The BMW X1 has actually been around since 2009, and has served as the brand's most affordable SUV, unsurprisingly proving popular because of this.
The German firm is back with a new third generation car, which is promising big improvements and advancements in a number of areas, and should help to expand its appeal further. Here’s what you need to know about it…
New electric iX1 available
BMW is really ramping up its electric vehicle line-up and – following the iX3, i4 and i7 – comes the iX1. Simply put, it’s a battery-powered version of the regular X1, using a new powertrain for the firm to rival models like the Mercedes EQA and Volvo XC40 Recharge.
Called the iX1 xDrive30, the all-wheel-drive model uses two electric motors producing 309bhp and 494Nm of torque. A 64.7kWh battery also features, allowing for a claimed electric range of up to 272 miles. With DC rapid charging of up to 130kW, the iX1 can be charged from 10 to 80 per cent in just half an hour.
Range of new engines and hybrids also on offer
The X1 will remain available in a range of other powertrains, including petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrids.
Two PHEVs will be offered – the xDrive30e and xDrive25e – with a larger 14.2kWh usable battery being fitted than the outgoing plug-in X1. This allows for up to 55 miles of electric range, while quicker charging results in reduced charging times – now taking 2.5 hours.
A new 215bhp xDrive23i petrol engine joins the range, and is followed by two diesels – the 148bhp sDrive18d and 208bhp xDrive23d. All but the entry-level diesel now feature mild-hybrid technology too.
Striking new design
BMW has also given the latest X1 a bolder design to help it fit in with the rest of its range. Featuring a larger, almost square kidney grille, this SUV looks bolder than ever, while also coming as standard with slim LED headlights that have a new signature.
At the rear, the X1 now gets wraparound LED rear lights and a slimmer rear window to give it a sportier look. Customers also have the choice between a more rugged xLine trim level or the more purposeful look of the popular M Sport grade. Large 20-inch alloy wheels (the biggest ever offered on the X1) are also available as an optional extra.
Uses BMW’s latest touchscreen operating system
Though the X1 might be BMW’s most affordable SUV, the brand is still kitting it out with a vast array of technology from its more expensive cars.
Key to this is the new BMW Curved Display, which helps to transform the X1’s cabin for the better, including a large digital dial display and touchscreen that merge together. Using BMW’s latest ‘Operating System 8’ it offers enhanced connectivity and functionality.
Enhanced comfort and interior space
The X1 is a very popular choice with families, and as a result BMW has worked to improve its usability factor. It grows marginally in size, being longer, wider and taller than its predecessor, with the German firm promising more interior space as a result.
Newly developed seats are also fitted to the X1, with BMW saying they offer ‘optimised comfort over long distances’, with more prominent bolsters and further adjustment to them.
The new BMW X1 is on sale now, with prices starting from £35,130
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