BMW has this week launched its second-generation X1 in Europe. The revised model, which shares underpinnings with the latest MINIs and 2 Series Active Tourer, will land locally from October, with BMW Australia saying we shouldn't expect too much change in pricing and specification.
"The new X1 will stay pretty close to the current model," said BMW Australia's general manager of corporate communications, Lenore Fletcher.
"We're still a month or so away from confirming pricing or specification, but we can say that the line-up and engines will look quite similar to the range we have available now."
Fletcher added that although we can expect both entry-grade front-wheel drive petrol and diesel models to mimic those of the current line-up, all-wheel drive models would see only the new petrol-powered X1 xDrive25i arrive from launch. The diesel-powered X1 xDrive25d is yet to be confirmed for Australia.
The four-strong (E84) X1 range is currently priced from $46,300 (plus on-road costs) and begins with two-wheel drive X1 sDrive18d. This diesel-powered model is tipped to be replaced by the identically badged sDrive18d from launch, the new model offering 110kW (up 5kW) and 330Nm (up 10Nm), and a combined cycle fuel figure of 4.1L/100km (down 0.9L).
The new 18d is also quicker in the 0-100km/h sprint, now taking 9.2sec (down 0.7sec).
The entry-grade diesel will likely be topped by the X1 sDrive20i, expected to be priced close to the current model's $48,300. The new 20i will offer 141kW (up 6kW) and 280Nm (up 10Nm) while reducing combined cycle fuel economy to 5.9L/100km (down 0.9L). The 0-100km/h acceleration time remains unchanged at 7.7sec.
But it's the range-topping xDrive25i that will perhaps add the most excitement to the second-generation X1 line-up.
The four-cylinder MINI JCW-powered SUV makes 170kW and 350Nm and accelerates 0-100km/h in 6.5sec. Although on paper power is down on the current xDrive28i (180kW and 350Nm), the 25i delivers an identical 0-100kmh time and better combined fuel economy at 6.4L/100km (down 0.9L).
The current BMW X1 xDrive28i is priced from $59,900 (plus ORCs).
The new X1 will offer more cargo and passenger space than the outgoing model, and will also bring more technology to the range, including a host of app-based services covering internet connectivity, navigation, infotainment and climate systems.
Safety systems include the usual array of passive and active driver aids, as well as optional lane-keeping assistant and blind-spot monitoring. There's also a large range of paint, upholstery and trim options, and four personalisable (and optional) trim packages: Advantage, M Sport, Sport Line and xLine.
Visit motoring.com.au again soon for our international launch review of the new BMW X1.