The 2 Series Active Tourer was the first ever front-wheel drive model from BMW. Well, this – the second generation X1 – is the other. While the Tourer was introduced in Europe with the aim of conquering new customers, the X1, BMW’s smallest SUV, has been around since 2009. The big leap, in this case then, is going to be even more evident. The new platform can be configured to offer an all-wheel drive option as well for the X1.
The adoption of the Ukl platform, which forms the basis of the complete range of new Minis, besides the Tourer models, provides noteworthy savings for BMW. And the consequent adoption of transversally mounted engines – not to mention the 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine that produces 136bhp in petrol trim and 116bhp in diesel – has made it possible to shorten the car’s bonnet. And while the new X1 has similar dimension to the outgoing model, the interior space increases. Even the overall design balance of the car looks improved in pictures.
The second generation X1 will make its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, and will land at the dealerships a few months later. It’ll also feature the same 2-litre turbo-diesel as the X3, and will even be followed by a hybrid version later on. BMW has also confirmed the all-wheel drive XDrive version with a Haldex clutch.
This next-generation model is expected to be launched in India at the Auto Expo in February next year.
This rendering of the dashboard of the upcoming X1 seemingly takes its cues from the 2 Series Active Tourer, rather than its bigger brother – the X3.
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