2015 BMW X1 BREAKS COVER
Entry-level SUV enters second generation with more rugged looks, front-wheel-drive option and new engines and gearboxes
It looks better now ...
We agree, as the first-generation X1 (codenamed E84) is arguably the frumpiest-looking BMW currently on sale. What you see here in official photos for the first time is the second-gen model (tagged F48) that will hit world markets towards the end of this year.
The appearance of the new X1 seems to be bolder and more rugged now, thanks to a slightly shorter overall length but wider and taller stance.
The 53mm increase in the vehicle’s height has allowed BMW engineers to fit seats in loftier positions so that passengers can have a better view of the outside.
Speaking of the interior, there’s now a 6.5-inch freestanding display on the fascia to operate various infotainment. Like the full LED headlights on the front of the X1, head-up display for the driver’s cockpit is optional.
Is it based on a new platform?
Yes it is. The new X1 now uses the UKL platform that also underpins the 2-series Active and Gran Tourers, as well as the Mini family of cars. This means that engines in the X1 are laid transversely now and drive either all four wheels or just the front ones. Its predecessor employed a longitudinal and four/rear-wheel drive matrix.
Such a packaging has also helped free up cabin space in which BMW says occupants benefit from more legroom. Cargo space is also up, while versatility is boosted by standard 40:20:40 folding rear seats.
With the engine positioned further up front, BMW has managed to shrink the wheelbase length by 90mm, from 2,760mm, to still make the cabin bigger than before.
With the use of more aluminium, as well as employing BMW’s latest petrol and diesel engines, weight has dropped by around 130kg. Fuel efficiency has increased by 17% across the range, with partial thanks also going to eight-speed automatic which has been upgraded from the six-speeder.
You mean that breathless four-pot petrol head is history?
Yes, once and for all. In its place comes the brand’s latest 2.0-litre petrol-turbo (the old one has no turbo) producing 231hp and 192hp in 25i and 20i guises respectively. The 25i, in particular, can go from 0-100kph in a respectable 6.5sec.
Three new diesel variants have been announced, all using a 2.0-litre four-cylinder motor: 231hp for 25d, 190hp for 20d and 150hp for 18d, the last one capable of 22.2kpl.
Although not yet announced, three-pot engines are most likely to appear later on for the 18i petrol and 16d diesel versions.
Will it come to Thailand?
Definitely! Despite its gawky face and underachieving engine in 18i guise, the X1 has emerged as an important model for BMW in Thailand. First, it’s an SUV which many people want. Second, it has prices starting at under 2 million baht. According to sources, the new X1 will be tailored to meet new excise taxation beginning in 2016. There’s a chance that the gap for retail prices between petrol and diesel versions will narrow down, since E20 gasohol tax reductions will be eliminated next year.
That’s because BMW (and Mercedes-Benz) don’t have E85-compatible engines (which will be promoted in the new regime) at the moment. Of course, however, petrol engines are still needed in Thailand where many buyers still don’t buy the diesel notion.