2023 BMW X1 and iX1 unveiled

The new BMW X1 gets a sharper design, more tech and an all-electric iX1 variant.

An update to the BMW X1 has been long overdue and now that we have finally got one, it looks to be worth the wait. For starters, the new X1 is bigger than its predecessor in almost every metric, it also gets a tech update inside and BMW has also unveiled the first-ever iX1 as an all-electric alternative.

Design-wise, the new X1 is sharper than before. There are L-shaped elements in the headlights and taillights, as well as on the front and rear bumpers. Of course, the BMW kidney grille is larger than before but not as gargantuan as what we’ve seen on some other BMW models. 

Inside, the new X1 gets a completely redesigned layout with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.7-inch infotainment screen sitting high up in the cabin. The X1’s infotainment system is also upgraded to iDrive 8, gets wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and there is an optional 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system on offer too.

Thanks to the new X1 being 43mm taller, 23mm wider and 43mm longer, BMW says it has improved cabin space with more shoulder and elbow room than with the outgoing X1.

There are plenty of powertrain options with the new X1. The petrol options include the X1 sDrive18i with 134bhp and 230Nm and the X1 xDrive23i with 201bhp & 320Nm. The diesel units include the X1 sDrive18d which makes 147.5bhp and 360Nm and finally the X1 xDrive23d producing 194.5bhp and 400Nm. Finally, we have the iX1 xDrive30 with 308bhp and 494Nm and a range up to 438km thanks to a 64.7kWh battery.

Thanks to the success of the BMW X1 in India, we expect this new X1 to make its way here in the coming months. The new X1 will compete against the likes of the Mercedes-Benz GLA and the Volvo XC40 here in India. There’s no news on the iX1 coming here, but with the i4 and iX models already here, BMW could strengthen its EV portfolio in India with the iX1.

Also read:

2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC unveiled

Kia EV6 launched at Rs 59.95 lakh