2023 BMW X1 [ZA]

With its robust appearance and functional versatility, the new BMW X1 embodies an authentic experience of freedom and independence in day-to-day driving and on longer journeys. The interior's progressive design and sophisticated ambience, and the much broader selection of standard equipment compared to the outgoing model, serve to underline its deeply embedded premium character.

Initially available in a choice of one petrol and one diesel engine, these models will be followed in early 2023 by the all-electric BMW iX1 xDrive30e. The X1 sDrive18i and sDrive18d are linked to a seven-speed Steptronic transmission with double clutch as standard, and their drive power channelled to the road via the front wheels.

Design: modern surface treatment, increased visual presence and robust looks in unmistakable BMW X model style

The surface treatment, lines and classy exterior design details of the BMW X1 display its Sports Activity Vehicle identity more clearly than ever in its third model generation. Distinctive design features include the powerful proportions, almost square wheel arch contours and the signature BMW X model styling of the front and rear ends.

The upright front end of the new BMW X1 gives it a much greater sense of presence, with slim LED headlights, a large, almost square BMW kidney grille, X-shaped lines radiating out to the sides and eye-catching chrome strips in the lower air intake serving as its defining elements. Adaptive LED headlights with matrix high beam, pulsating turn indicators and variable light distribution are available as an option.

Expressively sculpted surfaces and a long roofline are the distinguishing features of the new model's dynamically stretched silhouette. When viewed from the rear, the slim tailgate window, horizontal lines, striking LED lights and flared wheel arches produce the typical SAV look.

The robust aura of the new BMW X1 can be intensified to great effect with the specific design elements of the standard xLine model, which include stylish underbody protection. The M Sport model also offered as an alternative to base specification places the focus firmly on dynamic driving pleasure with features such as its large cooling air inlets.

All model variants come as standard with 18-inch light-alloy wheels as fitted on xLine and M Sport cars, although these models are also available with 19-inch and - in a first for the BMW X1 - 20-inch wheels. Customers can choose from two solid and ten metallic shades for the exterior paint finish - including a Frozen paint option from BMW Individual for the first time.

Interior: progressive ambience, versatile space

A raised seating position and a progressive premium ambience styled on the BMW iX help to create a distinctive driving experience inside the compact SAV. The key elements of the cabin's redesign are the slender instrument panel, the BMW Curved Display, the "floating" armrest with integral control panel and the smartphone tray with indirect illumination at the front of the centre console.

The newly developed seats are available with the option of the standard Sensatec perforated or Vernasca leather upholstery. Also found on the options list are sport seats, electric seat adjustment with memory function and lumbar support including massage function. Improvements have been made to both acoustic comfort and occupant protection. The integrated passive safety concept now includes a new interaction airbag between the front seats.

The rear compartment of the new BMW X1 includes three full-sized seats offering a notable improvement in seating comfort. The 40:20:40 split rear seat backrests can be folded down or adjusted to a different angle to expand the boot capacity. The fore-and-aft adjustment of the rear seats available as an option for the purely combustion-engined models provides even greater versatility. Boot capacity can be increased from 540 to a maximum of 1,600 litres. The trailer tow hitch available to order as an option for the new BMW X1 is now operated electrically at the touch of a button.

Two-zone automatic climate control, Sport leather steering wheel and BMW Maps as standard

The BMW Maps navigation system, a Sport leather steering wheel, intelligent two-zone automatic climate control and a rain sensor with automatic headlight activation all come as standard in the new generation of the BMW X1, as do four USB-C ports, two 12V power sockets and a far greater number of driver assistance systems compared with the outgoing model.

Restructured equipment packages enable targeted individualisation of the car. The premium character can be turned up another notch by optional features such as the mirror package, ambient lighting, panoramic glass sunroof and Harman Kardon Sound System.

All-rounder offering optimum blend of agility and ride comfort

The market launch line-up comprises the new BMW X1 sDrive18i powered by a 115 kW three-cylinder engine, and the BMW X1 sDrive18d whose four-cylinder diesel unit generates 110 kW.

Irrespective of the drive system fitted, all new BMW X1 models offer well-resolved handling characteristics in any situation and deliver the driving experience for which the brand is renowned. The compact all-rounder's sophisticated chassis technology produces a perfectly harmonious balance between sporty, agile handling on the one hand and long-distance comfort on the other. All the tools required here are provided by a body construction that reduces weight while increasing rigidity, a long wheelbase, wider tracks than the predecessor model, and targeted upgrades to the single-joint spring strut axle at the front and the three-link rear axle.

Near-actuator wheel slip limitation is fitted as standard in the new BMW X1, benefiting both traction and directional stability. Other new features include the integrated braking system and the extra, lift-related damping at the front axle. The optional adaptive M suspension features frequency-selective damping, sport steering and a 15-millimetre drop in ride height.

Wide variety of systems for automated driving and parking

The technological advances made in the new BMW X1 compared with the outgoing model are also evident in the far greater variety of automated driving and parking systems available to use. Standard features include Cruise Control with brake function and the front-collision warning system. The Parking Assistant including Reversing Assist Camera and Reversing Assistant also forms part of the standard equipment roster.

The list of optional features, meanwhile, includes the Steering and Lane Control Assistant, Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function, exit warning function and BMW Head-Up Display, as well as the Surround View, Remote 3D View, BMW Drive Recorder and Remote Theft Recorder functions.

Standard: BMW Operating System 8 and the new BMW iDrive

The new BMW X1 also treats its occupants to the latest-generation BMW iDrive multi-sensory vehicle experience in the form of the standard-fit BMW Live Cockpit Professional Plus. Based on BMW Operating System 8, it comprises the BMW Curved Display with its state-of-the-art graphics and menu structure along with the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant that has now gained additional skills. The fully digital screen grouping is formed by the 10.25-inch information display and the control display with a screen diagonal of 10.7 inches. The new BMW iDrive is geared purposefully to providing intuitive touch and voice control. The broad-based digitalisation of the interior enables the number of physical buttons, controls and switches required for operation to be significantly reduced.

The new My Modes combine individually selectable vehicle settings with matching experience worlds for the interior. The Augmented View function is available as an optional add-on for the cloud-based BMW Maps navigation system. An interior camera makes it possible to take snapshots of the occupants or have images of the interior sent to the customer's smartphone. In addition to this, a Personal eSIM designed for 5G mobile technology, the BMW Digital Key Plus, the BMW ID functionality and smartphone integration using both Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ are also all available in the new BMW X1.