The BMW X1 is a true trailblazer

As the first premium vehicle of its kind, the BMW X1 is a true trailblazer in the compact segment. After some two-and-a-half years, sales of the compact BMW X model built at BMW Plant in Leipzig and in Tiexi, China have already exceeded 275 000 units. Now this all-round talent emerges with renewed vigour to meet a raft of new challenges. With its specially modified body design, meticulously upgraded interior, comprehensively revised engine portfolio, the new range of BMW Lines and further innovative equipment features, the new BMW X1 delivers an even more intensive experience of the hallmark driving pleasure for which the brand is known.

BMW X1

In parallel with the launch of the new BMW X1, preparations are under way for its US market launch. Further growth impulses emanate from production in China: the new BMW X1 models destined for the Chinese market are being built in the newly opened plant at Tiexi in Shenyang Province.

The successful concept of transferring familiar BMW X features to the compact segment has since led to increased competition in the vehicle class spawned by the BMW X1. What remains uncontested is the BMW X1's leadership position in terms of sportiness and efficiency. This lead is now being extended: the relationship between performance and fuel consumption has been further optimised thanks to engines with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, an eight-speed automatic transmission that is unique in this segment, the Auto Start-Stop function, Brake Energy Regeneration, ECO PRO mode and a wider range of BMW EfficientDynamics technology. Setting a particularly impressive example here is the BMW X1 sDrive20d EfficientDynamics Edition with average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of 4.5 litres per 100 kilometres (62.7 mpg) and CO2 figures of 119 grams per kilometre.

BMW X1

The range of engines for the new BMW X1 comprises three petrol and five diesel units spanning an output range of 85 kW/116 hp to 180 kW/245 hp. Leading the way in the new generation of four-cylinder diesel engines is the 160 kW/218 hp powerplant of the new BMW X1 xDrive25d, featuring BMW TwinPower Turbo technology comprising latest-generation variable sequential turbocharging. Depending on the model variant, power is transferred via brand-typical rear-wheel drive or via the intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system. Either option is available to three of the engine variants of the new BMW X1.

The new BMW X1 also offers innovative individualisation possibilities for the exterior and the interior. Available for the first time, as an alternative to the basic trim level, are the BMW Lines with their exclusive, harmoniously matched design and equipment features. The BMW xLine particularly emphasises the robust versatility of the new BMW X1 while the BMW Sport Line accentuates its agility and dynamics.

BMW X1

Design: new touches highlight its elegance, versatility and sportiness. Typical BMW proportions, expressive, vibrant surfaces and signature BMW X model design cues shape the appearance of the BMW X1. A sweeping bonnet, long wheelbase and set-back passenger compartment emphasise the car's dynamic talent, while attractive light and shade effects hint at its inherent agility. The versatility and sturdiness of a BMW X model are reflected in elements such as the black bordering at the lower edge of the body and the muscular wheel arches.

Above all, the new BMW X1 conveys even more strikingly the powerful stance that also distinguishes BMW's Sports Activity Vehicles. In addition to the inserts in the front and rear apron - reminiscent of an underguard - and the special side skirt covers, the circular foglamps positioned under the headlights add to the hallmark features of a BMW X. Beyond this, the new BMW X1 boasts attractive touches of sporting elegance. At both front and rear, the surfaces painted in body colour now take up a larger area, while the choice of exterior paintwork colours has been augmented by four new variants.

BMW X1

Front view: even more details in the style of a BMW X model.

When viewed from the front, the powerful stance of the new BMW X1 on the road and its aura of quality are now accentuated with even greater intensity. The path of the car's lines, which converge on the licence plate mount from either side of the BMW kidney grille, follows the V-shaped contours of the bonnet, forging downwards and outwards in the lower section of the bumper to create the sweeping "X" familiar from the BMW X models in higher vehicle segments. The new tripartite air intake is likewise a feature shared by all BMW X models.

The car's striking lines go hand in hand with a detailed execution of the body's surface styling, signalling a vivacious sporty character and lending the front apron a particularly premium appearance. The foglamps are now level with an extra crease line that forms a discreet scoop along the upper edge of the lights and continues into the side walls. The increased surface area painted in body colour similarly adds to the car's elegance.

BMW X1

The new-design headlights afford a detailed view of the car's advanced light technology. In the upper area, a chrome-coated accent strip now cuts across the top of the twin circular headlights, while an LED accent light - included as part of the optional xenon light package, complete with LED light rings for the daytime driving lights - ensures the classic BMW focused look.

Side view: characteristic proportions, new exterior mirrors.

The swage line that rises steadily to the rear of the car, a further character line extending the contours of the side glass graphic as it runs rearwards, and powerfully flared wheel arches allow the BMW X1 to project a very distinctive figure side-on. The pronounced side skirts are a signature feature of the BMW X models, while the side direction indicators are now integrated into the new-design exterior mirrors.

Rear view: focused emphasis on wide and powerful stance.

The premium feel of the new BMW X1 is also underlined at the rear by the new subdivision of apron, bumper and underguard, with the repositioned reflectors now also bordered by surfaces painted in body colour. As a result, the black plastic elements are slimmer, while the silver-coloured underguard has a more striking surface structure. Furthermore, the contours of the tail lights featuring LEDs now flow harmoniously into the line of the tailgate handle. A stronger emphasis on the horizontal lines renders the rear broader and sportier in appearance.

Interior: precise lines, high-quality materials, sophisticated colour scheme.

The modifications to the design of the new BMW X1 interior create an even more vivid showcase of the sporty driving pleasure, cutting-edge versatility and premium feel this car provides. The side of the centre console angled towards the driver is now shallower and boasts a particularly high-grade surface quality. This sharply highlights the driver-focused principle of the cockpit design. The panel for the sound and climate system controls now has a high-gloss black surface to match the air vent surround.

The new BMW X1 comes as standard with a storage compartment in the centre of the instrument panel. In vehicles featuring an optional navigation system, this houses the central Control Display for the iDrive operating system. Chrome accents on the side surrounds of the onboard monitor highlight this equipment feature. High-quality electroplated surrounds for the gearshift lever and the centre console cup holder as well as a chrome clip on the headlight switch add the finishing touches to the interior's exclusive ambience.

Engines: wide choice, sporty power curve, outstanding efficiency.

The engine portfolio of the new BMW X1 comprises three petrol and five diesel engines, offering a wider choice than any competitor and making for hallmark BMW sporting performance. Moreover, their high levels of efficiency coupled with comprehensive BMW EfficientDynamics technology endows all models with a further optimised ratio of performance to fuel consumption that is exemplary in the respective competitive field.

The entry-level unit is the 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine in the BMW X1 sDrive18i featuring VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and variable camshaft control on both intake and exhaust side (double VANOS). It has output of 110 kW/150 hp and delivers maximum torque of 200 Newton metres, taking the BMW X1 sDrive18i from standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 9.7 seconds. Average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is 7.7 litres per 100 kilometres (36.7 mpg imp) with CO2 emissions of 180 grams per kilometre.

The two 2.0-litre four-cylinder engines on the other petrol models come with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, a package comprising a twin-scroll turbocharger, High Precision Petrol Direct Injection, VALVETRONIC and double-VANOS. The engine powering the BMW X1 sDrive20i and BMW X1 xDrive20i provides peak output of 135 kW/184 hp and maximum torque of 270 Newton metres, enabling acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.4 (BMW X1 sDrive20i) and 7.8 seconds (BMW X1 xDrive20i) respectively. Average fuel consumption is 6.9 to 7.1 litres (40.9 - 39.8 mpg imp) (BMW X1 sDrive20i) and 7.5 to 7.7 litres per 100 kilometres (37.7 - 36.7 mpg imp) (BMW X1 xDrive20i), with CO2 figures of 162 to 165 g/km and 176 to 179 g/km respectively (figures based on the EU test cycle, dependent on the tyre format selected).

BMW X1

The top-of-the-range engine in the BMW X1 xDrive28i boasts 180 kW/245 hp and 350 Newton metres, taking 6.1 seconds to sprint from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph). Fuel consumption in the EU cycle is 7.7 to 7.8 litres per 100 kilometres (36.7 - 36.2 mpg imp) and CO2 emissions are179 to 182 grams per kilometre (depending on the tyre format selected).

The four-cylinder diesel engines available to the new BMW X1 offer a choice of five output levels and two variants of the BMW TwinPower Turbo technology package. An all-aluminium crankcase, a turbocharger with variable intake geometry, and common-rail direct injection using solenoid injectors are features shared by the 2.0-litre power units for the BMW X1 sDrive16d, BMW X1 sDrive18d, BMW X1 xDrive18d, BMW X1 sDrive20d, BMW X1 xDrive20d and BMW X1 sDrive20d EfficientDynamics Edition models. The new entry-level diesel model, the BMW X1 sDrive16d,has output of 85 kW/116 hp and maximum torque of 260 Newton metres. It reaches the 100 km/h (62 mph) mark from standstill in 11.5 seconds and average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is 4.9 litres per 100 kilometres (57.6 mpg imp) with CO2 emissions of 128 grams per kilometre. For two further models, the four-cylinder diesel provides output of 105 kW/143 hp and peak torque of 320 Newton metres. They manage the zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) dash in 9.6 (BMW X1 sDrive18d) and 9.9 seconds (BMW X1 xDrive18d) with average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of 4.9 and 5.5 litres respectively (57.6 / 51.4 mpg imp) and CO2 figures of 128 and 144 grams per kilometre.

Thanks to their output of 135 kW/184 hp and torque rising to 380 Newton metres, the BMW X1 sDrive20d and BMW X1 xDrive20d achieve the standard sprint in 7.8 and 8.1 seconds respectively. The resulting driving pleasure is coupled with fuel and CO2 figures in the EU test cycle of 4.9 litres (57.6 mpg imp) and 129 grams for the BMW X1 sDrive20d and 5.5 litres per 100 kilometres (51.4 mpg imp) and 145 grams per kilometre for the BMW X1 xDrive20d. Even more impressive is the relationship between sportiness and frugality in the case of the BMW X1 sDrive20d EfficientDynamics Edition. The world's most fuel-efficient premium vehicle of its kind summons up 120 kW/163 hp and maximum torque of likewise 380 Newton metres. The sprint from standstill is accomplished in 8.3 seconds and average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle amounts to 4.5 litres per 100 kilometres (62.8 mpg imp) with CO2 emissions of 119 grams per kilometre.

The new top-line model among the diesels is the BMW X1 xDrive25d. Delivering 160 kW/218 hp and peak torque of 450 Newton metres, its engine presents a further boost in tractive power. Ensuring instantaneous power development that continues all the way into the high rev ranges is its multi-stage charging with variable intake geometry for the smaller of the two turbochargers. Common-rail direct injection uses piezo injectors developing a maximum pressure of 2 000 bar. The BMW X1 xDrive25d sprints from the blocks to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.8 seconds. Average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is 5.9 litres per 100 kilometres (47.9 mpg imp) and CO2 emissions are 154 grams per kilometre.

All engines are combined as standard with newly developed six-speed manual transmissions. Alternatively, all engine variants - with the exception of the BMW X1 sDrive18i, BMW X1 sDrive16d and BMW X1 sDrive20d EfficientDynamics Edition - can be optionally combined with an eight-speed automatic transmission that is unique in this vehicle segment. For the entrylevel petrol model there is the option of a six-speed automatic transmission.

Wide-ranging BMW EfficientDynamics technology, ECO PRO mode marks its debut in the BMW X1.

In line with the enhanced engines and transmissions, the final drive of the new BMW X1 and the power divider of the xDrive all-wheel-drive system likewise boast optimised efficiency. All model variants come equipped with Brake Energy Regeneration. Manual models feature an Optimum Shift Indicator and the Auto Start-Stop function - the latter also in conjunction with the eight-speed automatic transmission. Depending on the model-specific configuration, on-demand operation of ancillary units, a disengageable climate compressor and tyres with reduced rolling resistance are also available.

By means of an optional switch in the centre console control panel below the audio system, ECO PRO mode can now also be activated in the new BMW X1. This supports a relaxed and economy-optimised driving style through targeted adjustments to the accelerator mapping and the shift characteristics of the automatic transmission. Moreover, the output of electrically operated functions such as the seat heating, climate control system and exterior mirror heating are regulated to ensure highly efficient energy management. A special display informs the driver of the extra range gleaned through these measures.

BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system: intelligent, fast and precise for enhanced driving pleasure.

Five of the eight engines available to the new BMW X1 can transfer their power to the road with the help of BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive. The top-of-the-range petrol and diesel engine respectively come with xDrive exclusively. An electronically controlled multi-plate clutch allows the system to transfer power variably to the front and rear wheels, thereby guaranteeing maximum traction, the highest possible safety, outstanding handling and optimal power development regardless of weather or road conditions.

By virtue of being integrated with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), the xDrive control system is able to analyse the driving situation with great precision. It can thus counteract any tendency towards oversteer or understeer by distributing power as required before the driver is even aware of the need. What's more, the collaboration between xDrive and DSC enables the Hill Descent Control function (HDC) for safe passage down an incline at an automatically regulated speed.

State-of-the-art suspension technology for agile and safe handling.

The compelling agility of the new BMW X1 is complemented by superior and precisely controllable driving characteristics. Its high-end suspension technology and advanced stability systems strike an ideal balance between driving dynamics and ride comfort coupled with a high degree of active safety. The all-wheel-drive variants feature a double-joint thrust bar axle at the front, while the BMW X1 sDrive20i, BMW X1 sDrive18i, BMW X1 sDrive20d, BMW X1 sDrive18d and BMW X1 sDrive16d come with a double-joint tie bar axle. Both front axle variants are paired with a five-arm rear axle.

Also contributing to the precise handling of the new BMW X1 are its steering systems with hydraulic or electromechanical power assistance. On the rearwheel- drive variants, steering assistance is provided with great efficiency by an electric motor which is only activated if steering support is actually required or requested by the driver. The motor consumes no power during straightline driving or steady-state cornering. Servotronic speed-sensitive power assistance is optionally available on all models.

The powerful braking system, with maintains its capability even under extreme loads, is supported by the Dynamic Stability Control system (DSC) which comes as standard. This system incorporates, inter alia, the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC) and Dynamic Brake Control (DBC). Further functions include Brake Assist, Fading Compensation and the Brake Drying function. The BMW X1 sDrive20i, BMW X1 xDrive20i, BMW X1 xDrive28i and BMW X1 xDrive25d additionally feature the Brake Standby function and Hill Start Assist.

BMW X1

As an option, the all-wheel-drive model variants can specify the Performance Control system for precisely controlled braking pulses along with torque compensation. This provides a corrective measure against the first signs of understeering on slippery surfaces or in particularly dynamic cornering.

All model variants of the BMW X1 are fitted as standard with 17-inch steel or alloy wheels. The range of optionally available alloys in 17, 18 and - for the first time - 19-inch spec has been further extended.

Premiere in the new BMW X1: the BMW xLine and BMW Sport Line.

So that drivers can endow their new BMW X1 with an individual style based on personal preferences, the BMW Lines have been made available to these models for the first time. The BMW xLine allows the sturdy versatility of the compact BMW X model to be overtly emphasised, comprising as it does underguard elements for the front and rear aprons, side skirt covers, air intake and kidney grille slats in Titanium Silver matt finish, as well as exclusive 18-inch alloys in Y-spoke design. The distinctive charisma of the new BMW X1 is also brought to bear in the interior, starting with entry strips bearing the lettering "BMW xLine", a sports leather steering wheel with multifunction buttons, Ambient Lighting with colours that vary from white through to orange, as well as exclusive interior trim strips in Dark Copper high-gloss and floor mats with colour-matched piping. Another exclusive feature of the BMW xLine are seats in the new Carve variant with hardwearing fabric for the seat surface and the centre section of the seatback and high-grade leather for the side supports. In conjunction with the BMW xLine, Nevada leather upholstery is another option, with the exclusive colour shades Terra and Oyster also used on the door trim panels and the lower section of the dashboard, while the head restraints feature a distinctive embossed "X". As a further option, interior trim in Fineline Bay matt fine wood finish is available exclusively in combination with the BMW xLine.

BMW X1

The stand-out agility and dynamics of the new BMW X1 within the competitive environment can also be highlighted through exclusive and meticulously matched design and equipment features. Cue for the BMW Sport Line, which features a front and rear underguard, side skirt covers, air intakes and kidney grille slats in Black high-gloss, tailpipe finishers in Black Chrome, exclusive 17-inch or - depending on the model - 18-inch light alloys in double-spoke style with bicolour surfaces, and entry strips with "BMW Sport" lettering. In the interior, sport seats upholstered in anthracite fabric with coral red accents, a sports leather steering wheel and gear selector lever with red stitching, interior trim in Black high-gloss finish, floor mats with red piping and Ambient Lighting that can shift in colour from white to orange all contribute to an ambience that is explicitly geared to intensive driving pleasure. Also optionally available are leather sports seats in a choice of two colours, while interior trim strips in Aluminium with accent line are an optional extra exclusive to the BMW Sport Line.

Both BMW Lines are offered as an alternative to the entry-level version. An M Sport package is also available as an option for the new BMW X1. Solid body structure, comprehensive safety equipment.

Like all BMW X models, the new BMW X1 boasts a body with high torsional stiffness which, thanks to intelligent lightweight design, pairs extreme robustness with optimised weight. In the interests of passive safety, the impact forces in the event of an accident are diverted along several load paths, absorbed by precisely defined deformation zones and thus kept away from the stable passenger cell.

As well as front and side airbags for the front seats, standard interior equipment includes side curtain head airbags for both rows of seats, three-point inertia-reel seat belts on all seats, belt latch limiters and belt latch tensioners at the front and ISOFIX child seat mounts in the rear. All restraint systems are controlled by a central electronic system. Immediately after its market launch, the BMW X1 was awarded the maximum 5-star rating in the Euro NCAP crash test.

BMW X1

Interior allows diverse uses with modern functionality.

The new BMW X1 also showcases its versatility when it comes to potential transportation usage. The rear seatback can be split 40 : 20 : 40, with the three sections folding down individually or jointly according to requirements, and can be adjusted in ten stages. The angle of tilt ranges from 31° - a particularly comfortable angle for passengers - all the way to a near-vertical cargo position of 1°. This facility alone means the luggage space can vary between 360 and 480 litres, with a capacity of 420 litres when the rear seatback is in its normal position. Folding all three seat elements down fully creates a virtually flat cargo floor with a loading capacity of 1 350 litres. Two 46-inch golf bags can be stowed widthways or, after folding down the central section of the seatback, lengthwise. The through-loading aperture between the outer rear seats can also be used for two snowboards or four pairs of skis. The passenger compartment offers a wide range of storage spaces and compartments of various sizes, as well as generously sized door pockets. Additional transportation potential is opened up by roof rails (in three colour choices), a storage compartment package, a tow bar with removable ball head, and preparation for a rear carrier rack.

Premium character thanks to comprehensive standard equipment and high-grade options.

The further augmented range of standard equipment on the new BMW X1 guarantees driving enjoyment and comfort at premium car level. The scope includes climate control, electrically adjustable heated exterior mirrors, foglamps, LED tail lights, chrome tailpipe finishers, elasticated straps for the front door pockets, a leather-lined steering wheel, an onboard computer, and a sound system with CD player, AUX-IN connection, five loudspeakers and two-line display showing computer data, telephone numbers and music track titles. The range of optional extras includes, among other features, the navigation system Professional with hard disk and a Harman Kardon Surround Sound System, as well as the options of Comfort Access, Automatic Climate Control, panorama glass roof, automatically dimming exterior and rear-view mirrors, electrically operated seat adjustment, a rain sensor and steering wheel heating.

BMW ConnectedDrive, meanwhile, offers a wide choice of options for optimising the convenience, safety and infotainment functions of the car. Adaptive Headlights with cornering function, available in conjunction with the xenon headlight option, illuminate the road based on the steering angle, speed and yaw rate. The new BMW X1 also offers a rain sensor including automatic driving lights control and High-Beam Assistant. Accurate and safe manoeuvring is facilitated by Park Distance Control and the rear-view camera, which relays its images live to the Control Display of the iDrive operating system. The Cruise Control system with braking function, meanwhile, adjusts not only the engine management and braking but also the gear selection of the optional automatic transmission in order to maintain the driver's pre-selected speed.

BMW Assist, a globally unique mobility service, comprises among other features a telephone information service and the Automatic/Advanced Emergency Call function with automatic detection of the vehicle location. Other innovative technologies allow unlimited Internet use and the integration of the Apple iPhone and other smartphones as well as music players, including the use of Internet-based services. The Apps option enables iPhone users, among other things, to receive Internet radio stations and to display Facebook and Twitter posts on the onboard monitor. Another new function - Real-Time Traffic Information - provides the driver with exceptionally accurate traffic alerts and recommended diversions.