BMW recently unveiled a facelifted version of its entry-level SUV, the X1. The new car replaces the third generation of what has been a favourite amongst customers seeking to buy a German SUV.
The first and the most critical enhancement in the BMW X1 line up is the inclusion of a plug-in hybrid variant. The X1 is currently offered in two powertrain options, namely a2.0-litre twin-turbocharged diesel engine (187.74 hp / 400 Nm) and a 2.0-litre twin-turbocharged petrol engine (189.08 hp / 280 Nm). While these options will be carried forward, the plug-in hybrid powertrain will be made available in a 1.5 litre 3-cylinder petrol engine configuration that makes 124.7 hp / 219.6 Nm by itself and powers all four wheels. The said plug-in setup comprises of an electric motor capable of producing 95.3hp / 151.8Nm by deriving power from a 9.7 kWh battery pack. The car gets an electric driving range of 49.8 km.
The other changes are mainly in terms of styling, with the X1 taking design cues from its elder siblings, namely the X5 and X7. The twin kidney grille is now an expansive unit and is embellished heavily in chrome. The headlights are all-LED units, with sharper styling and the round fog lamps make way for sleek LED strips. The front bumper has been redesigned too, incorporating larger air intakes. Towards the rear, the tail lights are sleek all LED units, and the exhaust pipe becomes more conspicuous by an increase in diameter. Overall, the car gets new colours and wheel options to choose from. The M Sport variant includes larger discs for better braking, with contrast coloured callipers.
On the inside, not many changes have been made, except the available number of options for upholstery have increased. The car now comes with a 6.5-inch touch screen in the entry-level Expedition trim, and an 8.8-inch touchscreen on the x-Line and M Sport trims for infotainment purposes. The choice of materials being used has also been updated to improve the overall customer appeal.
The plug-in hybrid variant of the X1 is slated to launch in 2020. The car goes up against the likes of the Mini Cooper Countryman, Volvo XC40 and the Audi Q3. x
