When the first-generation BMW X1 was at the height of its success, it accounted for one in every ten BMWs that rolled out of new vehicle dealer showrooms. The X1 is the entry-level X model and, for many buyers, it represents a gateway to owning one of the Munich-based manufacturer’s products. To say the second-generation model has been eagerly anticipated is therefore a sizeable understatement.
Underpinned by the same UKL2 platform as the 2 Series Active Tourer, the newcomer is decidedly more robust-looking and (thankfully) rid of the “bumped-up hatchback” association linked with the outgoing model. The new model’s revised proportioning comes courtesy of a stouter nose (made possible by a newly-adopted transverse engine layout) and a 150-mm advance in the positioning of the A-pillars. While the final product is 15 mm shorter than its predecessor, the F48 is nevertheless 53 mm taller, 23 mm wider and has gained 61 mm in front track width. A 90 mm stretch of the new car’s wheelbase allows not only shorter front and rear overhangs but, crucially, frees up additional interior space.
Significantly, the new dimensions allow for larger rear door apertures, making access to the rear that much easier. Rear passenger comfort is improved thanks to increased head- and legroom; the latter can be tailored thanks to fore and aft adjustment of the second row of seats. The new X1 also gains a noteworthy 85 dm3 worth of extra luggage capacity compared with the outgoing model, while a 40:20:40 split in the second-row backrest (with a release catch positioned in the luggage bay) affords a class-leading 1 550 dm3 worth of utility room when required.
A raised (by 36 mm) driving position affords impressive allround visibility and imbues the new X1 with more of an SUV-like feel than its predecessor offered. One negative aspect, however, is the fitment of compact front seats (both in width and cushion length) – it’s a feature unlikely to sit well with larger-than-average South African males, especially when when the X1 needs to travel longer distances.
While much of the neat interior switchgear mimics that of the 2 Series Active Tourer, its installation in the X1 adds considerable substance to the newcomer’s cabin ambience. Although some hard plastics remain, there’s genuine sense of quality and sophistication. Adding further presence to the line-up is a choice of xLine, Sport or M Sport aesthetic option packs. The former includes such “go-anywhere” garb as scuff plates, front and rear, and silver-accented side skirts.
The first consignment of X1 models to arrive in South Africa (in October) will feature a new xDrive all-wheel-drive system. An electro-hydraulic multiplate clutch can send up to 100% of the torque to the rear wheels when slip is detected. In default mode, and like the sDrive models due to follow in January 2016, only the front wheels are driven – a fact unlikely to perturb the average owner in this segment, especially given the X1’s impressive dynamics. Certainly, the new X1 proved more than adept over the Alpine section of our driving route thanks to minimal body roll and a sharp front end. Expect BMW’s Driving Experience Control, including comfort, sport and eco pro settings, to be standard fare on South African models.
Only the top-of-range (for now) xDrive25i was made available on this drive. Boasting 170 kW and 350 N.m of torque available from 1 250 r/min, the four-cylinder TwinPower petrol engine provides effortless go-forward momentum while despite this version’s 1 600 kg kerb mass. More impressive, however, is the slick performance of the new (Aisin-sourced) eight-speed automatic transmission – a ‘box partly credited with improved efficiency throughout the range.
Whereas five years ago BMW used the first X1 to test the waters for the long-term viability of the premium small-SUV, the new version seeks to drive home the Bavarian company’s early advantage. The X1 not only looks the part but, thanks to BMW’s maximisation of this new platform, owners no longer need to lower their voices and mumble the word “utility” when expanding the abbreviation SUV. That said, based on initial forecasts, that mumble may well return when they discuss the list prices for the (altogether improved) X1 models…
Specifications*
Model: BMW xDrive25i
Engine: 2,0-litre, four-cylinder, turbopetrol
Transmission: eight-speed automatic
Power: 170 @ 5 000–6 000 r/min
Torque: 350 @ 1 250–4 500 r/min
0-100 km/h: 6,5 seconds
Fuel consumption: 6,4 L/100 km
CO2: 149 g/km
Top speed: 235 km/h
Price: R606 399
Maintenance plan: 5 years/100 000 km
*According to BMW
Model line-up’s pricing at launch:
1 Series xDrive20i AT R541 757
1 Series xDrive20d AT R559 039
1 Series xDrive25i AT R606 399
