New BMW X1 compact Sports Activity Vehicle
BMW started a new segment ten years ago when they launched the X5, which has had critical acclaim worldwide with over 1.5 million units sold. BMW X3 and the BMW X6 then followed and now BMW is introducing a new model called the BMW X1.
Key styling has been taken from the X5 but the concept of a sports activity vehicle is now available in a much smaller and affordable package. Power comes from a choice of three diesel engines and for the first time on a BMW you also have the option of rear-wheel drive (sDrive) or four-wheel drive (xDrive).
The new range – key data
| Model |
Price |
Power |
Torque Nm |
0–62mph Seconds |
Top Speed mph |
Combined |
CO2 Emissions g/km |
|
BMW X1 sDrive18d SE |
£22,660 |
143 |
320 |
9.6 |
124 |
54.3 |
136 |
|
BMW X1 xDrive18d SE |
£23,940 |
143 |
320 |
10.1 |
121 |
49.6 |
150 |
|
BMW X1 sDrive20d SE |
£24,205 |
177 |
350 |
8.1 |
127* |
53.3 |
139 |
|
BMW X1 xDrive20d SE |
£25,510 |
177 |
350 |
8.4 |
127* |
48.7 |
153 |
|
BMW X1 xDrive23d SE |
£29,055 |
204 |
400 |
7.3 |
127* |
44.8 |
167 |
Most BMW X1′s come standard with a six-speed manual gearbox however the xDrive2.3d SE has a six-speed Sport automatic gearbox with gear change paddles on the steering wheel. Apart from the xDrive23d SE, all the models in the range sit nicely under the new tax threshold of CO2 emissions of160g/km. Fuel economy looks good with combined mpg ranging from 44.8 to 54.3 depending on which model you choose.
As you would expect from BMW, all models have the highly recommended BMW EfficientDynamics technology incorporated into the package and for the first time on an X product, Auto Start-Stop has also been introduced (manual cars only). The rest of efficiency attributes include Brake Energy Regeneration, optimised aerodynamics, optimum shift indicator and on-demand use of ancillary units to name just a few.
The styling of the new BMW X1 is sleek, stylish, sporting and practical and the profile of the car doesn’t do justice to the space inside, which comfortably seats five adults plus luggage. All the main controls and dashboard display inside the car are angled towards the driver, another nice touch. You also gets loads of storage space with large door pockets, trays and other storage areas to keep your personal effects.
The BMW X1 goes on sale in the UK on the 24th October 2009 however the sDrive18d and xDrive1.8d variants will not be out until December. Full BMW car leasing pricing is currently available on all other makes and models.
Tags: 160g/km tax threshhold, bmw car leasing, bmw x1, bmw x3, BMW X5, bmw x6, co2, combined mpg

