The new X1 is in the wild, but you might not know it from first glance. It is a majorly convincing upgrade from the fairly low-slung and diminutive model. Sure, we loved the way the BMW X1 M Sport handled a track day. But it was quite low-slung and a bit too wagonlike, apparently, for mass consumption. The cab-backward look continues for 2016 in this second-gen model, but the entire visage grows up, out and across.
The new X1 will still carve canyon tarmac, but now looks much more comfortable in rusty trails. The new model is basically a super-chunky xLine look for all North American spec models, as shown here. Just one engine so far in the USA spec — the xDrive28i. This should be joined by many more powertrains over time, including an sDrive choice with just rear-drive, plus mini 2.0-liter 20i and big 35i engine options.
This mono-spec starting point for the all-new X1 means no M Sport yet for this generation. But it will be along in the next year or so.
The similarity to the X3 and X5 in the profile and tail is not exactly repeated up front. At least not in the very-new and very-mod grille, lighting and bumpers. The look is firmly future-BMW, with swoopy yet taut surfaced, fun new creasing, and jumbo center kidneys. Those vertical and large new grilles are quite serious, and give all the next-gen BMW SUVs a 7-series-like look. More body-colored bumper balances the gloss-black insides of the upper and lower grilles, with matte silver details coming as standard.
Pricing is very reasonable, but also takes a leap from the old base prices. $35k is the starting point, with $40k coming up fast. Check out the live configurator links below, plus 75 all-new photos from Copper Canyon, Mexico.
2016 BMW X1 xDrive28i
2016 BMW X1 xDrive28i Copper Canyon, Mexico
2016 BMW X1 Colors
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2016 X1 xDrive28i Standard Features
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2016 BMW X1 Interior
Interior
seating and trim
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8-way power-adjustable front seats with 1-way manual headrests, and driver’s-seat and mirror memory
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SensaTec upholstery
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High-gloss Black trim with Pearl Gloss Chrome highlight
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Anthracite headliner
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Floormats
Comfort and convenience
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Vehicle & Key Memory
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Engine Start/Stop button
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Automatic climate control with micro-filter and air recirculation
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Tilt/telesopic steering wheel column
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Rain-sensing windshield wipers with adjustable speed and Automatic headlight control
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Power front windows with “one-touch” up/down operation and power rear windows
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Front-seat adjustable center armrest
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Cupholders for front and rear seats
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Power tailgate
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Storage package with nets on front seat backrests and increased storage versatility in cargo area
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Additional 12V power sockets
Instrumentation and controls
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3-spoke leather-wrapped multi-function sport steering wheel with controls for audio system, cruise control, and Bluetooth® wireless communication for hands-free mobile phone3
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iDrive system with on-board computer, 6.5″ center screen, Controller and 8 programmable memory buttons
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USB audio connection and hands-free Bluetooth®
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Dynamic Cruise Control4
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Rear-window defroster
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Tire Pressure Monitor
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BMW TeleService
Audio system
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Anti-theft AM/FM stereo CD/MP3 player with Radio Data System (RDS)
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HiFi Sound System with 7 speakers and 205-watt digital amplifier
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Bluetooth® Audio Streaming
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HD Radioâ„¢ with “multicast” FM station reception
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Pre-wiring for SiriusXM® Satellite Radio Tuner
Safety and security
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Head Protection System (HPS), front and rear
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Driver’s and passenger’s front airbag supplemental restraint system (SRS) with advanced technology: dual-threshold, dual-stage deployment; knee airbags; and front-passenger seat sensors designed to prevent unnecessary airbag deployment
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Front-seat-mounted side-impact airbags
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Automatic-locking retractors (ALR) on all passenger-seat safety belts (for installation of child-restraint seats)
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Coded Driveaway Protection
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Front safety belts with automatic pretensioners
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Impact sensor that disengages the fuel pump, automatically unlocks doors, and turns on hazard and interior lights
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Programmable LED Daytime Running Lights
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Anti-theft alarm system
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BMW Assist eCallâ„¢ includes Emergency Request (SOS button) and Enhanced Automatic Collision Notification
BMW Warranty
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BMW Ultimate Service® (for complete details on BMW Ultimate Service, visit bmwusa.com/ultimateservice)
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4-year/50,000-mile New Vehicle/SAV Limited Warranty
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12-year Rust Perforation Limited Warranty
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4-year/Unlimited MileageRoadside Assistance Program
Tom Burkart is the founder and managing editor of Car-Revs-Daily.com, an innovative and rapidly-expanding automotive news magazine.
He holds a Journalism JBA degree from the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Tom currently resides in Charleston, South Carolina with his two amazing dogs, Drake and Tank.
Mr. Burkart is available for all questions and concerns by email Tom(at)car-revs-daily.com.