The BMW X1 is a line of cars produced by German marque BMW since 2009. It is in the subcompact luxury crossover class, and the first-generation X1 was based on the E90 3 Series and offered rear-wheel drive layout as standard. At its introduction in 2009, it was positioned as the smallest SUV in BMW line-up, below the X3 prior to the launch of the smaller X2. The X1 essentially is aiming a wider range of customers due to its smaller size, increased efficiency, and a lower price tag due to the all-wheel drive layout (xDrive) being optional.

The second-generation X1 marked the switch to a front-wheel-drive-based layout using the UKL2 platform shared with the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer and the Mini Countryman. Despite its name, it is now only the second smallest SUV produced by BMW since the introduction of the X2.

First generation (E84; 2009)

The E84 X1 is the first-generation model and was originally presented as the BMW Concept X1 at the Paris Motor Show in 2008. Development of the vehicle started in 2006 when BMW identified the need for a smaller and more efficient model in its SUV line-up as petrol prices were increasing. Due to the urgent need to produce the vehicle, development and pre-production time was shortened by 40 percent compared to previous X Series models.

It is based on the same platform as the E90 3 Series and features the same 2,760 mm (108.7 in) wheelbase. The X1 is the first BMW X Series to be available in the sDrive trim (two-wheel drive). It was not introduced to the United States until 2012.

In 2013, the E84 X1 underwent a facelift, featuring restyled exterior and interior design elements, as well as the integration of BMW EfficientDynamics on all models. The original X1 sold 820,529 units.

Second generation (F48; 2016)

The F48 X1 is the second-generation model. It is built upon the front-wheel drive based UKL2 platform, and is available in long-wheelbase and long-wheelbase hybrid variants in China. The range consists of turbocharged 3-cylinder and 4-cylinder petrol and diesel engine options. Base models are front-wheel drive (branded as sDrive), with all-wheel drive (xDrive) available as an option and is standard for some higher-end models.

Third generation (U11/U12; 2022)

The U11 X1 was revealed in June 2022, and launched in select markets globally in late 2022, and early 2023. Available powertrains include a turbocharged 3-cylinder, 4-cylinder petrol, inline-three diesel, inline-four diesel mild hybrid, petrol plug-in hybrid, and an electric variant called the iX1.

Base models are front-wheel drive (branded as sDrive), with all-wheel drive (xDrive) available as an option (standard for some higher-end models). Like the BMW iX3, the all-electric iX1 will not be available in the United States nor Canada.

The redesigned X1 has an updated interior similar to that of the iX, i4, and 2023 3 Series. It features a 10.25 inch digital gauge cluster as well as a 10.7 inch center screen running BMW's iDrive 8 infotainment system.

An M Sport package is available that adds adaptive suspension (available for the first time on the X1), a lower ride height, and interior and exterior styling elements. The package also includes sport seats and launch control with paddle shifters on the M-Sport steering wheel.

For the X1 sold in the US, the optional Active Seats with Lumbar Support includes massaging seat function for both front seats. Massaging seat intensity and timer can only be controlled from the touchscreen.

The long-wheelbase model was introduced in China in April 2023 under the model code U12, with available 1.5-litre turbo petrol (20Li) and 2.0-litre turbo petrol (25Li).

M35i xDrive

In June 2023, the M35i xDrive version was announced. The M35i xDrive uses 2-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged engine which generates 300 hp and 400Nm. For selected countries and the United States, it generates an additional 17 horsepower. It accelerates from 0-60 mph in 5.4 seconds and its top speed is limited to 155 mph. Deliveries for the United States begin in October 2023 while deliveries for the rest of the world begin in November 2023.

Equipment

The X1 features equipment such as heated front seats (SDrive18i exclusive) and heated steering wheel via a subscription on the BMW ConnectedDrive store. All U11 models receive a ‘Curved Display Unit’, meaning it combines a 10.25-inch digital dial display along with a 10.7-inch infotainment screen.

The boot is 50 litres larger than the outgoing model, with 540 litres with seats up, and 1,600 litres with the seats down. The X1 receives more safety equipment compared to the F48, along with more technology, power and performance.

Production and sales

The following are the production and sales figures for BMW X1 models:

See also

• List of BMW vehicles

References

External links

• Official site