2020 BMW X1: First impression

The new 2020 BMW X1 is the updated version of BMW’s current entry-level SUV crossover offering. With its new front-wheel-drive, some are a bit apprehensive if it will be able to deliver the effortless sporty driving experience without compromising practicality. The new BMW X1 will go head to head with contenders, on the flourishing subcompact-luxury-crossover segment, such as the Cadillac XT4, the Jaguar E-Pace, the Lexus UX, and the Volvo XC40.

The X1’s new look

What’s very notable on the new BMW X1 exterior is its larger kidney front grille with vertical chrome details. It might look like a set of two grilles, but it is just a single grille with chrome trims that wrap around it. On either side are dual headlights with LED daytime running lights. Below is a front air dam with muted, barely-there LED fog lights on both sides. The front bumper is now more sculpted with two creases running on either end. On the side are more chrome trim elements on the windows and crease design for better aerodynamics. The rear carries the same new design look with the dual-tone rear bumper, larger dual tailpipes, rear spoiler with LED stop lamp, and shark fin antenna.

According to BMW, the new X1 comes in three new colors: Jucaro Beige, Misano Blue, and Storm Bay; but phased out the lovely Estoril Blue. This BMW crossover rides on a standard set of two-tone 18-inch Y-spoke rims that can be swapped with Jet Black double-spoke units at no added cost. The 19-inch alloy wheels, however, are optional and will cost you extra.

Updated cabin features

The new 2020 BMW X1 specs sheet now comes standard with an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system which was previously optional. This will include a navigation system and Apple CarPlay (no Android Auto, sorry!). On the dashboard are the usual suspects: multi-function steering wheel, center AC vents are under the infotainment system, and new gear shifter at the center. The BMW X1 can comfortably seat four passengers. While a fifth passenger seating is available at the rear, it might feel like a tight squeeze.

To lessen that plastically feel and add some touch of luxury, the door trims, dashboard, center gearbox, and seats are wrapped in synthetic leather with stitching details. There is an optional Luxury package with Dakota leather and interior trim elements for added luxury. Or you can go all-in and avail of the Convenience package which will include: LED foglights, panoramic sunroof, power-folding mirrors, keyless entry, a universal garage-door opener, auto-dimming mirrors, ambient lighting, and satellite radio.

If you want an X1 that screams ‘outdoors’, go for the M Sport package which includes 18-inch wheels with all-season tires or 19-inch wheels with performance tires; the choice of a standard or sport suspension; a sport-tuned transmission; sporty exterior treatments; and matching sports seats and steering wheel. Other stand-alone features that can be had are the sliding and reclining rear seats, a wireless charging pad, and premium audio.

What’s under the hood?

Under the hood, the 2020 X1 is powered by the same 2.0-liter inline-four turbocharged engine that delivers 228 Hp of maximum power and 258 lb-ft of peak torque, which drives either the front wheels in the sDrive28i or all four wheels in the xDrive28i. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that received a new electronic unit rather than the previous mechanical shift lever. According to BMW’s calculation, the X1 can go from zero to 97 km in just 6.3 seconds for the xDrive and 6.6 seconds for the sDrive.

Safety and driver-assist features

For passive and active safety features as well as driver-assist systems, the facelifted BMW X1 comes standard with the following:

• Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Roll Stability Control (RSC)
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
• Driveline Traction Control
• Side Impact Beams
• Airbags: dual-stage driver and passenger front, knee, and seat-mounted side airbags; curtain airbags
• Park Distance Control Front and Rear Parking Sensors
• Frontal Collision Warning with City Collision Mitigation
• Lane Departure Warning
• Tire Specific Low Tire Pressure Warning
• Airbag Occupancy Sensor
• Rear Child Safety Locks
• Back-Up Camera
• Traffic Sign Reader
• Automatic high beams

Other stand-alone options include adaptive cruise control and an automated parking system.

 

Bottom line

If you want to go all in and give the BMW X1 the power and the sporty look that could go from city driving to conquering rough terrains, you can opt for the xDrive28i with the all-wheel-drive and avail of the M sport package. But we think the sDrive28i is powerful enough on its own without the optional add-ons.

Also Read: BMW X3 xDrive30e will be in showrooms come 2020