The unveil of the 2023 third generation model brings a new lease of life to the BMW X1, India launch is expected soon
BMW has taken the game forward in the entry-level luxury SUV segment with the unveil of the third generation 2023 X1. The SUV which was longing for a comprehensive upgrade for quite a long time has been overhauled with many standard features and modern powertrains.
On the outside, the new BMW X1’s silhouette almost remains the same as the outgoing second generation model. But there are subtle changes. For example, the front kidney grille is not only larger but also more boxy than before with eye-catchy chrome surrounds.
The bumper recesses are predominantly finished in body colour with L-shaped chrome inserts (blue inserts on the electric variant). The bottom grille and rest of the bumper elements get the usual matte black finish. The short brushed silver skid plates have the been retained.
At the side, the design almost remains the same as the outgoing model. But the edges seem sharper this time with bold creases too. The matte black side cladding and skid plates look thin with body colour dominating most of the area. The window line gets chrome treatment.
The 2023 BMW X1 gets new dual-tone alloy wheels which feature a spoke like design in chrome with a black background. The design looks like overlapping ‘V’s and brings in a fresh and sporty look to the side. The wheel sizes range from 17-20 inches, with 20-inch being first for the X1.
Customers can choose from 2 solid and 10 metallic shades including a Frozen paint option for the first time. The rear is where the SUV gets the maximum design updates. The LED tail lamps have been completely redesigned.
They not only look sleek and edgy but also tuck nearly under the number plate recess. The creases look more pronounced with a sporty rear spoiler. There are subtle changes to the rear bumper which now sports sharper elements.
The new X1 is slightly bigger than its predecessor. The length and height are up by 43 mm while width is up by 23 mm. The increased dimensions are likely to provide more room in the cabin as the car looks more squarish although the drag coefficient is just 0.27.
On the inside, the 5-seater luxury SUV gets BMW’s latest iDrive 8 infotainment system which comes in two integrated displays – a 10.25-inch instrument cluster and a 10.7-inch music and navigation system. Below the screen, there’s space for 2 cup holders and a wireless charger.
The X1 additionally gets 4 USB-C ports, a 12-volt power socket in both the center console and the cargo area, and a Bluetooth interface as standard. A 205-watt Harman Kardon premium audio system system with 12 speakers and tweeters can be had as an option.
The newly developed seats are available with the option of both Sensatec perforated and Vernasca leather upholstery. The boot capacity can be increased from 540 to a maximum of 1,600 litres. Other standard features include 2-zone automatic climate control, sport leather steering wheel, and BMW maps.
For the first time, the BMW X1 gets electric, plug-in hybrid, and mild hybrid powertrains. The all-electric iX1 xDrive30 is the first all-wheel-drive electric car introduced by the brand in the premium compact segment. It puts out 313 HP and 494 Nm. It can clock 0-100 km/hr in 5.7 seconds and the maximum range is up to 438 km.
The SUV will go on sale from October with 2 petrol and 2 diesel options followed by the all-electric iX1. The engines will be paired to the standard 7-speed Steptronic transmission with the option of a 4-wheel drive system. The plug-in hybrids and mild hybrids will be launched later. The car is expected to hit our shores soon.
