Expected for release in the US in the fall of 2012, the 2013 BMW X1 extends the already successful line of BMW compact crossover SUVs. Sized slightly smaller than the X3, the vehicle will be positioned to compete with the Acura RDX and the Range Rover Evoque. The vehicle will also be positioned to compete with the Audi Q3, which is expected to be released at around the same time.
The BMW X1 is the only crossover SUV vehicle that BMW has released with entry-level rearwheel drive. The vehicle looks somewhat unique with its elongated hood and boxy windshield. The car also has a large amount of plastic that is unpainted; there for styling purposes. Turn signals are featured in the exterior mirrors and the headlights are more refined. The car comes in numerous vibrant colors that make it seem like it was designed for youthful sports lovers. Featuring BMWs iconic kidney grille, the LED accent lights that are placed within the headlights give the vehicle a particularly refined and focused look. You can also opt for an optional xenon package complete with LED lighting rings.
Looking more like a hatchback than an SUV, the car is very compact. The entry-level model will be expected to be powered by a 240 hp to leader four-cylinder engine. The estimated cost of this vehicle is around $31,500. For an additional $1700, the X1 will also be released in the all-wheel-drive version that is more customary of BMW SUVs. Although the all-wheel-drive system is much appreciated, BMW itself has stated that the rearwheel drive system will be more economical in terms of running costs. The highest tier will be powered by 300 hp 3 L six cylinder engine and will cost approximately $40,000. The high precision direct petrol injection and ValveTronic variable valve technology that BMW has patented to enhance the performance of the engine a great deal. Although both engines are sent from a single turbo, BMW still insists on using its somewhat misleading “TwinPower” terminology. With a focus on cost savings, the 2 L four cylinder engine is equipped with a stop-start system that is in place to save gas. The car also has brake energy regeneration technology and ancillary units that can be operated on demand for a good combination of performance and fuel economy. The lowest tier, the 20D EfficientDynamics has the best fuel economy in spite of its slightly lower performance. As of now, there are no specs as to how much the vehicle will be able to do to the gallon. In addition, all vehicles will be featured with an eight speed automatic transmission as opposed to the iconic six speed manual transmission that BMW is famous for having perfected.
As the only BMW SUV that is not currently made in the US, the X1 can definitely be considered a foreigner that is seeking acceptance on new turf. Having been successfully released in Canada, the car quickly gained recognition and popularity. BMW can only hope for the best and hope to dominate the US market with this piece of work before other German vehicles hit the market.
