with a six-speed manual or an optional eight-speed Sport automatic transmission. Combined fuel consumption is 36.7-53.3 mpg for the sDrive and 36.7-55.4mpg for the xDrive.
