A whole new generation
Ever since its introduction, the BMW X1 has changed the way customers look at premium compact SUVs (Sport Utility Vehicles) in the country. The 2013 edition of BMW X1 promises to be more glamorous, mechanically better enhanced, and most importantly, much more practical than before.
Ever since its introduction, the BMW X1 has changed the way customers look at premium compact SUVs (Sport Utility Vehicles) in the country. The 2013 edition of BMW X1 promises to be more glamorous, mechanically better enhanced, and most importantly, much more practical than before.
Exterior and Interior
Into its second generation, the latest avatar of X1 has a refreshed front end, which features integrated fog lamps, a pair of LED headlamp clusters and a bigger kidney grille. Its sides offer integrated turn indicators on the side view mirrors, a set of 17 inch alloy wheels, flared wheel arches and body coloured door handles. No drastic changes have been made to the tail gate besides the fact that it has a pair of refreshed tail lamp clusters.
Talking about the interiors, the biggest improvement is in the quality of plastics used throughout the cabin, which comprises of a two tone leather interior along with elements such as a wooden panel both on the front dash as well as on the doors. Some of the other features on board include elements such as an 8.8 inch high-resolution display, BMW’s iDrive (on board Driver Information System) and a navigation system with the facility of hard drive storage.
Performance
Currently, BMW is only offering a diesel engine on its 2013 edition. Since it is the same engine that was there in the previous generation, the most significant change is in the form of an 8 speed automatic transmission that does well to provide smooth gear transition. The electric power steering means that the vehicle is a bit more convenient to drive than before. Having a much better ground clearance than before, the X1 is now eligible for mild off roading. For better fuel economy, it caters to things like eco pro mode, brake-energy regeneration, and an auto start-stop function. The X1 is available in three models — BMW X1 sDrive20d (R27,90,000), BMW X1 sDrive 20d xLine (R32,50,000), and BMW X1 sDrive 20d Sportline (R32,50,000).
Verdict
The recent upgrades have definitely brought back this premium compact SUV into contention, especially against Audi’s Q3. Its exterior enhancements, interior changes, improved ground clearance and fuel efficiency would definitely attract many customers.