2024 BMW X1 M35i xDrive with 308bhp and iDrive 9 Infotainment System Unveiled

Almost two months after BMW took the wraps off the new X1 sDrive18i M Sport model, the Bavarian carmaker has now revealed the most powerful version of its entry-level SUV. Dubbed the 2024 X1 M35i xDrive, it receives a more powerful 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder engine with upgraded components, including a stronger crankshaft, an optimised oil supply system for the pistons, and main bearing shells & caps borrowed from the latest generation 6-cylinder engines. In effect, this 4-pot mill cranks out 308bhp of power between 5,750rpm and 6,500rpm and 400Nm of torque between 2,000rpm and 4,500rpm - denoting a significant increase from the previous 238bhp. 

The 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder engine comes mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission with a mechanical limited-slip differential (LSD) built into it, sending the power to all four wheels via BMW's xDrive system. The LSD, according to the carmaker, serves to limit the difference in rotational speed between the front wheels, increasing traction in adverse weather conditions and boosting the car's handling dynamics around corners. 

Also Read: BMW M5 Touring With a Hybrid V8 Teased, Set to Launch in 2024

2024 BMW X1 M35i xDrive: Chassis, Top Speed

With this new set-up, the 2024 BMW X1 M35i xDrive can accelerate from 0 to 96km/h in 5.2 seconds and tops out at 249km/h. The M-badged high-performance version offers M-specific chassis technology integrated with the carmaker's xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system.

That's not all. The X1 M35i also gets optional M Compound brakes with 15.2-inch drilled discs at the front wheels and 13.0-inch discs at the rear. This makes it the first M Performance model to do so. The brake calipers are finished in high-gloss grey and feature the M logo. The carmaker claims that the M Compound brakes promise comfortable braking, superb feel, and stable stopping power under high loads.

The standard equipment of the car includes adjustable M suspension and sport steering. The 2024 BMW X1 M35i xDrive rolls on standard 19-inch as well as 20-inch wheels.   

2024 BMW X1 M35i xDrive: Exterior

Up front, the new X1 M35i xDrive boasts an aggressive exterior with large air intakes, a massive kidney grille with vertical double bars, and LED headlights with cornering lights. The sides of the crossover appear cleaner with prominent side skirt extensions. Other elements include a model-specific roof spoiler, a rear apron with a new diffuser, and quad exhaust pipes, all of which bring out the masculine character of the model.  

2024 BMW X1 M35i xDrive: Cabin

Inside, the new X1 M35i xDrive sports an Alcantara-trimmed instrument panel, an anthracite-coloured roof liner, and optional M sport seats. Most striking is the new iDrive9 infotainment system, which houses a newly designed home screen and an improved menu structure that draws inspiration from consumer electronic devices. 

Also Read: 2023 BMW X1 Review: So Good, But So Un-BMW!

Upon launch, the crossover will become the first BMW product to feature the latest version of BMW's iDrive infotainment system. The 2024 BMW X1 M35i xDrive will go on sale in the international market (the United States) in October this year. It will be available at a starting price of $50,895 (around Rs 41.75 lakh, inclusive of destination and handling fees). Whether this model makes its market entry in India remains to be seen, and if it does, it will be through a CBU route.