It seems that after the launch of the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer, BMW is not slowing down with churning out front wheel drive models. Fresh from BMW is the all-new BMW X1, which is now a front wheel drive model. Don’t lose your marbles just yet, as we will be sharing the details of the all-new BMW X1 below.
The all-new BMW X1 doesn’t just adopt the front wheel drive philosophy from the 2 Series Active Tourer, but even the exterior styling has been inspired by the 2 Series AT. The front fascia of the BMW X1 has been completely redesigned, now flaunting a more curvaceous body than its predecessor. Gone are the BMW X3-inspired rear end, now the all-new BMW X1 resembles the 2 Series AT’s rear. Not that it’s a bad thing, as the 2 Series Active Tourer does look fine for a compact MPV. The design language does provide the new X1 with a more cohesive look, but still retains the essence of an off-road BMW. LED lighting all round has to be optioned, and isn’t part of the standard package.
Interior wise, the all-new BMW X1 remains familiar to BMW drivers. Height has increase by 53 mm over its predecessor, which increases the spaciousness of the interior cabin. Seating position too, has been raised by 36 mm for the front passengers, and 64 mm for the rear passengers. This allows the driver to get a better view ahead.
Although wheelbase has shrunk over its predecessor, knee room has increase by 37 mm, and up to 66 mm with the optional adjustable rear seats. With the rear seats folded down, the all-new BMW X1 boasts a boot space of 1,550 litres. With the rear seats up, boot space is still a generous 505 litres. Standard equipment includes an audio system with AUX and USB connectivity and BMW’s iDrive system. The BMW iDrive system hooks up to a 6.5-inch LCD display that rests on the centre console. Buyers can also opt for a larger 8.8-inch display.
BMW ConnectedDrive makes a return on the all-new BMW X1, but with the addition of a BMW Head-Up Display, which displays driving-related information on the windscreen. Safety features like Active Cruise Control system with Stop & Go function, Lane Departure Warning, Traffic Jam Assistant, Collision Warning and Pedestrian Warning with City Braking can be optioned as well.
Perhaps the biggest change is the all-new BMW X1’s driveline, which is now front wheel drive. The predecessor was a rear wheel drive, which can be optioned with BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system. On the all-new BMW X1 however, power goes mainly to the front wheels, even when optioned with the xDrive system. The xDrive system will send power to the rear wheels when deemed necessary.
At launch, the BMW X1 will come with a range of 4-cylinder engines, with 3-cylinder engines to make a debut later. A total of six engines will be available when the BMW X1 is launched, with power figures ranging from 150 hp up to 231 hp. On November, BMW’s line of 3-cylinder engines will enter the X1. For our local market, we can expect an Aisin 8-speed automatic gearbox.
