The 2023 BMW X1 has made its debut, and it’s now grown in every dimension compared to the outgoing model. It still rides on a front-wheel drive (FWD) based architecture, which is shared with the 1 Series hatchback and 2 Series “four-door coupe”, but the migration to a new platform has enabled the X1 to not just be bigger than ever, but also more tech-laden than its predecessor.
From the outside, the all-new 2023 BMW X1 has a very upright design that gives it a mini X7 vibe. The kidney grilles are bigger than ever, but thankfully they’re not on the same scale that we see with the all-new 7 Series. The lower front fascia also has a chiseled effect with its chunky front bumpers. The side profile is also very upright, with the roofline now made boxier compared to previous generations. At the rear, the X1 comes with L-shaped LED taillights and a rear fascia that’s also more aggressive than the previous generation model. And then of course, as with every BMW model, there’s an M Sport variant that adds a couple of sporty exterior and handling enhancements.
Inside, the BMW X1 comes with a vastly different dash design that incorporates the brand’s latest iDrive 8 infotainment system. This is housed in a curved glass display, with the main infotainment screen measuring 10.7 inches while the digital gauges measure 10.25 inches. Unfortunately, the X1’s iDrive 8 does not come with the controller knob that iDrive has always been known for. Combined with the climate controls migrating into the touch screen, this is a step in the wrong direction in terms of ergonomics in our opinion.
On the upside, the 2023 BMW X1’s boxier design and increased dimensions pay dividends to its interior space. Head, leg, and shoulder room have increased, while the cargo area is more generous now, though BMW has not given any numbers yet regarding this.
The 2023 BMW X1’s powertrain options include a variety of gasoline and diesel engines, depending on the market. However, for the first time, an all-electric iX1 is being offered. For the Philippine market, the most likely candidate for the X1 will be the sDrive18d, as the case with the current model. This comes with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo diesel engine that produces 150 hp and 360 Nm of torque that’s enough for a 0-100 kph time of 8.9 seconds. This is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, driving the front wheels.
As for the iX1, the sole xDrive30 variant that will be sold comes with a a dual-motor setup that provides 313 hp and 494 Nm of torque. This lets the iX1 sprint from 0-100 kph in just 5.7 seconds, while its 64.7 kWh battery pack gives it a range of up to 438 km when fully charged.
The 2023 BMW X1 will go on sale in Europe and United States before the year ends. A Philippine launch of the all-new X1 will probably happen by the first quarter of 2023.
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