BMW X1 Overview

New BMW X1 is considered as the cheapest of the X-breed of BMW models. It is a luxury SUV with spectacular looks. Though 4-cylinder, two litre petrol and diesel engines might not deliver heart racing performance, these are well suited for city and highway driving. Comfort and convenience features have been precisely incorporated in the spacious interiors. As stated earlier, the SUV is attractively priced and might add to worries of other car manufacturers in India.

This six-speed automatic transmission rear wheel drive vehicle comes with leather upholstery and is available in ten vibrant colour options. Accessories include a high fidelity 8-speaker surround sound system, a unique information display for an array of communication systems and a professional BMW radio. Safety and security systems are up class and also include run-flat tyres. It is probably the best looking SUV, which provides a number of choices to suit customer’s sensibilities.

BMW X1 Launch History

New BMW X1 was launched at the end of year in December 2010. Three variants viz. X1 sDrive 18i, X1 sDrive 20d and X1 sDrive 20d Exclusive are launched in as many as ten vibrant colours. These sDrive cars in India are not offered with all wheel drive systems and have a modest 2-litre diesel and petrol engines. Attractively priced between 22.4 lacs to 30.4 lacs, the cars are going to divert a major share of market in BMWs favour.

With a keen interest in Indian market, the company has set up its plant in Chennai which has been operational since 2007. The plant, with a yearly production capacity of 5400 units, has been rolling out BMW 3 Series and BMW 5 Series of sedans in petrol and diesel variants. The new BMW X1 cars run on EU5-compliant petrol and diesel engines, which are complemented by its streamlined all-wheel drive system.

BMW X1 Variants

BMW has launched one petrol and two diesel engine variants of the BMW X1 car in India. Both 2-litre, 4-cylinder engine variants have a six speed automatic transmission and come with a rear wheel drive. The chassis, designing, comfort and safety features remain almost same in X1 sDrive 18i and X1 sDrive 20d with minor changes in infotainment system.  X1 sDrive 20d Exclusive is the highest priced variant and includes a host of improvements.

X1 sDrive 18i

X1 sDrive 18i is a petrol engine variant and comes with exteriors that have been kept more or less the same in all variants. These include body coloured bumpers with Aluminium at ends, Aluminium roof rails and side sills. The interiors include leather upholstery, automatic air conditioning, power sockets and storage spaces throughout the cabin. Airbags, automatic stability control, run flat tyres, ABS and whole lot of safety systems ensure the safeguarding of vehicle and occupants. These systems again remain same in all variants. What X1 sDrive 18i really lacks is an audio system. All it includes is a company radio which might not be something that one expects in a car which comes in 22 lac price range.

X1 sDrive 20d

X1 sDrive 20d is a diesel engine variant, which obviously raises the price barrier. However, it compensates this price difference with improvements in some areas. It includes 8 speaker high fidelity audio system with USB interface and hands free facility. The SUV also has a disengageable air conditioning compressor. The BMW X1 car expectedly has better speed and acceleration and might suit the requirements for long tours very well.

X1 sDrive 20d Exclusive

This high end variant of X1 Cars in India carries the same diesel engine as the X1 sDrive 20d does. However, it is more advanced in its luxury and infotainment features. A panorama roof is provided in the car which comes with sliding window and touch controls. Car's infotainment system includes eight programmable buttons and a large high resolution information display at the front. It also has a hard disc supported system with 12 GB of memory. A comprehensive communication package with Bluetooth applications is also included as a standard feature which helps in answering calls and reading messages while on move. Xenon Lights, headlight washer system, rain sensors and distinct alloy wheels are included in the exteriors. Interiors are also refined with inclusion of different leather upholstery and wooden finish trims.

BMW X1 Pricing

The X1 Series of cars are among the lowest priced cars of BMW in India. All variants are placed in a price bracket of 22.4 lacs to 30.4 lacs which broadly covers the entire range of luxury SUVs in India. The BMW X1 car prices might differ as per state levied taxes and other charges incurred by concerned agencies.

BMW X1 Review and Awards

All the major magazines and car shows in Indian media have complimented the car's arrival. BMW X1 in India is touted as a major market shaker by experts for its competitive pricing. Zigwheels has praised the car for its overall treatment and states in one of its reviews that “...BMW has left no stone unturned in making sure that the X1 lives up to being a BMW in every manner...”. BBC TopGear is also positive in its reviews about the car and states “...Right size, right price, perfect for the urban yuppie...”. Autocar also suggests that it’s very practical to choose it among the available SUVs in India.

BMW X1 Used Car Market

BMW is relatively a new entrant in the Indian automobile market. The company has not forayed into used car market yet and one has to wait before it makes any formal announcements in this direction. Nevertheless, one is free to go through automobile websites and might survey local dealers for availability of any pre-owned BMW model.

BMW X1 Specifications

New BMW X1 is conceptualised as a lifestyle sports activity vehicle and not a hardcore off-roader.  It suits the needs and sensibilities of Indian upper middle class which would like to enjoy the luxury and pride of travelling in a heavy and attractive looking SUV. Hence, the engine and drive quality focuses more on comfort than on power and performance.

Criteria	Specifications
Engine Type	Four-cylinder diesel engine  (X1 sDrive 20d & X1 sDrive 20d Exclusive)	Four-cylinder petrol engine (X1 sDrive 18i)
Cylinders/valves	4 valves per cylinder
Capacity in cc	1995
Stroke/bore in mm	84	90
Max. Output power	177 hp at 6400 rpm	150 hp at 6400 rpm
Max. torque	350 Nm at 1750-3000 rpm	200 Nm at 3600 rpm
Drive	Rear Wheel Drive
Transmission	Six speed automatic transmission

BMW X1 Exteriors

New BMW X1 car is available in ten vibrant colours and has one of the most striking design features in its favour. It definitely appears to be taller and bigger than other X series variants and might attract a lot of gazes while on road.

Exterior Appearance

Defined as an urban crossover in company's leaflets, new X1 car has a range of features that meet the standards of X series. A unique kidney shaped front radiator grille makes an instant impact and so does the use of aluminium in designing of side sills, bumpers and roof rails. Large headlamps with inclusion of Xenon lights in high end variant capture attention. Car's bold waistline and wheel arches provide character to its design. The class and sporty feel gets further substantiated by its alloy wheels. A panorama roof comes as a standard feature in X1 sDrive 20d Exclusive. Dual metallic finish tail pipes, large tail lamps and rear spoiler complete the sporty appeal of car.

Exterior Dimensions

Criteria	Dimensions (common for all variants) in mm
Wheelbase	2760
Overall length	4454
Overall breadth	1798
Over all height	1545
Front overhang	791
Rear overhang	903
Ground clearance	193

BMW X1 Interiors

One does get excited on entering the vehicle which has a premium appeal in its instrumentation and accessories. It’s a BMW and one cannot remain oblivious to its definite charm and appeal.

Interior Appearance

Leather upholstery and leather wrapped three spoke steering wheel are included as a standard feature in all the variants. The gear knob, steering wheel and door handles have a chrome finish. However, the quality and choice of material is further improved in the high end variant. The material in dashboard and other equipment has been carefully selected to suit the interiors.

Interior Comfort

The automatic AC keeps the cabin at standard room temperature at all times. 12 volt power sockets have been provided for charging mobile phones and laptops in the rear centre console, under the armrest and in the luggage compartment. Electric driver seat adjustment facility with memory function helps different users to adjust the seat as per their preference within seconds.

Electrically adjustable rear view mirrors, rain sensors for wipers, headlight washer, power windows, and remote tailgate opener are other features that add to the driving convenience. Cup holders, storage spaces for spectacles and other items are provided under the armrests and within the dashboard. Parking distance control system at the rear provides assistance in parking and prevents ugly scratches on the vehicle.

Interior Dimensions

The car has been recognised for its comfortable and spacious interiors. It has a maximum head room with 1048 mm at the front and 1008 mm at the rear. One does not have to worry about elbow and leg room at any position inside the car. It can comfortably accommodate five adults and might suit the requirements for long tours with ample storage space in the boot.

BMW X1 Fuel Economy

As per company figures, the petrol engine variant of new BMW X1 runs at 11.25 kmpl, while the diesel engine variants provide an efficiency of 15.24 kmpl. These fuel economy figures are achieved without AC under test conditions which might not replicate the ground conditions exactly. Still the performance can be considered acceptable as the engines are especially tuned for mileage and not power. A fuel tank with capacity of above sixty litres ensures that one makes lesser number of stops for refuelling while on a trip.

BMW X1 On-road Drive

It is a different feeling altogether to get seated in a BMW. With a high seating position, one is free to experiment with electric seating controls which might further enhance the driving comfort. The 2 litre diesel engine variants are surely powerful than the petrol engine and surprisingly silent as well. Gear shifting and acceleration is smooth, while cornering is simplified with its effective power steering.

The suspensions are improved and being a SUV, one does not have to worry too much about the potholes. Ride remains silent and well balanced at all speeds, though the petrol engine does get a little unresponsive at higher revs. Braking again is refined and one does not feel any loss of control or discomfort even being hard on brakes. It is probably the dynamics of the car with perfectly balanced front and rear overhangs which add to the stability of vehicle.

BMW X1 Power

X1 sDrive 18i is powered by a 4-cylinder, 2-litre petrol engine that delivers 150 hp at 6400 rpm. The torque of 200 Nm at 3600 rpm can be achieved with this engine. The other two variants share same 4-cylinder, 2-litre diesel engine that provides 177 hp at 6400 rpm. The corresponding torque figures in absence of a turbocharger can reach up to 350 Nm between 1750 and 3000 rpm. The engines are perfect for this large sized vehicle and deliver speed of 120 to 150 kmph.

BMW X1 Acceleration

New BMW X1 cars can reach a top speed of 200 kmph, if tested on highways. The engines are capable of reaching above 100 kmph mark in an impressive 10.4 seconds. This performance seems quite acceptable and proves to be effective considering the states of Indian roads which do not provide enough chances for high speed experience.

BMW X1 Safety and Security

Safety and Security features have not been compromised in any of the BMW X1 variants. The systems include ABS with brake assist, fog lamps, seatbelts and SRS air bags providing comprehensive cover. Apart from these, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) are included as a standard feature in all variants. These systems ensure that vehicle remains firmly grounded at all speeds and does not loose grip, even on slippery roads. A crash sensor disengages the centre lock function and automatically shuts the fuel supply in case vehicle colloids with any kind of obstruction. Run flat indicator, which alerts the driver regarding a slow puncture in the tyres or a flat tyre, has also been included.

BMW X1 Comfort and Convenience

Comfort level gets redefined in BMW X1 which might outperform most of the higher segment sedans with its spacious interiors. A lot of conveniences are provided in the vehicle, however, in the end what matters the most is the seating position. This aspect has been carefully dealt with effective elbow, head and leg rooms at all positions. An automatic air conditioning maintains room temperature level in the cabin. Driver has little to complain as most of the controls are available at fingertips.

The high end variant comes with a range of advancements in luxury. It includes a panorama roof with push button controls. This roof serves its purpose best when one is in hilly terrain or countryside where dust and pollution levels are low. The leather upholstery is available in beige and black shades. Communication package in X1 sDrive 20d includes phone answering and text message receivable systems along with Bluetooth applications.

BMW X1 Wheels

The car has a unique suspension system specially designed to support the large dimensions on Indian roads. Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) work in tandem to maintain the grip and balance on roads. The wheel and tyre specifications are kept similar in all variants; however the alloy wheel style 317 is replaced by style 319 in the highest variant.

Criteria	Remarks
Tyre dimensions front	225/50 R 17 H
Tyre dimensions rear	225/50 R 17 H
Wheel dimensions front	7.5 J x 17 light alloy
Wheel dimensions rear	7.5 J x 17 light alloy

BMW X1 Stereo and Accessories

An eight speaker high fidelity audio system is provided in the BMW X1, excluding the low end variant which comes with company fitted radio. A powerful sub-woofer under the front seat provides lower frequencies creating the bass effect while higher frequency sounds are created by eight speaker system for surround sound.

External devices such as an MP3/4 player, mobile phone or a pen drive can be connected to this system via AUX-IN connection or the USB/audio interface. X1 sDrive 20d Exclusive has a dedicated communication package which further improves the drive experience.

BMW X1 Dealers

The company has been able to extend its reach with as many as 20 authorised dealers spread all over the nation. The company is committed to customer satisfaction and provides unmatched service support for its vehicles. A list of prominent authorised dealers in major metropolitans is given below.

Location	Dealers
Bangalore	Navnit Motors
Chennai	KUN Exclusive
Delhi	Bird Automotive Deutsche Motoren
Kolkata	OSL Prestige
Mumbai	Infinity Cars Navnit Motors

BMW X1 Company Quotes

Dr. Andreas Schaaf (President, BMW India) at the launch of BMW X1 in India in Dec 2010

“…The new BMW X1 is a modern vehicle that for the first time brings premium BMW characteristics into the compact vehicle segment. The new BMW X1 sets a benchmark by bringing together features of a Sports Activity Vehicle with spontaneous flexibility and outstanding fuel economy. The new BMW X1 is the perfect vehicle for customers focusing on areas such as leisure activities and lifestyle in their choice of car..."

BMW X1 Competitor Analysis

2003 was considered as a year of SUVs in India when a whole lot of manufacturers entered in the Indian market with their examples. However, the market remained more or less silent after this upsurge for a long time till the BMW made its entrance. It is considered a major competitor for most of the vehicles in its segment. Given below is a comparison of Honda CRV, Renault Koleos, Chevrolet Captiva and Hyundai Santa Fe with BMW X1.

Chevrolet Captiva comes with a similar 2 litre diesel engine and is a decent option with its four wheel drive. Hyundai Santa Fe also looks very impressive on papers. However, both these cars have to compete with flawless design and elegance of X1's exteriors. Available in ten vibrant colours with metallic and non metallic finish, it wins half of the battle with its looks. Though an objective parameter, looks of a car are often the decisive feature and BMW sure is a winner in this area.

Honda CRV has been known for its world class technology. However, its diesel engine variants have not yet arrived. Moreover, the comfort level is better in BMW X1. Renault Koleos is among the latest entrants in market and has been a point of discussion for some time. It comes with a BOSE surround sound system and enjoys company's best in class warranty up to 80 thousand kilometres. The Renault might not have a great fan following as BMW still its SUV seems quite attractive with all wheel drive and turbocharged diesel engine. The only major concern with Koleos is its very limited sales and service network in India. However, all these compressions seem futile when one gets to know that a new BMW X1 is available in a never before price range in India.

BMW X1 LPG/CNG version Not available till date.

BMW X1 Pros

Classy sporty looks, vibrant colours, decent performance and comfortable interiors work in vehicle's favour. It’s a BMW and is offered in lower price band.

BMW X1 Cons

A limited sales network is probably the single most disadvantage for BMW cars in India. New BMW X1 sDrive series, in absence of all wheel drive and differential locks, might not be considered as a serious contender for off road activities.

BMW X1 Conclusion

A must buy for a car enthusiast in India, BMW X1 is definitely a lifestyle sports activity car. It is perfect for families looking forward to spend time together on long tours. The price and timing of the car is perfect.