BMW X1 (U11) and iX1

The baby BMW crossover, the X1, is now on its third generation and it also spawned its all-electric equivalent, the iX1. So, what's it all about the all-new X1? Let's have a quick dive into this new model.

2023 BMW X1 and iX1

The third-generation X1 (priced at 41,400 Euros plus additional costs) and the first-ever iX1 (priced at 55,000 Euros plus additional costs) are signs of the times because as crossovers are heavily treated like Hollywood superhero flicks, it looks like there will be a pileup of potential customers who would like to have their hands on this newest version, like it or not.

Beginning with the design, the X1 is nothing more of a crossover equivalent of today's 2-Series Active Tourer because when you take a gander at both of these machines, it's fairly obvious that they both share the same large grilles, which became the new normal for BMW amid the bashing from purists starting to turn away from the brand in favor of Mercedes or Audi. Although the large grille is a classic BMW dirty tactic, the all-new X1 sure loves to play dirty but more with that later on because it's time to observe the interior.

2023 BMW X1 interior

The interior is broadly similar to the one found on the latest 2-Series Active Tourer as well, meaning you are greeted with the new BMW Curved Display that takes centerstage on the driver's side and because it runs on the latest BMW Operating System 8, it has tons of noticeable features, including the rather annoying voice control which works like Alexa. Since the new model removed the storage space beneath the armrest in favor of a floating center console, it's going to be challenging to store your bare necessities. In terms of spacing, it's not half bad compared to the previous model.

2023 BMW iX1

Because it now runs on the new FF platform derived from the latest 1-Series, the third-generation X1 feels more of an improvement compared to the previous X1 but not as cool as what a BMW should because with this, the 2-Series Active Tourer, the 2-Series Gran Coupe, and today's 1-Series, they've been treated like outcasts because of their front-wheel-drive layout that is proven to be treason to the BMW heritage. Even slapping it with the optional xDrive system couldn't help but is still worth being an all-rounder.

In the normal X1, it's offered with a choice of petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid powertrains for the first time in an X1. The X1 xDrive30e variant saw its 1.5L turbocharged engine bolted to a 130kW electric motor, generating a total power output of 326PS, and 477Nm of torque. Mated to a 7-speed Steptronic, it does 0-100kph in 5.7 seconds and has a top speed of 205kph.

The iX1's electric powertrain, meanwhile, features two electric motors and a 68kW Li-ion battery pack, making it capable of producing a total power output of 313PS, 494Nm of torque, a 0-100kph time of 5.6 seconds, and a Japan-ish 180kph top speed. As for the range, it's good for 437km on one full charge and it takes less than an hour to reach 80% battery capacity while charging at a 130kW outlet.

Both the new X1 and the iX1 are armed with the most advanced safety features offered including the Driving Assistant package with AEB, passive cruise control, Parking Assistant, and others.

Although it's slightly an improvement compared to the previous X1, the new model sure knows how to make a statement regarding its controversially-large grille shared from today's 2-Series Active Tourer, but whatever the verdict may be, both the new X1 and the first-ever iX1 are in for a good time for a long time.

Photo: BMW AG