The 2016 BMW X1 Rendered

2016 BMW X1 rendering (Credit: TopSpeed)

BMW’s smallest crossover is getting a big makeover. Thanks to TopSpeed we have a rendering of what the next generation of the BMW X1 will look like when it launches in 2016. The F48 X1 shares a platform with the X3, which is also closely related to the 3 Series.

As you can see from the rendering, the X1 of course retains key design elements that clearly make it a BMW, such as the twin kidney grille, even though it’s shrunk slightly. TopSpeed says that the rendering shows more of an evolutionary development of the X1, instead of some revolutionary design that turns everything on its head. That’s a good thing, because the X1 is rather attractive, so there’s no need to do anything crazy.

The revamped headlights match up more with the current crop of crossovers from BMW. The lower air intakes are bigger, giving off a sportier vibe. The hood is more muscular looking, making it appear shorter.

Front-wheel drive will be available on the 2016 X1, as will all-wheel drive. The setup means there will be more interior space, however that’s at the sacrifice of rear-wheel-drive performance. The powertrain lineup includes a 1.5-liter three-cylinder and the 2.0-liter four-cylinder, both of which are turbocharged. The two engines can be mated to a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic. A plug-in hybrid configuration will join the ranks of the X1. Performance enthusiasts should be all over the X1 M35i, which will pack the B48 engine and over 300 horsepower.

Some might think that it’s a little too soon to revamp the X1 since it hit dealerships just a couple of years ago, but they’d be wrong. The United States was late to the party with the X1, as is the case with far too many cool vehicles. It launched here in 2013, but Europe had the crossover starting in 2009, meaning the current generation is six years old. At least BMW has been able to see that there’s demand for such a vehicle in this market, which could lead to more fun little Bimmers in the future.