BMW leaves nothing to chance when it comes to its lineup of sports/utility vehicles. Unlike other manufacturers that are reducing even the abandonment of this once popular and highly profitable vehicle segment, BMW is introducing its fourth lineup, the X1, an SUV that is smaller, lighter and much more fuel efficient than its predecessor. most SUVs in its class.
By adding a fourth lineup of SUVs, BMW is signaling that it thinks customers are still interested in a vehicle that can get the job done on the road and, if necessary, take it off the road. Based on the same platform that underpins its lineup of 1-series cars, the X1 will be powered by a standard 2.0L I4 petrol engine paired with six-speed manual or automatic transmissions. That fix should help the X1 break the 30-mpg highway barrier, but it could be that a similarly sized diesel has the most appeal to customers, as BMW estimates its 2.0L diesel will hit around 45mpg. on the highway.
Rear or all wheel drive available
Available with rear or four-wheel drive, the X1 seats five passengers and will take over the entry-level SUV market currently occupied by the X3. For its part, the BMW X3 will be moved up slightly and standard equipment levels will be raised accordingly. The X5 and X6 complete BMW’s sport utility vehicle lineup.
Inside, the X1 will be fully equipped with the latest navigation system offered as standard equipment along with a panoramic sunroof, leather seats, first class audio system and all the usual BMW safety features including brake assist; lane departure warning; front, side and side curtain airbags; dynamic brake control; and active head restraints. Priced starting in the upper 30s, a fully equipped BMW X1 will sell for around $50,000, which will be about the same price as the new Audi Q3, its main competitor, albeit slightly higher than the Volkswagen Tiguan. .
Shared styling with the X3 and X5
The X1’s exterior borrows the same styling cues used on the X3 and X5 with BMW’s signature long bonnet and distinctive pointed front end. Customers who have already sold the X3 will appreciate the X1’s oversized doors, as well as its huge tailgate and surprisingly abundant storage area. BMW hopes to not only boost its sales from conquering other brands, but also encourages current bimmer devotees to consider its newest, most fuel-efficient SUV lineup. With an available diesel option, the X1 will appeal to both the customer who wants the practicality of a sport utility vehicle and the fuel efficiency of a powerful yet economical engine.
By adding the X1 to its fleet, BMW hopes this move will help it keep Mercedes for luxury brand supremacy while offering a good option to the Q3, which is quickly winning Audi’s latest offering. Competition between German luxury brands is fierce, which means customers win, as each manufacturer seeks to outdo each other in building the passenger vehicles customers really want.
