BMW Unveils The Second-Generation X1

2016 BMW X1 (Credit: BMW)

After a long time of automotive journalists trying to determine what the 2016 BMW X1 will look like, the Germans have finally taken the wraps off and shown the final product. The brand’s smallest “sports activity vehicle” (what others might call a crossover) introduces more than just some aesthetic updates, which various improvements bundled into the vehicle. One of the biggest changes to the X1 is a bigger interior. That translates into more space for people and cargo. Backseat passengers will appreciate the additional 1.5 inches of legroom, which grows to 2.6 inches on models with the adjustable rear seat. BMW says that the X1 now boasts the largest occupant space in its class. Speaking of the backseat, a power-folding feature is available.

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The cargo area has been expanded by over 15 percent, which will hopefully make the BMW X1 a little more practical. An automatic tailgate is included as standard equipment, with a hands-free feature available in the Premium Package. Hopefully, the larger interior won’t make the X1 sluggish to drive. Even though the first generation wasn’t the most utilitarian vehicle on the market, it’s a blast to drive when compared to other options. That fun factor undoubtedly has helped the model capture 61,974 sales in the United States alone.

Power for the xDrive28i will come from a completely new 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo engine. The setup involves a twin scroll turbocharger. Peak output comes in at 228 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 258 lb.-ft. of torque between 1,250 and 4,500 rpm. According to BMW, the vehicle will be able to dash from 0 to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds. Handling should be improved over the first generation of the X1. BWW is rolling out an all-new chassis setup, which is supposed to be more rigid and improves turn-in response. Of course, the jury’s still out about just how much better the new second-generation X1 really is.