Say hello to the second-generation BMW X1 that marks a significant departure from its predecessor, which incidentally was launched a decade ago, as it’s the company’s first-ever Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) to be built on front-wheel drive platform! No, really.
At launch, the all-new BMW X1 is available in the Sport Line variant and offered in a single engine option. The engine powering the all-new BMW X1 sDrive20i is a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder TwinPower Turbo unit that is able to develop a maximum output of 192 hp and peak torque of 280 Nm. Its instantaneous pulling power enables acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h in 7.7 seconds at a top speed of 225 km/h. The average fuel consumption though is a mere 5.9 litres per 100km, while C02 emissions stand at 136 grams per km.
The all-new BMW X1 also promises the BMW hallmarks of superior agility and sporting dynamism. With a newly developed front axle, the all-new BMW X1 performs agile cornering and receives precise steering feedback with the Servotronic power steering. The multi-link rear suspension meanwhile, is specifically tuned to meet the hallmark BMW requirements for front-wheel drive vehicles, which also further enhances the vehicle’s superb dynamic potential. Subsequently, even more agility and directional stability can be achieved with BMW Performance Control.
At 4,439 millimetres long, 1,821 millimetres wide and 1,598 millimetres tall, the proportions of the all-new BMW X1 follow the Sports Activity Vehicle blueprint in compact form. However, with 53 millimetres of growth in height, the all-new BMW X1 offers spaciousness in its interior. The multi-talented model not only offers more space for passengers and luggage, but it also provide additional versatility when it comes to utilising its load-carrying capacity.
The most notable progress, however, in the areas of functionality, safety and comfort of the all-new BMW X1 is the raised seating position by 40 millimetres. This allows better all-round view, which simultaneously brings added safety in road traffic. Entering and leaving the all-new BMW X1 also become more convenient for all passengers. In combination with the lowered position of the instrument panel and large window surfaces, the elevated view creates a pleasantly generous sense of spaciousness to the driver.
While the all-new BMW X1 impresses everyday urban life with its compact exterior dimensions, concealed behind that is far more than possibly imagined. Due to the front-wheel drive platform and the transverse engine, the all-new BMW X1 has an interior that is especially spacious and versatile. An additional 37 millimetres of legroom for rear-passengers for example, takes comfort in the all-new BMW X1 to a new level. Further to this a 40/20/40-split folding rear seatback as a standard feature allows for increased seating comfort in the rear or increased luggage capacity from 505 to 1,550 litres.
One of the all-new BMW X1 distinctive highlights is the new BMW ConnectedDrive Services and Apps that allows the use of the BMW Online internet portal via a SIM card embedded in the vehicle, as well as the integration of smartphone apps into the car. These include;
Intelligent Emergency Call which automatically establishes a connection with the nearest rescue coordination centre through the BMW Call Centre whenever needed – without the use of a mobile phone. It transmits information regarding the vehicle’s current location and the severity of the accident, and can also be triggered manually in case other road users require help.
Concierge Services can be accessed at the push of a button and the driver will be connected with a BMW Call Centre who acts as their “personal assistant” on the road. Whether the destination is a particular restaurant, the nearest ATM or a hotel, the BMW Call Centre agent will be able to assist 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Information of the desired destination can then be sent directly to the navigation system.
Remote Services allow drivers to transform their smartphones into an intelligent and convenient remote control for their vehicle, via the MY Remote app. Locking and unlocking the car for example, can be operated remotely. The headlights of the vehicle can also be flashed or the horn can be sounded using the smartphone in the case the vehicle is not located.
The BMW X1 also marks the debut of the BMW ConnectedDrive Driver Assistance systems which include an Intelligent Parking capabilities with Parking Assistant which makes parking parallel to the road easier. Whether activated or not, the system measures potential spaces while driving past at a low speed below 35 km/h and at a maximum distance of 1.5 metre from the row of parked cars. When a large enough gap has been found, the driver simply turns on the indicator and the Parking Assistant takes over the steering, while the driver continues to operate the accelerator, gears and brakes. The system also gives instructions in the Control Display and additional acoustic signals.
Apart from that, the X1 SAV also comes with BMW Navigation Professional with 6.5” Control Display and iDrive Controller, which enables intuitive and convenient operation of the iDrive system.
The all-new BMW X1 is available in Alpine White, Black Sapphire, Mineral Grey, Chestnut Bronze and Mediterranean Blue, with a range of Leather Dakota upholstery colour choices including Black, Red highlight and Mocha.
The retail price on the road, without insurance with BMW Malaysia’s latest 5 Years Unlimited Mileage Warranty and Free Scheduled Service Program of the all-new BMW X1 sDrive20i is RM279,800 (OTR w/o insurance).
BMW X1 sDrive20i photo gallery
