New BMW X1 SUV and iX1 EV SUV revealed

BMW has revealed the third-generation X1 and its full-EV version, the iX1. It gets an all-new exterior and interior, and a wide range of powertrain options. 

• New X1 based on BMW’s FAAR architecture
• Gets petrol, diesel and PHEV options
• India launch expected in 2023

New BMW X1 and iX1: exterior and interior design

The new-gen X1 gets slimmer LED headlights featuring the inverted L pattern for Daytime Running Lamps. The headlights flank the large, chrome-heavy kidney grille.

Meanwhile, the side profile features chunkier wheel arches and flush door handles like the ones seen on the new 7 Series. What differentiates the iX1 from its ICE sibling are the blue accents on its front and rear bumpers as well as the door sills.  

Dimensionally, the new X1 is slightly larger than its predecessor; and with a 22mm-longer wheelbase and a 31mm-wider track, there’s additional space in the cabin.

On the inside, the new-gen X1 features an interior design similar to the 2 Series Active Tourer. BMW has equipped the new SUV with the eighth-generation of BMW’s iDrive operating system running via a 10.7-inch touchscreen infotainment and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster.

BMW claims that the new seats offer enhanced long-distance comfort. Refinement is further boosted by acoustics and a host of added cabin features.

New BMW X1 and iX1: platform and powertrain options

The new-gen X1 is based on BMW’s FAAR architecture that underpins the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer and the upcoming new-generation Mini Countryman crossover. 

For international markets, buyers initially get a choice of three- and four-cylinder petrol engines and two four-cylinder diesels. Following soon will be an additional petrol, diesel and two plug-in hybrids offering an electric-only range of up to 88km.

The iX1 xDrive30 EV houses two electric motors producing a combined 313hp and 493Nm, and BMW claims a 0-100 time of 5.7sec. Meanwhile, a 64.7kWh battery under the floor provides a claimed range between 413km to 437km. It can be charged at the rates of up to 130kW for a 10-80 percent top-up time of 29 minutes.

The X1 will go on sale from October in international markets, and the iX1 will follow shortly after. 

New BMW X1 and iX1: India launch

BMW is likely to introduce the X1 and iX1 sometime next year in the Indian market. When launched in India, the X1 will take on the likes of the Mercedes-Benz GLA, Volvo XC40 and the upcoming Audi Q3. The iX1, on the other hand, will take on the soon-to-be-launched Kia EV6, and the upcoming Volvo XC40 Recharge and Hyundai Ioniq 5.

Also see:

BMW i4 with 590km range launched in India at Rs 69.90 lakh