2010 BMW X1

2010 BMW X1

The X1 is a compact crossover from BMW and is based on the 3 Series car platform.

It is the fourth addition to the carmakers X range after the X6, X5 and X3. Only marginally smaller than the current X3, the X1 was designed to be pegged under the next generation X3, which will be bigger and more upmarket than the current model.

While the X1 was launched in select international markets in 2009, the crossover was launched in the Middle East in February 2010. Although a 4×4/SUV happy market, the Middle East buyer’s have not shown much liking for smaller SUV’s or crossovers as has been the case in much of Europe. Despite, there has been a flood of smaller, car platform based SUV’s and crossover vehicles that have steadily trickled from a number of brands, including the Japanese. Interestingly enough, the Korean brands have been selling reasonble numbers in this segment.  When the X3 was launched it didn’t face any competition until the Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz GLK came along. Likewise, the X1 too doesn’t have any current adversary in its league. That seems set to change with the launch of the Audi Q3 and Range Rover LRX in 2011. Designed to appeal to a young buyer base, the X1 has an aggressive and purposeful look. The typical kidney grille, dual corona headlights, upright fascia and classic BMW styling characterise the X1. The compact crossover is powered by a choice of two petrol engines; a 141bhp 2.0-litre unit in the xDrive 18i and a 254bhp 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder motor in the xDrive28i. As their names suggest, both versions come with xDrive all-wheel drive as standard. BMW has designed the five-seater X1’s to have dynamic handling, SUV-like practicality, refinement and prestige associated with the brand. Its affordability is also a key attribute which makes it worth a look for buyers who are in the market for a compact crossover but want something more upmarket than a Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4.