The BMW X1 has proved to be a huge success and this latest version builds on that with bold styling, exceptional handling and the introduction of an all-new plug-in hybrid model.
The debut of the new model next year will see the BMW Group stepping up the electrification of its vehicle line-up once again and, by the end of 2019, it will offer 12 electrified models in its product range. The new BMW X1 xDrive25e will be one of those models.
Due to enter production in March 2020, it will be fitted with the latest, fourth-generation BMW PHEV technology used in the BMW i8. The high-voltage batteries used in these models are developed and produced independently by the BMW Group, using lithium-ion cells based on specifications defined by the company.
The battery in the xDrive25e has a gross energy content of 9.7 kWh, and its benefits include a longer operating range. The BMW X1 xDrive25e will be able to cover more than 31 miles on electric power alone. The BMW TwinPower Turbo engine, which generates 125hp and peak torque of 220Nm, will power the front wheels, while the electric drive system with rated output of 95hp and torque of 165Nm will channel its power to the rear wheels. The interplay of the two power sources produces an intelligent, part-electric version of BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive technology.
Drivers can select from three drive modes to suit the situation at hand. The default AUTO eDRIVE strikes a balance of electric/non-electric operation, while MAX eDRIVE maximises electric driving and SAVE BATTERY conserves the high-voltage battery’s charge for later in the journey. The plug-in hybrid system can be charged easily from a conventional plug socket or more rapidly using a BMW Wallbox. The electric charging flap for the BMW X1 xDrive25e is sited on the side panel.
Exterior design
The design of the new BMW X1 strikes a more imposing chord when compared with the outgoing model as evidenced by the new, larger BMW kidney grille – where the two intakes now merge in the middle – and the sharper light iconography of the new standard LED headlights. The front bumper now boasts integral LED foglamps and all model variants feature larger air intakes.
Another highlight can be found at the driver’s-side exterior mirror, which projects a two- tone LED ‘X1’ image when the car is unlocked. This also includes illumination of the door handle recess in order to make getting into and out of the BMW X1 that much simpler by making it easier to spot obstacles such as bumps or puddles. This function is standard on xLine and M Sport models and optional on SE and Sport models.
At the rear, redesigned inlays on the apron are a standard feature and adopt the body colour of the BMW X1, while on Sport models the rear apron’s underbody protection is now finished in High-gloss Black.
Focusing on functionality and comfort
The BMW X1 offers comfort as well as a feeling of spaciousness. The driver and front passenger enjoy freedom of movement, but so too do those in the rear seats. These can be folded down in three sections (40:20:40) as standard, enabling considerable scope for variability – e.g. when it comes to stowing and transporting sports equipment. The rear seats can be adjusted fore and aft, the two sections of the 60:40 split seat surface sliding forward independently by up to 13cm, with the Sliding Rear Seat Bench option. The backrest angle of the rear seats can also be varied through six stages.
The BMW X1 comes with the automatic tailgate operation as standard, which allows it to be opened and closed electrically. Hands-free tailgate opening and closing is also available, courtesy of the Comfort Access option. This allows shopping bags, for example, to be loaded directly into the 505 – 1,550-litre boot without having to open the tailgate using a key or release handle.
New Control Display with voice control and touchscreen operation
The BMW X1 features an updated Navigation system with either an 8.8-inch or the optional 10.25-inch Touch Control Display. This tiling display gives the driver a quick overview of the most important information of the moment.
This latest model incorporates the sixth generation of BMW’s iDrive that introduces touchscreen control for the Control Display alongside the iDrive Controller and optional intelligent voice control. Modern black-panel technology is included as standard in every BMW X1 for the instrument cluster and it comes with a 5.7-inch TFT Info Display.
A further highlight is the optionally available full-colour Head-up Display, which projects all important driving information and navigation/assistance system readouts onto the windscreen and therefore into the driver’s field of view – in high resolution. The BMW X1 is the only vehicle in its segment to offer a system of this kind.
Intelligent connectivity with BMW ConnectedDrive
The BMW Connected App and BMW ConnectedDrive Services offer convenience- enhancing functions to assist the person at the wheel with the task of driving and much more besides.
BMW Connected App creates a digital bridge between the user’s smartphone and their car. It represents the next stage of in-car personalisation and enables the transfer of smartphone content onto the Control Display in the BMW X1, resulting in easier display and operation when inside the car. Coupled with the standard Remote Services, drivers can remotely lock/unlock their vehicle, check the status and locate the last known location through the convenience of their smartphone.
In addition, the BMW Connected app makes it possible to send destinations directly from a smartphone to the X1’s navigation system. Once route guidance has been activated, the standard Real Time Traffic Information shows the traffic situation in real time and helps the driver to react to possible obstructions.
