The new BMW X1, the third generation of the model, features a more impressive design, superior spaciousness, advanced digitalization – plus, for the first time, a fully electric drive system.
A new control/operation system, incorporating the BMW Operating System 8 and the BMW Curved Display, along with a much wider range of automated driving and parking systems, contributes to the innovative character of this Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) of the luxury compact category.
With its robust design and functional flexibility, the new BMW X1 has to offer an authentic experience of freedom and independence in both everyday driving and longer journeys. The innovative design and the sophisticated interior atmosphere, along with the wider range of standard equipment, compared to the outgoing model, highlight the innate premium character of the X1.
To begin with, the vehicle is expected to be available with a range of two petrol and two diesel engines. These will cooperate with a seven-speed dual-clutch Steptronic gearbox, standard, and their motive power will be channeled to the road through the front wheels or through the intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel drive system, depending on the model. The two plug-in hybrid models and two more versions will immediately follow this quartet with conventional engines that will feature 48V mild hybrid technology.
Design: elegant surfaces, increased visual presence and robust appearance in undoubted BMW X style
The elegant surfaces, the lines and the classy design details of the BMW X1’s exterior design highlight the Sports Activity Vehicle identity more clearly than ever in this third generation of the model. The standout design includes strong measurements, almost square arches of the wheel domes and the characteristic style of the BMW X models at the front and rear part of the car.
The vertical front end of the new BMW X1 boosts further its presence, while the slim LED headlights, the large, almost square, BMW kidney grille, the X-shaped lines emerging from the side sections and the striking chrome strips on the lower air intake are also key features in the appearance of this car. Adaptive LED headlamps, with matrix style high beam, pulse indicators and variable beam distribution are optional.
The well-carved surfaces and the long roofline are the hallmarks of the new model’s dynamically elongated silhouette. When viewed from the back, the thin tailgate windscreen, horizontal lines, striking LED lights and extended wheel arches compose a classic SAV look.
The aura of robustness of the new BMW X1 is further emphasized by the special design characteristics of the xLine model, which include underbody protection, an element that adds an exceptional style. The M Sport model, an alternative to the standard version, focuses clearly on dynamic driving pleasure, incorporating features such as large cooling air intakes.
All versions of the model come standard with 17” light alloy wheels. 18” light alloy wheels are fitted to the xLine and M Sport versions, although they are also available with 19” wheels and—for the first time on a BMW X1—with 20” wheels. You can choose between two basic and ten metallic colours for the exterior finish—including, for the first time, a Frozen option from the BMW Individual.
Interior: innovative environment, flexible space
The main features in the redesigned cabin are the slimmer instrument panel, the BMW Curved Display, the “floating” armrest, with an integrated control panel, as well as the indirectly illuminated smartphone surface at the front of the main console.
The newly developed seats are available with both perforated Sensatec upholstery and Vernasca leatherette. In the optional list, we have sport seats, electric seat adjustment with memory function and lumbar support, including massage function. Improvements have also been made to acoustic comfort and passenger safety. Besides, the integrated passive safety concept now includes a new airbag, which protects the front seat passengers from each other.
The rear area of the new BMW X1 includes three full-size seats that offer significantly improved comfort. The 40 : 20 : 40 split rear seatbacks can be folded down or adjusted to a different angle, in order to increase the luggage compartment capacity. The luggage compartment capacity can be increased from 540 to a maximum of 1,600 litres. The optional tow bar of the new BMW X1 is now electrically operated.
Dual zone automatic air-condition control, Sport leather steering wheel and standard BMW Maps
The BMW Maps navigation system, a leather Sport steering wheel, an intelligent dual-zone automatic air-condition control and a rain sensor, including automatic headlight activation, are all standard in the new generation BMW X1, as well as four USB-C ports, two 12V sockets, and the much wider range of driver assistance systems, compared to the outgoing model.
Newly updated equipment packages offer targeted personalization of the car. The luxurious character can be taken up a level with optional features, such as the mirror package, interior atmospheric lighting, panoramic glass sunroof and Harman Kardon sound system.
Plug-in hybrid models with increased electric range, petrol and diesel engines with 48 V mild hybrid technology
The fifth generation of BMW eDrive technology is also used in the plug-in hybrid versions of the new BMW X1, which means significant steps forward over the previous generation in terms of sporting excellence, efficiency and charging capacity. A significant increase of the electric range has also been achieved.
The new BMW X1 will be launched with the option of conventional internal combustion engines; the range includes two petrol engines and two diesel units from the BMW Group’s new modular generation of Efficient Dynamics engines. Second-generation 48 V mild hybrid technology with an electric motor integrated into the seven-speed Steptronic transmission is essential to both efficiency and power output in the two most powerful engines.
An all-arounder vehicle that offers the optimal mix of flexibility and driving comfort
Regardless the powertrain they are equipped with, all new BMW X1 versions have a clear orientation in terms of road characteristics, under any conditions, and offer the driving experience for which the brand is well-known. The versatile model’s advanced chassis technology achieves the perfect harmonious balance between sporty, agile handling and long-distance comfort. The sine qua non tools to achieve this are: a body structure that reduces weight while increasing stiffness, a long wheelbase, wider tracks than the previous model, but also targeted upgrades to the front axle of a link with spring struts and three-link rear axle.
The slip control technology (near-actuator wheel slip limitation) is a standard in the new BMW X1, for the benefit of traction and directional stability. Other new features include the integrated braking system and the extra shock absorbers on the front axle, that continuously adjust their damping, depending on the corresponding travel of the springs (lift-related dampers). The optional adaptive M suspension features frequency-selective damping, sports steering and a ground clearance lowered by 15 mm.
Wide range of automated driving and parking systems
The technological progress of the new BMW X1, compared to the outgoing model, is also evident in the much wider range of automated driving and parking systems. Standard features include cruise control with brake function and the front-collision warning system, which is now able to detect oncoming vehicles when turning left (in right-hand drive countries) as well as pedestrians and bicyclists when turning right. The Parking Assistant, including Reversing Assist Camera and Reversing Assistant is also included in the standard equipment.
The list of optional features includes Steering & Lane Control Assistant, Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function, Active Navigation, Exit Warning function and BMW Head-Up Display, along with Surround View, Remote 3D View, BMW Drive Recorder and Remote Theft Recorder functions.
Standard: BMW Operating System 8 and BMW iDrive
In addition, the new BMW X1 offers its passengers the latest generation of BMW iDrive multi-sensory vehicle experience in the form of BMW Live Cockpit Plus (standard). Based on the BMW Operating System 8, it includes the BMW Curved Display with its advanced graphics and menu structure, together with the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, which has now acquired additional skills. The new BMW iDrive aims to offer intuitive control via touch and voice. Extensive digitization of the interior allows for a significant reduction in the number of physical buttons, controls and switches required to operate the vehicle.
The Augmented View function is available as an option for the cloud-based BMW Maps navigation system. In addition, a Personal eSIM, designed for 5G mobile technology, BMW Digital Key Plus, BMW ID functionality and smartphone integration using Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ are also available with the new BMW X1.