An all-new BMW X1 was shown for the very first time today. The smallest member of the BMW X SUV family will be making its way to South Africa before the year is out. Even more interesting is the fact that BMW SA will add an all-electric version early in the new year.

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Under the radar

It seems as though the X1 flies under the radar in SA while its larger siblings, the X3 and X5 seem to get much more attention. However, that is likely to change with the arrival of the all-new BMW X1. The third-generation model seems to be bolder in execution, more confident in appearance, more grown up. 

These impressions are underline by a large grille and strong, squared-off profile with an elongated roofline. All model variants come as standard with 18-inch light-alloy wheels. Customers can choose from two solid and ten metallic shades for the exterior paint finish – including a matt paint option from BMW Individual for the first time.

As expected the newest member of the X family has grown in stature, too. It is longer, taller and wider. BMW has also increased the wheelbase, which should result in more legroom for all occupants. 

Click here to read our BMW X3M Competition driving review.

Upgraded cabin

Part of ‘growing up’ means that the all-new BMW X1 has an upmarket interior and several items added to the standard features list. One of the highlights of the interior is the latest-generation of the BMW iDrive system and curved display. It comprises a screen grouping formed by a 10,25-inch information display ahead of the driver. In addition there is a control display with a screen diagonal of 10,7 inches. 

Standard items include dual-zone automatic climate control, a sport leather steering wheel and BMW maps as standard. Furthermore, there is automatic headlight activation and four USB-C ports and two 12V power sockets.

Engine line-up

BMW SA has confirmed three powertrains for the new range. The BMW X1 sDrive18i has a 1,5-litre three-cylinder turbocharged engine that develops 100 kW/230 N.m. An sDrive18d is powered by a 2,0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel. This engine produces 110 kW/360 N.m. In both cases drive is sent to the front wheels through a seven-speed automatic transmission.

Early next year the iX1 xDrive30 will be added to the range. This variant is an all-electric model that is powered by a 67,4 kWh battery pack. Power is sent to two electric motors, one at each end. Combined output of the system is 230 kW with 494 N.m of torque available from the moment the motors start turning. BMW says that the iX1 xDrive30 has a range of between 413 and 438 km.