BMW SA has just launched a completely new version of the X1

The BMW X1 is no stranger to our shores. Its been out for a while now and BMW SA has just launched a completely new version.

With 3 model derivatives in the xDrive20i, xDrive25i and xDrive 20d available from January 2016, the X drive system is beyond capable across any terrain you could encounter.

Exterior

The new X1 sees a few changes to the exterior especially upfront. A new larger designed grille, larger air vents and a lower valance express the X design while updated LED headlamps finish of the look. In the rear, a redesigned bumper insert and wraparound L shaped tail lamps brings the X1’s design closer to that of its bigger counterparts. The side view also shows tell tale signs that the X1 is being brought into line with its bigger brothers in the X range.

Interior

With the overall dimensions of the vehicle being increased slightly, interior space is given a boost. The new model grows in height compared to the previous incarnation by 53 millimetres, a raised seating position up by 36 millimetres at the front, gives the driver an all round better driving view.

Passenger legroom in the rear has increased by 37 millimetres in standard specification and can be increased by up to 66 millimetres with the optionally adjustable rear seat. The 505-litre boot capacity is 85 litres larger than that of its predecessor and can be increased 201l-litres by dropping the rear seats. The rear seats can also be dropped from the rear hatch without having to open the rear door.

The usual array of BMW’s interior accouterments can be found, air con, USB inputs and 12v charging sockets as well as the iDrive operating system which powers an unbelievable Harmon Kardon speaker system.

Engine and drivetrain

On our test we drove the xDrive 20d and xDrive25i derivatives and while both were incredibly capable I did favour the diesel.

The second gen X1 will see 2 petrol and 3 diesel engines in its line up all of which are four cylinder powerplants. The xDrive 20d runs a 4 cylinder turbo charged motor which delivers 140kW and 400Nm of torgue with CO2 emmissions running at 146g/km while the xDrive25i also runs a 4 cylinder turbo charged lump that delivers 170kW at 350Nm (cO2) 149g/km) both variants were coupled to the 8 speed Steptronic automatic transmission which delivered seamless shifts on and offroad. The xDrive all wheel drive system has been fetteled as well and uses a electro hydraulically controlled multiplate clutch that distributes the power to the front and rear axles as the driving conditions change.

The Drive

Our drive took us along the winding roads and mountain passes of the Garden Route. The Xdrive system really received a workout on the offroad sections that varied from graded gravel roads and loose rock to rocky sections that no luxury crossover should really see, to the smooth flowing sections of the Outeniqua Pass.

The X1 lapped up the kilometres and the only real complaint I have is that in sport mode on the gravel sections it seemed to lurch into and out of corners while the Xdrive worked to keep the vehicle from breaking traction. Switching back in to Comfort mode changed the handling on these sections dramatically and made for a superb drive. Ascents and descents into and out of the beautiful green valleys didn’t phase the X1 and transitioning between tar and gravel was barely noticeable.

Verdict

BMW has hit a home run with the X series ,with over 730 000 units sold the public would agree.
The X1 has brought the luxury, style and capability of the X5 and made it available in a lower segment. With competition in the form of the Mercedes GLA/GLC, Audi Q3 and Jeep Renegade the X1 presents incredible value for money with pricing starting at just R 542 168.


Models and Pricing

X1 xDrive 20i	- R 542 168
X1 xDrive 20d	- R560 168
X1 xDrive 25i	- R 605 475

BMW also offers a 5 year/ 100 000 maintenance plan

The sDrive will only be available when production starts in Jan 2016.

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